Lee Township Allegan County

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Nestled in the heart of Allegan County, Lee Township represents a quintessential rural Michigan community with a rich history and unique character. Spanning 35.2 square miles of picturesque landscape, this township offers a glimpse into the traditional Michigan way of life, blending agricultural heritage with modern rural living.

Historical Roots and Founding

The story of Lee Township begins in 1844 when the first settlers arrived in the area. Lumbermen followed in 1858, marking the beginning of the township’s economic development. Originally part of Pine Plains Township, Lee Township was officially established on its own in 1859 by the Board of Supervisors. Interestingly, the township is believed to have been named after Lee, Massachusetts, reflecting the common practice of early settlers naming new communities after their original hometowns.

Geographic and Demographic Landscape

Located approximately 10 miles inland from Lake Michigan, Lee Township sits strategically between South Haven and Saugatuck. The township’s geography is characterized by:

• Total Area: 36.1 square miles • Land Area: 35.2 square miles • Water Area: 0.93 square miles • Population: 3,805 (as of 2020 census) • Population Density: 108 people per square mile

Community and Unincorporated Communities

Lee Township is home to several charming unincorporated communities, each with its own unique character:

• Bakersville: Located on the northeast side of Lower Scott Lake • Lacota: Situated at the southwest corner boundary • Lee: Located on 56th Street • Pullman: A historic settlement with an intriguing name change in 1901 • Sherman Park: Positioned on the northwest side of Lower Scott Lake

Economic and Social Characteristics

The township presents an interesting economic profile:

• Median Household Income: $65,156 • Per Capita Income: $24,663 • Poverty Rate: 18.7%

The racial composition reflects a diverse community: • White: 87.02% • Hispanic: 36.37% • African American: 1.15% • Native American: 0.71%

Natural Resources and Recreation

A notable feature of Lee Township is the partial inclusion of the Allegan State Game Area. This natural resource attracts various outdoor enthusiasts, including:

• Campers • Snowmobilers • Cross-country skiers • Horse trail riders • Hikers • Bird watchers • Hunters

🌲 Note: While summer resorts have disappeared over the decades, the township still maintains many seasonal residents in private summer cottages.

The township’s transportation infrastructure includes a CSX rail line running north-south, which carries Amtrak traffic, though no stops are made within the township limits.

The narrative of Lee Township is one of resilience, community, and adaptation. From its early days of lumber and settlement to its current status as a diverse, rural Michigan township, it continues to be a testament to the enduring spirit of small-town America.