Mecosta County, Michigan
Encyclopedia
Mecosta County is a county in the U.S. state
of Michigan
. The county is named after Chief Mecosta, the leader of the Potawatomi
Native American
tribe that once traveled the local waterways in search of fish and game. Chief Mecosta was one of the signers the Treaty of Washington
in 1836. The easily navigated waterways soon led to a boom in lumber industry growth. Workers settled the area in 1851, the county was officially settled and the government officially organized in 1859. Mecosta County is home to over 100 lakes, rivers, and streams with the Muskegon River
winding its way through the county seat and largest city Big Rapids
(originally named Leonard).
As of the 2010 census, the population was 42,798. The county seat
is Big Rapids
. Mecosta County was set off on April 1, 1840, but remained attached for administrative purposes to Kent County
until 1857, when it was attached to Newaygo County
. County government was organized on February 11, 1859.
The Surveyor General approved the United States survey of Mecosta County on February 22, 1839, and the State Legislature established the county boundaries on April 1, 1840.
In 1852 John Davis purchased 160 acre (0.6474976 km²) in Mecosta Township and John Parish purchased 57 acres (230,671 m²) in Big Rapids. They were the first two permanent county residents. On July 20, 1852, the first family to reside in the county, William and Margaret Brockway and their two children moved into a logging shanty on Mitchell Creek. On February 12, 1853 Alice Victoria Brockway was born to the couple. Alice was the first white child born in the county. In the spring of 1853 the Brockway'ís moved to a 200 acre (0.809372 km²) farm in Aetna Township.
In March 1854 Zerah and George French and nine members of their family moved to a shanty close to Mitchell Creek and the Muskegon River. Zerah and George French are considered the co-founders of Big Rapids. In the spring of 1855 James and Laura Montague and their children became the third family to settle in the county. Their 160 acre (0.6474976 km²) farm in Green Township was located where 19 Mile Road intersects the west bank of the Muskegon River.
The organization of Leonard (Big Rapids) Township and Green Township was authorized in February 1858. On April 5, 1858 the first township elections were held and Jesse Shaw was elected supervisor of Leonard Township and Jesse A. Barker was elected supervisor of Green Township. On February 11, 1859 the State Legislature authorized the organization of Mecosta County and established the Village of Leonard as the county seat. The first county elections were held on April 4th and the following county officials were elected: Orrin Stevens, Clerk and Register of Deeds; Alfred L. Clark, Sheriff; Charles Shafer, Treasurer; Jesse A. Barker, Judge of Probate; and Augustine N. Williams Surveyor. Mr. William T. Howell of Newaygo was appointed Prosecuting Attorney. On May 2nd Luther Cobb and Jesse A. Barker convened the first meeting of the Board of Supervisors and Jesse A. Barker was chosen chairman. The population of Mecosta County was 671 inhabitants in 1860.
The first issue of the Big Rapids Pioneer, a five-column folio, was printed on April 17, 1862. Charlie Gay was the proprietor, owner, and co-editor with Ceylon C. Fuller. The paper was under the same management for nearly 22 years and 140 years later the paper is still being published.
The plat for the Village of Big Rapids was recorded on November 3, 1859 and the plat for French's addition (Glen Elm) was recorded on May 9, 1860. The State Legislature authorized the incorporation of the City of Big Rapids in April 1869. The first city elections were held on April 19, 1869 at which the following officials were elected: George F. Stearns, Mayor; Charlie Gay, Recorder; W. Irving Latimer, Treasurer; and William Van Loo, Supervisor. Mecosta County had 5,642 residents in 1870.
The Grand Rapids and Indiana
was the first railroad to enter Mecosta County. In June 1869 the GR&I railroad crossed the Little Muskegon River and the Village of Morley was created. Construction of the next section of track to the Village of Paris started in late July 1869 and the Village of Stanwood came into existence. The GR&I reached the city limits of Big Rapids on June 20, 1870 and the Village of Paris on July 1, 1870. Construction of the GR&I continued for several years until the line reached Petoskey
in December 1873.
Early county prisoners were housed in the County Sheriff's private house or a local hotel or the Kent County jail or the Newaygo
County jail. In 1862 county residents decided not to erect a county jail. The first county jail was erected in the summer of 1868. This jail was situated in the same place where the Old Historic Jail built in 1893 is presently located on Stewart Street. Construction for the present county jail was completed in 1965. This jail was renovated in 1986. The Mecosta County Board of Commissioners approved another jail renovation & expansion in 2000 with scheduled completion in 2001.
