Allegan County, Michigan

Allegan County was named by Michigan statesman/historian Henry Schoolcraft for the Alleghen Indian tribe which inhabited the area prior to its settlement. As early as the 1820’s, this area was known for its agricultural potential and water resources. By the mid 1800’s, steamboats were traveling the Kalamazoo River from Saugatuck to Allegan, transporting lumber and farm crops to Lake Michigan for shipping.

The approximate 25 miles of coastline along Lake Michigan also became a major attraction, with resorts springing up to service heavy tourist traffic from Chicago and Michigan.

Today Allegan County retains much of its agricultural tradition carefully balanced with growth and change that has come with modern times. The county seat, Allegan, supported by small businesses and mid-sized manufacturing facilities, continues to grow while retaining its traditional look in turn-of-the-century style architecture. Otsego and Plainwell to the south have become economically associated to the greater Kalamazoo area while still retaining small-town atmospheres. Communities like Wayland, Hopkins and Martin continue to be great places to live as adjunct communities to larger metro areas. And the Kalamazoo River is as beautiful as ever - whether seen from bridges in Otsego and Plainwell, or from boats in Saugatuck, or canoes in the 80 square mile Allegan State Game Area in the center of the county.

If you’re looking for a nice diversion or quiet getaway, c’mon and check it out - for a memorable experience.

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