Middleville, MI

Middleville, MI is a small village located in Barry County, Michigan. The history of Middleville dates back to the early 19th century when European settlers began to arrive in the region.

In the early 1830s, the area that is now Middleville was inhabited by the Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians, also known as the Gun Lake Tribe. The tribe had a reservation near Gun Lake, which remains active to this day.

The first European settlers arrived in the Middleville area around 1834. The village was originally known as Middlebury and was primarily an agricultural community. The settlers cleared the land and began farming, taking advantage of the fertile soil in the area.

The village quickly grew, attracting more settlers and businesses. In 1838, the community's first post office was established, and it adopted the name Middleville. The village's early growth was fueled by industries such as sawmills and gristmills, which took advantage of the Thornapple River flowing through the area.

By the late 19th century, Middleville had become a thriving community, with a number of businesses, a school, a bank, and several churches. The village continued to develop throughout the early 20th century, with the addition of new utilities, a library, and paved roads.

In the 20th century, Middleville experienced several significant events that shaped its history. In 1985, the Gun Lake Tribe regained federal recognition and established the Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians. The tribe opened a casino, called the Gun Lake Casino, near Middleville in 2011, which has provided economic benefits to the region.

Today, Middleville is a close-knit community with a population of around 3,400 residents. It retains its small-town charm while offering modern amenities and services. The village is known for its natural beauty, with the Thornapple River and nearby Gun Lake offering opportunities for outdoor recreation.

In conclusion, the history of Middleville, MI is one of European settlement, agricultural development, and community growth. The village has evolved over time and remains an important part of Barry County's heritage.

Charlton Park

A historical village and museum with various exhibits and events throughout the year.

Littlejohn Farm

A family-owned farm where visitors can pet and interact with farm animals.

Thornapple River

A scenic river that offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities.

Paul Henry Thornapple Trail

A trail that runs along the Thornapple River, perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying nature.

Yankee Springs Recreation Area

A state park with hiking trails, camping sites, swimming areas, and boating opportunities.

Ransom District Library

A local library with a variety of books, resources, and community events.

General Store

A charming store in downtown Middleville that offers a selection of unique gifts, antiques, and local products.

Middleville Village Plaza

A small outdoor shopping center with various stores and dining options.

Gun Lake Casino

A nearby casino with gaming, dining, and entertainment options.

Bowens Mills

A historic landmark that showcases a restored water-powered sawmill and other historical buildings.

Middleville, MI has a humid continental climate. It experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year, with variations in temperature and precipitation.

Summer: The summers in Middleville are typically warm and sometimes humid. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29°C), but can occasionally reach the 90s°F (32°C) during heatwaves. July and August are the warmest months, with occasional thunderstorms bringing rainfall.

Autumn: Autumn in Middleville is known for its vibrant fall foliage. The temperatures start to cool down, with highs in the 60s and 70s°F (15-25°C) in September and dropping further to the 40s and 50s°F (4-15°C) in November. Rainfall is moderate during this season.

Winter: Winters in Middleville are cold with occasional snowfall. Average highs range from the mid-20s to the low 30s°F (-4 to 0°C) in December and January. January is usually the coldest month, with temperatures occasionally plunging below freezing. Snowfall can vary, with an average of around 50 inches (127 cm) per year, creating opportunities for winter activities.

Spring: Spring in Middleville sees a gradual increase in temperature. March starts off with highs in the 40s°F (4-9°C) but rises into the 50s and 60s°F (10-20°C) by May. Rainfall is common during the spring months, and occasional thunderstorms can occur. It is a time of blooming flowers and greening landscapes.

Overall, Middleville, MI experiences a climate with distinct seasons, offering a range of weather conditions throughout the year.

Middleville, MI is a relatively small town located in Barry County, Michigan. While it may not have numerous neighborhoods, there are a few distinct areas within the town that provide unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in Middleville:

Downtown Middleville

As the central hub of the town, downtown Middleville offers a charming and quaint atmosphere. Here, you'll find a variety of locally owned shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. The Thornapple River flows on the outskirts, adding to the picturesque setting.

River Oaks

Located on the eastern side of Middleville near the Thornapple River, River Oaks is a neighborhood that offers a mix of residential and recreational spaces. There are several parks, walking trails, and access points to the river that provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Orchard Park

Situated in the northwestern part of Middleville, Orchard Park is a family-friendly neighborhood with a suburban feel. It features well-maintained homes, tree-lined streets, and a sense of community. The area also includes Orchard Park, a local park with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.

Cedar Lake

Cedar Lake, located to the south of Middleville, is a small residential area that surrounds Cedar Lake. This neighborhood offers a peaceful retreat with lakefront properties, providing residents with opportunities for water activities like fishing, boating, and swimming.

West Village

To the west of downtown Middleville, you'll find the West Village neighborhood. This area is a mix of residential and commercial properties, including a few small businesses, schools, and residential communities. It has a convenient location close to the amenities of both downtown Middleville and nearby cities.

These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods found in Middleville, MI. While the town is relatively small, it provides a variety of lifestyle options, from the bustling downtown scene to peaceful, nature-filled areas.