The 1880 census revealed that Mecosta County had a population of 13,973. In the early 1880s, rented county offices were located in two downtown buildings near the corner of Elm and Michigan. In 1883 the Board of Supervisors submitted to the voters the proposition to authorize a two-year tax for the purpose of erecting a county courthouse. County voters passed the courthouse tax issue in April 1884. Construction on the first courthouse began in 1885 and was completed in 1886. A ground breaking ceremony for the present Mecosta County Building (second courthouse) occurred on April 8, 1969. Construction of the Mecosta County Building was completed in late August 1970 and a dedication ceremony was held on November 7, 1970.
In the early 1900’s water power harnessed by hydro-electric dams became the energy base for the manufacturing of furniture, and other wood products. The extraction of bedrock deposits of oil, gas, glacial sand and gravel soon became important economic activities. Although logging activities dominated early history, health services and education have become more significant and enduring forces in shaping the community. Mecosta County has grown in population through the years to over 42,000 with a wealth of opportunity in industry, education, and small town country living.
Mecosta County was first settled by African Americans in the 1860’s when James Guy obtained 160 acre (0.6474976 km²) in Wheatland Township, with a deed signed by Abraham Lincoln. The Homestead Act of 1962 allowed each settler 160 acre (0.6474976 km²), resulting in African Americans owning 1392 acres (5.6 km²) in the area where Remus sits today. They were woodsmen and farmers who established schools and churches in their community. Referred to as the “Old Settlers”, a reunion is held every year in the Remus area to celebrate those that originally settled here.
Woodbridge N. Ferris, who later became a Michigan Governor, established Ferris Industrial School
in 1884 in Big Rapids. The 600 acres (2.4 km²) school became Ferris Institute, Ferris State College, and is currently home of the Bulldogs and Ferris State University. Before his death in 1928, Ferris had trained 50,000 students and attained a yearly enrollment of 1,800. Currently, enrollment is over 14,000.
The tourist industry within the area has had steady growth and is now an important source of income while development opportunities continue to exist. With Mecosta County’s numerous lakes, streams and rivers there are limitless opportunities for water and fishing activities. Play our golf courses, bike our trails and experience the fun of the outdoors with family and friends. Mecosta County has grown in population through the years to over 42,000, with a wealth of opportunity in industry, education, and small town country living. Come and experience Mecosta County with its small town charm and friendly atmosphere.
of 2000, there were 40,553 people, 14,915 households, and 9,888 families residing in the county. The population density
was 73 people per square mile (28/km²). There were 19,593 housing units at an average density of 35 per square mile (14/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 92.68% White
, 3.60% Black
or African American
, 0.64% Native American
, 0.87% Asian
, 0.04% Pacific Islander
, 0.37% from other races
, and 1.79% from two or more races. 1.28% of the population were Hispanic
or Latino
of any race. 25.5% were of German
, 10.8% English
, 9.8% American
, 9.2% Irish
and 5.3% Polish
ancestry according to Census 2000. 95.9% spoke English
, 1.7% Spanish
and 1.1% German
as their first language.
There were 14,915 households out of which 29.10% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.30% were married couples
living together, 9.30% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.70% were non-families. 24.50% of all households were made up of individuals and 8.90% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 2.95.
In the county the population was spread out with 22.50% under the age of 18, 19.80% from 18 to 24, 23.00% from 25 to 44, 21.50% from 45 to 64, and 13.20% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females there were 102.80 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.20 males.
The median income for a household in the county was $33,849, and the median income for a family was $40,465. Males had a median income of $32,127 versus $22,467 for females. The per capita income
for the county was $16,372. About 9.60% of families and 16.10% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.60% of those under age 18 and 7.60% of those age 65 or over.
major local courts, keeps files of deeds and mortgages, maintains vital records, administers
public health
regulations, and participates with the state in the provision of welfare and
other social services. The county board of commissioners
controls the
budget but has only limited authority to make laws or ordinances. In Michigan, most local
government functions — police and fire, building and zoning, tax assessment, street
maintenance, etc. — are the responsibility of individual cities and townships.
