
Images of Mecosta, Michigan: 1900-2020s
In 1836, a Potawatomi chief by the name of 'Big Bear' was one of the signers of the Treaty of Washington. Doesn't sound like much, but it was enough to have a whole county named after him. 'Big Bear' was the anglicized version of his Potawatomi name, 'Mecosta'. Some sources claim his name meant 'having a bear's foot'.
In 1851, the first person to settle in the area that (would become part of Mecosta County) was John Davis. In 1859 the county was formed and it was decided to be christened 'Mecosta' after the Indian chief.
In 1861 Mecosta Township was organized but not given a post office until 1867. It closed in 1873. In 1879 the railroad came through and the village of Mecosta was formed.....but surprisingly not in Mecosta Township; it popped up in Morton Township, 19 miles east. The town was platted that year and a post office was re-opened.
Mecosta was incorporated as a village in 1883. In the 2000s, Mecosta County is well-known for its over 100 lakes and rivers, and is a mecca for serious fishermen.
Take a look at some images of the town, going back to the early 1900s...
Mecosta, Michigan: 1900-2020s
MORE MICHIGANIA:
Vintage Photos of Clark Lake, Jackson County: 1900-1950
Vintage Photos of Albion: 1900-1920s
Vintage Photos of Dexter, Michigan: 1900-1940s
More From 99.1 WFMK








