Northville, MI
County: Wayne
History
Northville, Michigan is a small city located in Wayne County. The history of Northville dates back to the early 19th century when it was settled by Europeans following the Treaty of Detroit in 1807, which opened up the area to settlement.
The land where Northville is situated was originally occupied by the indigenous Ottawa people. In 1825, Aaron Webster purchased a 160-acre tract of land in the area, becoming one of the first permanent European settlers. However, it was not until 1830 that the area was officially named Northville. It is believed that the name was derived from Northville, New York, the hometown of Northville's first postmaster, Joseph Yerkes.
The completion of the Erie Canal in the 1820s and the establishment of a stagecoach stop in Northville in 1827 contributed to its growth and development. The village's proximity to the bustling city of Detroit also played a role in attracting settlers and businesses.
Northville experienced rapid growth in the mid-19th century due to its location on the Grand River and Erie Canal system. The transportation links allowed for easy movement of goods and supplies, leading to the establishment of mills, factories, and a thriving business district.
The late 19th century saw Northville continuing to expand, with the town incorporating as a city in 1955. During this period, it attracted several industries, including the renowned Northville Downs horse racetrack, which opened in 1944 and still operates today.
Over the years, Northville has preserved its historic downtown area, which features many well-preserved Victorian-era buildings. This has contributed to the city's unique charm and appeal.
In recent years, Northville has experienced growth and development while still maintaining a strong sense of community and quality of life. The city offers a mix of historical homes, parks, and a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and community events.
Overall, the history of Northville highlights its role as a transport hub, its growth spurred by the Erie Canal and Grand River, and its ability to maintain its historical character while embracing modern developments.
Attractions
Historic Downtown Northville
Known for its charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, downtown Northville offers a unique and vibrant atmosphere.
Mill Race Village
This living history museum takes visitors back to the 19th century with its historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and general store.
Maybury State Park
A beautiful park with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as picnic areas and fishing spots.
Northville Downs
This horse racing track has been a local favorite since 1944, hosting live harness racing events throughout the year.
Northville Historical Society
The historical society operates the Northville Museum, where visitors can learn about the area's history through exhibits and artifacts.
Northville Art House
This community art center showcases a variety of local and regional artworks through exhibitions, classes, and workshops.
Parmenter's Cider Mill
A popular spot for fall festivities, this cider mill offers fresh apple cider, doughnuts, and other treats, as well as hayrides and a petting zoo.
Northville Hills Golf Club
A pristine golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, offering challenging and scenic rounds of golf.
Northville Sports Den
A sports bar and restaurant known for its wide selection of craft beers, delicious food, and numerous TVs for watching games.
Northville Winery and Brewing Company
A local winery and brewery where visitors can enjoy tastings of handcrafted wines and beers, as well as live music events.
Climate
Northville, MI has a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm and moderately humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29°C). July is typically the warmest month.
Winters in Northville are cold, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 20s to the mid-30s Fahrenheit (-2 to 2°C). January is usually the coldest month, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.
Spring and fall are transitional seasons, with mild temperatures and changing weather conditions. Spring brings blooming flowers and temperatures gradually warming up, while fall brings colorful foliage and gradually cooling temperatures.
Northville experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with the highest amounts occurring during the summer months and the lowest during winter. Snowfall is common during the winter season, with an average annual snowfall of around 39 inches (99 cm).
Overall, Northville, MI experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations, making it ideal for those who enjoy experiencing all four seasons.
Neighborhoods
Northville, MI is a charming suburban town located in Wayne County, Michigan. It is divided into two separate neighborhoods: Northville Township and the Historic Northville District.
Northville Township
This is the larger of the two neighborhoods and primarily consists of newer residential developments. Many suburban-style homes can be found here, ranging from single-family houses to condominiums and apartments. The township offers a more modern feel, with well-maintained streets and sidewalks. Northville Township also includes various shopping centers, grocery stores, restaurants, and professional services. It is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent school district.
Historic Northville District
Also known as "Downtown Northville," this neighborhood is located in the heart of Northville and showcases the town's rich history and small-town charm. The Historic District features beautiful Victorian-style homes, historic buildings, and tree-lined streets. The area is known for its vibrant downtown area, filled with boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and locally-owned restaurants. The Main Street of the Historic Northville District is often bustling with activity, hosting community events, farmers markets, and festivals throughout the year. It has a walkable layout, with everything conveniently located within a short distance.
Both neighborhoods offer a high quality of life and a sense of community. Residents take pride in their well-maintained properties and enjoy the small-town atmosphere that Northville provides. Whether you prefer the modern amenities of Northville Township or the historic charm of the downtown area, Northville, MI offers a diverse range of neighborhoods to suit different preferences and lifestyles.