(information as of January, 2011)
Villages
Unincorporated
Townships
U.S. state
A U.S. state is any one of the 50 federated states of the United States of America that share sovereignty with the federal government. Because of this shared sovereignty, an American is a citizen both of the federal entity and of his or her state of domicile. Four states use the official title of...
of Michigan
Michigan
Michigan is a U.S. state located in the Great Lakes Region of the United States of America. The name Michigan is the French form of the Ojibwa word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake"....
. The county is named after Chief Mecosta, the leader of the Potawatomi
Potawatomi
The Potawatomi are a Native American people of the upper Mississippi River region. They traditionally speak the Potawatomi language, a member of the Algonquian family. In the Potawatomi language, they generally call themselves Bodéwadmi, a name that means "keepers of the fire" and that was applied...
Native American
Indigenous peoples of the Americas
The indigenous peoples of the Americas are the pre-Columbian inhabitants of North and South America, their descendants and other ethnic groups who are identified with those peoples. Indigenous peoples are known in Canada as Aboriginal peoples, and in the United States as Native Americans...
tribe that once traveled the local waterways in search of fish and game. Chief Mecosta was one of the signers the Treaty of Washington
Treaty of Washington (1836)
The Treaty of Washington is a treaty between the United States and representatives of the Ottawa and Chippewa nations of Native Americans. With this treaty, the tribes ceded an area of approximately 13,837,207 acres in the northwest portion of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan and the eastern...
in 1836. The easily navigated waterways soon led to a boom in lumber industry growth. Workers settled the area in 1851, the county was officially settled and the government officially organized in 1859. Mecosta County is home to over 100 lakes, rivers, and streams with the Muskegon River
Muskegon River
The Muskegon River is a river in the western portion of the lower peninsula of the U.S. state of Michigan. The river has its headwaters in Houghton Lake in Roscommon County, flowing out of the North Bay into neighboring Missaukee County. From there it flows mostly southwest to Muskegon, Michigan,...
winding its way through the county seat and largest city Big Rapids
Big Rapids, Michigan
Big Rapids is a city in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the city population was 10,849. It is the county seat of Mecosta County. The city is located within Big Rapids Township, but is politically independent.-Geography:...
(originally named Leonard).
As of the 2010 census, the population was 42,798. The county seat
County seat
A county seat is an administrative center, or seat of government, for a county or civil parish. The term is primarily used in the United States....
is Big Rapids
Big Rapids, Michigan
Big Rapids is a city in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the city population was 10,849. It is the county seat of Mecosta County. The city is located within Big Rapids Township, but is politically independent.-Geography:...
. Mecosta County was set off on April 1, 1840, but remained attached for administrative purposes to Kent County
Kent County, Michigan
-Air Service:*Commercial air service to Grand Rapids is provided by Gerald R. Ford International Airport . Previously named Kent County International Airport, it holds Grand Rapids' mark in modern history with the United States' first regularly scheduled airline service, beginning July 31, 1926,...
until 1857, when it was attached to Newaygo County
Newaygo County, Michigan
Newaygo County is a county in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is part of the Grand Rapids–Wyoming, MI, Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2010 census, the population was 48,460. The county seat is White Cloud. Newaygo County was either named for an Ojibwe leader who signed the Saginaw...
. County government was organized on February 11, 1859.
History
Information Compiled by Jim WoodThe Surveyor General approved the United States survey of Mecosta County on February 22, 1839, and the State Legislature established the county boundaries on April 1, 1840.
In 1852 John Davis purchased 160 acre (0.6474976 km²) in Mecosta Township and John Parish purchased 57 acres (230,671 m²) in Big Rapids. They were the first two permanent county residents. On July 20, 1852, the first family to reside in the county, William and Margaret Brockway and their two children moved into a logging shanty on Mitchell Creek. On February 12, 1853 Alice Victoria Brockway was born to the couple. Alice was the first white child born in the county. In the spring of 1853 the Brockway'ís moved to a 200 acre (0.809372 km²) farm in Aetna Township.
In March 1854 Zerah and George French and nine members of their family moved to a shanty close to Mitchell Creek and the Muskegon River. Zerah and George French are considered the co-founders of Big Rapids. In the spring of 1855 James and Laura Montague and their children became the third family to settle in the county. Their 160 acre (0.6474976 km²) farm in Green Township was located where 19 Mile Road intersects the west bank of the Muskegon River.
