History:

The Lake Township region once consisted of sand dunes, swamps, and woodlands. Explorers made their way to the area through Quebec by means of the Great Lakes and their adjoining rivers. Permanent settlers appeared on the scene 150 years after the French explorations.

Easy access to Lake Michigan and the abundance of wood made lumbering the first commercial interest in the Township. By 1870 several sawmills were in operation. A much-needed railroad and a pier were built, which further stimulated the economic growth of the area. A lagging economy eventually forced the sawmills out of operation, and the railroad became a mere reminder of the good ole times. After 1890, the economy rebounded. Immigrants from Russia and Germany poured into the area. In ten years the population doubled, as did the price of land. Fortunately, much of the population increase was absorbed in the local fruit and nursery industries.