Eaton Rapids, Michigan

48827

Photos courtesy of:
Ken Huisjen

Eaton Rapids is situated at the junction of M-99 and M-50 in southeastern Eaton County. It has a diverse economy, chiefly supported by manufacturing, including packaging material, food processing, and industrial parts. This picturesque city located on the Grand River was named for both the river rapids and the county which had been named after John Eaton, Andrew Jackson�s Secretary of War. A major attraction is the historical Island Park built at the turn of the century, featuring an old stone bridge, several statues and memorials, with picnic area.Like many other towns in Eaton County, Eaton Rapids was first settled by people from Ohio, including Amos and Pierpont Spicer, who platted the village in 1838, and Benjamin Knight, who became the first postmaster that same year. The town began because of significant interest in the crop of timber in the area, with a sawmill marking the start of a community. It eventually was incorporated as a village in 1871, and as a city a decade later.

Eaton Rapids, Michigan

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Eaton Rapids, Michigan

48827

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