The organization of Leonard (Big Rapids) Township and Green Township was authorized in February 1858. On April 5, 1858 the first township elections were held and Jesse Shaw was elected supervisor of Leonard Township and Jesse A. Barker was elected supervisor of Green Township. On February 11, 1859 the State Legislature authorized the organization of Mecosta County and established the Village of Leonard as the county seat. The first county elections were held on April 4th and the following county officials were elected: Orrin Stevens, Clerk and Register of Deeds; Alfred L. Clark, Sheriff; Charles Shafer, Treasurer; Jesse A. Barker, Judge of Probate; and Augustine N. Williams Surveyor. Mr. William T. Howell of Newaygo was appointed Prosecuting Attorney. On May 2nd Luther Cobb and Jesse A. Barker convened the first meeting of the Board of Supervisors and Jesse A. Barker was chosen chairman. The population of Mecosta County was 671 inhabitants in 1860.
The first issue of the Big Rapids Pioneer, a five-column folio, was printed on April 17, 1862. Charlie Gay was the proprietor, owner, and co-editor with Ceylon C. Fuller. The paper was under the same management for nearly 22 years and 140 years later the paper is still being published.
The plat for the Village of Big Rapids was recorded on November 3, 1859 and the plat for French's addition (Glen Elm) was recorded on May 9, 1860. The State Legislature authorized the incorporation of the City of Big Rapids in April 1869. The first city elections were held on April 19, 1869 at which the following officials were elected: George F. Stearns, Mayor; Charlie Gay, Recorder; W. Irving Latimer, Treasurer; and William Van Loo, Supervisor. Mecosta County had 5,642 residents in 1870.
The Grand Rapids and Indiana
Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad
The Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad at its height provided passenger and freight railroad services between Cincinnati, Ohio and the Straits of Mackinac in Michigan, USA...
was the first railroad to enter Mecosta County. In June 1869 the GR&I railroad crossed the Little Muskegon River and the Village of Morley was created. Construction of the next section of track to the Village of Paris started in late July 1869 and the Village of Stanwood came into existence. The GR&I reached the city limits of Big Rapids on June 20, 1870 and the Village of Paris on July 1, 1870. Construction of the GR&I continued for several years until the line reached Petoskey
Petoskey, Michigan
Petoskey is a city and coastal resort community in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the city population was 6,080. It is the county seat of Emmet County....
in December 1873.
Early county prisoners were housed in the County Sheriff's private house or a local hotel or the Kent County jail or the Newaygo
Newaygo County, Michigan
Newaygo County is a county in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is part of the Grand Rapids–Wyoming, MI, Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2010 census, the population was 48,460. The county seat is White Cloud. Newaygo County was either named for an Ojibwe leader who signed the Saginaw...
County jail. In 1862 county residents decided not to erect a county jail. The first county jail was erected in the summer of 1868. This jail was situated in the same place where the Old Historic Jail built in 1893 is presently located on Stewart Street. Construction for the present county jail was completed in 1965. This jail was renovated in 1986. The Mecosta County Board of Commissioners approved another jail renovation & expansion in 2000 with scheduled completion in 2001.
The 1880 census revealed that Mecosta County had a population of 13,973. In the early 1880s, rented county offices were located in two downtown buildings near the corner of Elm and Michigan. In 1883 the Board of Supervisors submitted to the voters the proposition to authorize a two-year tax for the purpose of erecting a county courthouse. County voters passed the courthouse tax issue in April 1884. Construction on the first courthouse began in 1885 and was completed in 1886. A ground breaking ceremony for the present Mecosta County Building (second courthouse) occurred on April 8, 1969. Construction of the Mecosta County Building was completed in late August 1970 and a dedication ceremony was held on November 7, 1970.
In the early 1900’s water power harnessed by hydro-electric dams became the energy base for the manufacturing of furniture, and other wood products. The extraction of bedrock deposits of oil, gas, glacial sand and gravel soon became important economic activities. Although logging activities dominated early history, health services and education have become more significant and enduring forces in shaping the community. Mecosta County has grown in population through the years to over 42,000 with a wealth of opportunity in industry, education, and small town country living.
Mecosta County was first settled by African Americans in the 1860’s when James Guy obtained 160 acre (0.6474976 km²) in Wheatland Township, with a deed signed by Abraham Lincoln. The Homestead Act of 1962 allowed each settler 160 acre (0.6474976 km²), resulting in African Americans owning 1392 acres (5.6 km²) in the area where Remus sits today. They were woodsmen and farmers who established schools and churches in their community. Referred to as the “Old Settlers”, a reunion is held every year in the Remus area to celebrate those that originally settled here.
