Mecosta County, Michigan

Mecosta County originated in the Mid 1800’s due to the expansion of the lumber industry in northern Michigan and it’s strategic position on the Muskegon river with respect to railroad access. It was named after a Potawatomi Chief , and means "bear cub." In the 1860,s this county was a refuge for blacks during and after the Civil War, where freed slaves came to settle and work the land. The fieldstone house at Schoolsection Lake Park in Morton township was a traditional meeting place where both blacks and whites came together annually to celebrate the harvest.

Prior to being assigned the county seat for Mecosta County, the City of Big Rapids was named: " Leonard." The county consisted of both what is known today as Mecosta and Osceola Counties, with the original county seat at Hersey. As lumbering grew, the two county’s split.

Mecosta County was also home to one of Michigan’s former governors, Woodbridge N. Ferris, who started the Ferris Industrial School, which today is Ferris State University, the County’s largest employer. Traditionally, this School was known for it’s specialization in pharmaceutical science.

Today, Mecosta County is a prime recreational area, with its many lakes, marshes, streams, and of course the mighty Muskegon River. The County Parks, and Rails-to-Trails offer many opportunities for hiking, boating, canoeing, water skiing and fishing.

(For more information, contact the Mecosta County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.)

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