Wixom, MI
County: Oakland
History
![Wixom, Michigan Wixom, Michigan](https://images.yallshometown.com/cities/main/wixom-oakland-mi.jpg)
Wixom is a small city located in Oakland County, Michigan, United States. Its history can be traced back to the mid-19th century. The area was originally settled by European immigrants of German descent in the 1830s. They were drawn to the region by the fertile land and opportunities for farming.
The community was first known as Sibley's Corners, named after a local landowner named Sibley. In 1830, the Detroit and Howell Plank Road was constructed, passing through the settlement. This road helped to facilitate transportation and trade, contributing to the growth of the community.
In 1871, the name of the settlement was changed to Wixom in honor of the prominent landowner and settler, Jesse S. Wixom. He was a successful farmer and businessman who played a significant role in the development of the area.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wixom's economy thrived with the establishment of various industries. The railroad was extended through the city, connecting it to Detroit and other major cities. This led to the growth of manufacturing and industrial facilities, including the Michigan Stave Company, which produced barrels, and the Wixom Paper Company.
In the mid-20th century, the automobile industry began to dominate the region. Wixom played a crucial role in this development, as Ford Motor Company selected the city to be the site for their Wixom Assembly Plant in 1957. The plant became an important manufacturing facility, producing automobiles such as the Lincoln Continental, Ford Thunderbird, and Ford GT.
The presence of the Ford plant brought both prosperity and population growth to Wixom. The city experienced significant residential expansion, with new housing developments and subdivisions being constructed to accommodate the growing population.
However, in the early 2000s, the decline of the American automotive industry took its toll on Wixom. Ford Motor Company closed the Wixom Assembly Plant in 2007, resulting in a substantial loss of jobs and economic impact for the city.
Since then, Wixom has made efforts to attract new businesses and diversify its economy. The city has focused on promoting high-tech industries, office complexes, and retail centers. It has also invested in enhancing its parks, recreational facilities, and public infrastructure to improve the quality of life for its residents.
Today, Wixom continues to evolve as a small, vibrant community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial developments. While its history is deeply rooted in agriculture and automotive manufacturing, the city is working to create a more diverse and sustainable local economy.
Attractions
![Proud Lake State Recreation Area Proud Lake State Recreation Area](https://images.yallshometown.com/cities/attractions/0/wixom-oakland-mi.jpg)
Proud Lake State Recreation Area
A beautiful park with a 4,700-acre river system, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking.
Wixom Farmer's Market
A seasonal market where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more from local vendors.
Walled Lake Brewing Company
A local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers and delicious food.
Wixom Historical Museum
A small museum that showcases the history and heritage of Wixom, featuring exhibits on early settlers, schools, businesses, and community life.
Total Sports Complex
A large sports complex offering indoor soccer, flag football, inline hockey, lacrosse, and other sports activities.
Lyon Oaks Golf Course
A scenic 18-hole golf course surrounded by woodlands and situated on rolling hills.
Novi-Northville Kayak and Stand-up Paddleboard Rentals
Located near Wixom, you can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore the nearby lakes and rivers.
Paradise Park
An entertainment center with go-karts, mini-golf, batting cages, laser tag, an arcade, and more.
Wixom Community Center
A community center that offers various activities and classes, including fitness programs, art workshops, and community events.
Union Lake
A nearby lake where you can enjoy boating, fishing, water skiing, and other water activities.
Climate
The climate of Wixom, MI is categorized as a humid continental climate. The city experiences all four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters.
Summers in Wixom are typically warm and sometimes hot, with average high temperatures in the 80s Fahrenheit (26-32 degrees Celsius). July is usually the warmest month of the year, with average temperatures reaching the mid-80s (around 29 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels can vary, but it generally remains moderate.
Winters in Wixom are cold, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-30s Fahrenheit (-4 to 2 degrees Celsius). January is the coldest month, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common during winter, with an average annual snowfall of around 40 inches (102 cm).
Spring and autumn in Wixom are mild and variable. Spring temperatures gradually rise from the 40s to the 60s Fahrenheit (4-16 degrees Celsius) as the season progresses. Autumn experiences a similar pattern of temperature decline, starting in the 60s and dropping to the 40s as it approaches winter.
Wixom also experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with the highest rainfall occurring in the summer months. Thunderstorms are not uncommon during the warmer seasons.
Overall, Wixom has a classic Midwestern climate with a mix of hot summers, cold winters, and mild transitional seasons.
Neighborhoods
Wixom is a small city located in Oakland County, Michigan. It is primarily residential, and while it is not divided into distinct neighborhoods like larger cities, there are several notable areas within Wixom that offer unique characteristics. Here are some key aspects of different parts of Wixom:
Downtown Wixom
The heart of the city, downtown Wixom features a mix of small businesses, shops, restaurants, and services. It is a vibrant area with a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere and a sense of community.
Lake Village of Wixom
Located near the southwestern corner of Wixom, this area features many homes situated along or near Walled Lake. As such, it offers a peaceful and scenic environment for those who enjoy waterfront living.
Loon Lake Village
Situated southeast of downtown Wixom, the Loon Lake area is known for its proximity to Loon Lake, which is great for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. It offers a more rural and secluded atmosphere.
Walled Lake Village
While this area is technically part of the nearby city of Walled Lake, it is adjacent to Wixom and often considered part of the larger community. Walled Lake Village has its own downtown area, beach, and parks, offering a charming lakeside experience.
Potomac Townhomes
Located in the northeastern part of Wixom, Potomac Townhomes is a residential community that offers townhouse-style living. It provides a range of amenities and is popular among families and young professionals.
Other Residential Areas
Wixom is home to numerous other residential subdivisions, each with its own unique character. These neighborhoods offer a mix of detached single-family homes and townhouses, and they vary in terms of size, age of homes, and amenities available.
Overall, Wixom is a family-friendly city that offers a mix of suburban living, access to outdoor activities, and a small-town atmosphere.