Woodbridge N. Ferris, who later became a Michigan Governor, established Ferris Industrial School
Ferris State University
Ferris State University is a public university with its main campus in Big Rapids, Michigan, USA. Founded in 1884 as the Big Rapids Industrial School by Woodbridge Nathan Ferris, an educator from New England who later served as governor of the State of Michigan and finally in the US Senate where...
in 1884 in Big Rapids. The 600 acres (2.4 km²) school became Ferris Institute, Ferris State College, and is currently home of the Bulldogs and Ferris State University. Before his death in 1928, Ferris had trained 50,000 students and attained a yearly enrollment of 1,800. Currently, enrollment is over 14,000.
The tourist industry within the area has had steady growth and is now an important source of income while development opportunities continue to exist. With Mecosta County’s numerous lakes, streams and rivers there are limitless opportunities for water and fishing activities. Play our golf courses, bike our trails and experience the fun of the outdoors with family and friends. Mecosta County has grown in population through the years to over 42,000, with a wealth of opportunity in industry, education, and small town country living. Come and experience Mecosta County with its small town charm and friendly atmosphere.
Demographics
As of the censusCensus
A census is the procedure of systematically acquiring and recording information about the members of a given population. It is a regularly occurring and official count of a particular population. The term is used mostly in connection with national population and housing censuses; other common...
of 2000, there were 40,553 people, 14,915 households, and 9,888 families residing in the county. The population density
Population density
Population density is a measurement of population per unit area or unit volume. It is frequently applied to living organisms, and particularly to humans...
was 73 people per square mile (28/km²). There were 19,593 housing units at an average density of 35 per square mile (14/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 92.68% White
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, 3.60% Black
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
or African American
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, 0.64% Native American
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, 0.87% Asian
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, 0.04% Pacific Islander
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, 0.37% from other races
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, and 1.79% from two or more races. 1.28% of the population were Hispanic
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
or Latino
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
of any race. 25.5% were of German
Germans
The Germans are a Germanic ethnic group native to Central Europe. The English term Germans has referred to the German-speaking population of the Holy Roman Empire since the Late Middle Ages....
, 10.8% English
English people
The English are a nation and ethnic group native to England, who speak English. The English identity is of early mediaeval origin, when they were known in Old English as the Anglecynn. England is now a country of the United Kingdom, and the majority of English people in England are British Citizens...
, 9.8% American
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
, 9.2% Irish
Irish people
The Irish people are an ethnic group who originate in Ireland, an island in northwestern Europe. Ireland has been populated for around 9,000 years , with the Irish people's earliest ancestors recorded having legends of being descended from groups such as the Nemedians, Fomorians, Fir Bolg, Tuatha...
and 5.3% Polish
Poles
thumb|right|180px|The state flag of [[Poland]] as used by Polish government and diplomatic authoritiesThe Polish people, or Poles , are a nation indigenous to Poland. They are united by the Polish language, which belongs to the historical Lechitic subgroup of West Slavic languages of Central Europe...
ancestry according to Census 2000. 95.9% spoke English
English language
English is a West Germanic language that arose in the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of England and spread into what was to become south-east Scotland under the influence of the Anglian medieval kingdom of Northumbria...
, 1.7% Spanish
Spanish language
Spanish , also known as Castilian , is a Romance language in the Ibero-Romance group that evolved from several languages and dialects in central-northern Iberia around the 9th century and gradually spread with the expansion of the Kingdom of Castile into central and southern Iberia during the...
and 1.1% German
German language
German is a West Germanic language, related to and classified alongside English and Dutch. With an estimated 90 – 98 million native speakers, German is one of the world's major languages and is the most widely-spoken first language in the European Union....
as their first language.
There were 14,915 households out of which 29.10% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.30% were married couples
Marriage
Marriage is a social union or legal contract between people that creates kinship. It is an institution in which interpersonal relationships, usually intimate and sexual, are acknowledged in a variety of ways, depending on the culture or subculture in which it is found...
living together, 9.30% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.70% were non-families. 24.50% of all households were made up of individuals and 8.90% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 2.95.
