When the Pickle Business Went Sour at Lakeview, Michigan

The village of Lakeview began as an Indian camp site on the west side of Tamarack Lake. In 1958 it was settled by Albert French, who arrived from New York. Nine years later, he platted the village and named it “Lakeview” after its location.

Sitting in Montcalm County, a post office began operating in 1867 and after twelve more years became a station on the Chicago, Saginaw and Canada Railroad.

Lakeview had a successful pickle producing business – Standard Pickle Company, Inc. - at Tamarack Lake. After a number of years, the pickle docks were purchased by the Heinz Company, who employed many of the Lakeview residents. After the pickle factory folded in the 1960s, that was it for Lakeview's pickle production....and also for hundreds of jobs.

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How Did Lakeview Bounce Back?

The term 'pickle docks' became an endearing term that reminded generations about the enterprise that flourished there for many years. A few decades later, in 2018, a new facility was built at the site: Byrne Electrical, bringing back much-needed jobs for town residents.

Thanks to this shot in the arm, Lakeview has sprung back to life. The town hosts festivals, Farmer's Markets, and the 'Music in the Park' concerts during summer.

Not a bad idea to take a detour to Lakeview during your next summer roadtrip...