In the county the population was spread out with 22.50% under the age of 18, 19.80% from 18 to 24, 23.00% from 25 to 44, 21.50% from 45 to 64, and 13.20% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females there were 102.80 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.20 males.
The median income for a household in the county was $33,849, and the median income for a family was $40,465. Males had a median income of $32,127 versus $22,467 for females. The per capita income
Per capita income
Per capita income or income per person is a measure of mean income within an economic aggregate, such as a country or city. It is calculated by taking a measure of all sources of income in the aggregate and dividing it by the total population...
for the county was $16,372. About 9.60% of families and 16.10% of the population were below the poverty line, including 16.60% of those under age 18 and 7.60% of those age 65 or over.
Geography
According to the 2000 census, the county has a total area of 571.1 square miles (1,479.1 km²), of which 555.69 square miles (1,439.2 km²) (or 97.30%) is land and 15.41 square miles (39.9 km²) (or 2.70%) is water.Adjacent counties
- Osceola CountyOsceola County, Michigan-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 23,197 people, 8,861 households, and 6,415 families residing in the county. The population density was 41 people per square mile . There were 12,853 housing units at an average density of 23 per square mile...
(north) - Isabella CountyIsabella County, Michigan-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 63,351 people, 22,425 households, and 13,006 families residing in the county. The population density was 110 people per square mile . There were 24,528 housing units at an average density of 43 per square mile...
(east) - Montcalm CountyMontcalm County, Michigan-Michigan State Highways:* M-46* M-57* M-66* M-82* M-91-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 61,266 people, 22,079 households, and 16,183 families residing in the county. The population density was 86 people per square mile . There were 25,900 housing units at an average density...
(south) - Newaygo CountyNewaygo County, MichiganNewaygo County is a county in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is part of the Grand Rapids–Wyoming, MI, Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2010 census, the population was 48,460. The county seat is White Cloud. Newaygo County was either named for an Ojibwe leader who signed the Saginaw...
(west)
US Highways
US-131U.S. Route 131US Highway 131 is a north–south United States Highway, of which all but 0.67 miles of its 266.82 miles are within the state of Michigan. The highway starts in rural Indiana south of the state line as a state road connection to the Indiana Toll Road...-
BUS US 131 is a loop route traveling through Big Rapids.
Michigan State Highways
M-20M-20 (Michigan highway)M-20 is a state trunkline highway in the US state of Michigan that runs from New Era to Midland. It crosses through rural Lower Peninsula forest land between the two ends. The highway serves the college towns of Big Rapids and Mt...
M-66M-66 (Michigan highway)M-66 is a north–south state trunkline highway on the Lower Peninsula of the US state of Michigan. It runs from the Indiana state line in the south to Charlevoix in the north. M-66 is the only state highway to traverse almost the entire north–south distance of the LP. It starts as a...
Intercounty Highways
-
B-96
Major Businesses & Employers
- Ferris State UniversityFerris State UniversityFerris State University is a public university with its main campus in Big Rapids, Michigan, USA. Founded in 1884 as the Big Rapids Industrial School by Woodbridge Nathan Ferris, an educator from New England who later served as governor of the State of Michigan and finally in the US Senate where...
, Big Rapids - HaworthHaworth (company)Haworth designs and manufactures adaptable workspaces, including raised floors, movable walls, systems furniture, seating, storage and wood casegoods. Family-owned and privately held, Haworth is headquartered in Holland, Michigan in the United States. Haworth serves markets in more than 120...
, Big Rapids - Mecosta County Medical Center, Big Rapids
- Wolverine Worldwide, Big Rapids
Government
The county government operates the jail, maintains rural roads, operates themajor local courts, keeps files of deeds and mortgages, maintains vital records, administers
public health
Public health
Public health is "the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting health through the organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities and individuals" . It is concerned with threats to health based on population health...
regulations, and participates with the state in the provision of welfare and
other social services. The county board of commissioners
County commission
A county commission is a group of elected officials charged with administering the county government in local government in some states of the United States. County commissions are usually made up of three or more individuals...
controls the
budget but has only limited authority to make laws or ordinances. In Michigan, most local
government functions — police and fire, building and zoning, tax assessment, street
maintenance, etc. — are the responsibility of individual cities and townships.
Mecosta County elected officials
- Prosecuting AttorneyProsecutorThe prosecutor is the chief legal representative of the prosecution in countries with either the common law adversarial system, or the civil law inquisitorial system...
: Peter Jaklevic - SheriffSheriffA sheriff is in principle a legal official with responsibility for a county. In practice, the specific combination of legal, political, and ceremonial duties of a sheriff varies greatly from country to country....
: Todd Purcell - County Clerk: Marcee Purcell
- County TreasurerTreasurerA treasurer is the person responsible for running the treasury of an organization. The adjective for a treasurer is normally "tresorial". The adjective "treasurial" normally means pertaining to a treasury, rather than the treasurer.-Government:...
: Connie L. Scott - Register of Deeds: Karen Hahn
- Drain CommissionerDrain commissionerA drain commissioner is an elected official in counties of the U.S. state of Michigan with a population over 12,000. In counties with a population under 12,000, the statutory duties and responsibilities of the drain commissioner are performed by the county's board of road commissioners.The office...
: Jackie Fitzgerald - Road Commissioners: John R. Currie; Paul Jefts; Randy Maxwell
(information as of January, 2011)
Cities, villages, and townships
Cities- Big RapidsBig Rapids, MichiganBig Rapids is a city in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the city population was 10,849. It is the county seat of Mecosta County. The city is located within Big Rapids Township, but is politically independent.-Geography:...
Villages
- BarrytonBarryton, MichiganBarryton is a village in Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 381 at the 2000 census. The village is located in Fork Township on M-66...
- MecostaMecosta, MichiganMecosta is a village in Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 440 at the 2000 census. The village is within Morton Township...
- MorleyMorley, MichiganMorley is a village in Deerfield Township, Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 495 at the 2000 census.-Geography:...
- StanwoodStanwood, MichiganStanwood is a village in Mecosta County of the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the village population was 204. The village is within Mecosta Township.-Geography:...
Unincorporated
- Altona
- Canadian LakesCanadian Lakes, MichiganCanadian Lakes is an unincorporated resort community in Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The area is mostly within the southwest portion of Morton Township, southwest of Mecosta and east of Stanwood....
Townships
- Aetna TownshipAetna Township, Mecosta County, MichiganAetna Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the township population was 2,044.-Geography:...
- Austin TownshipAustin Township, Mecosta County, MichiganAustin Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the township population was 1,415.-Geography:...
- Big Rapids TownshipBig Rapids Township, MichiganBig Rapids Township is a charter township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the township population was 3,249.The city of Big Rapids is located within the township, but is administratively autonomous.-Geography:...
- Chippewa TownshipChippewa Township, Mecosta County, MichiganChippewa Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the township population was 1,239.-Communities:*Chippewa Lake is a small community within the township on Chippewa Lake and Lake Street...
- Colfax TownshipColfax Township, Mecosta County, MichiganColfax Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,975 at the 2000 census.- Communities :...
- Deerfield TownshipDeerfield Township, Mecosta County, MichiganDeerfield Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,630 at the 2000 census.-Geography:...
- Fork TownshipFork Township, MichiganFork Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,678 at the 2000 census.-Geography:According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of , of which, of it is land and of it is water.-Demographics:As of the census of...
- Grant TownshipGrant Township, Mecosta County, MichiganGrant Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the township population was 680.-Geography:...
- Green Charter TownshipGreen Charter Township, MichiganGreen Charter Township is a charter township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the township population was 3,209...
- Hinton TownshipHinton Township, MichiganHinton Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the township population was 1,035. John Hinton was the first white settler here in 1855. The township was named for him when it was organized in 1860...
- Martiny TownshipMartiny Township, MichiganMartiny Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,606 at the 2000 census.-Geography:...
- Mecosta TownshipMecosta Township, MichiganMecosta Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 2,435 at the 2000 census. The Village of Mecosta, which is also in Mecosta County, is in Morton Township, several miles to the east.-Geography:...
- Millbrook TownshipMillbrook Township, MichiganMillbrook Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,081 at the 2000 census.-Geography:...
- Morton TownshipMorton Township, MichiganMorton Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 3,597 at the 2000 census.- Communities :* Canadian Lakes is an unincorporated community in the southwest part of the township....
- Sheridan TownshipSheridan Township, Mecosta County, MichiganSheridan Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,357 at the 2000 census.-Geography:...
- Wheatland TownshipWheatland Township, Mecosta County, MichiganWheatland Township is a civil township of Mecosta County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,474 at the 2000 census.- Communities :...
See also
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Mecosta County, Michigan