Clare County, Michigan

Clare County is a county located in the central region of the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 30,926. The county seat is Stanton, and the largest city is Greenville. Montcalm County is known for its agriculture, recreational opportunities, and natural beauty, with many lakes and rivers providing outdoor activities.

History

Clare County was established in 1840 and named after Clare, Ireland. The county was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Ojibwa and Potawatomi. European settlers began arriving in the early 19th century, with agriculture becoming the foundation of the county's economy.

The economy has historically been centered on farming, particularly crops such as corn and soybeans, as well as livestock. In the 20th century, tourism related to the county's natural features, such as lakes and rivers, has contributed to economic growth.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, Clare County has a total area of 573 square miles, of which 570 square miles is land and 3 square miles (0.5%) is water. The county is located in the central part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and is bordered by:

Mecosta County to the north
Isabella County to the west
Gratiot County to the south
Gladwin County to the east
Midland County to the southwest

Key geographic features of Clare County include:

Tittabawassee River: The river runs through the eastern part of the county and is a major waterway for the region.
Lakes: Clare County is home to several small lakes and waterways, including Coldwater Lake.
Chippewa Nature Center: Located in the northern part of the county, the nature center offers wildlife viewing and educational opportunities.

Economy

The economy of Clare County is primarily driven by agriculture and tourism, with key sectors including:

Agriculture: The production of crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat, as well as dairy farming.
Tourism: The county's lakes and rivers attract visitors for outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and camping.
Manufacturing: The county has some small-scale manufacturing and industries supporting the agricultural and tourism sectors.
Retail and Services: Local businesses in the city of Clare and surrounding areas contribute to the county's economy.

Communities

Clare County includes one city, several villages, and numerous townships.

Clare (city): The county seat and largest city, known for its historic downtown and connection to the state’s railroad heritage.
Harrison (city): A city located in the eastern part of the county, popular for its lakes and recreational activities.
Farwell (village): A village in the northern part of the county, known for its proximity to outdoor recreation and small-town atmosphere.

Townships

Clare County is divided into 15 townships:

Banat Township
Benson Township
Cherry Grove Township
Franklin Township
Garfield Township
Grant Township
Greenwood Township
Hamilton Township
Hayes Township
Lincoln Township
Mission Township
Montcalm Township
Pierson Township
Surrey Township
Sherman Township

Parks and Recreation

Clare County offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, including:

Harrison City Park: A park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and a lake for boating and fishing.
Clare County Parks: Includes small parks with walking trails, fishing areas, and outdoor sports fields for residents and visitors.
State Forests and Trails: Includes areas like the Harrison State Forest that provide hiking, camping, and nature exploration.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Clare County had a population of 30,926. The population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of African American, Hispanic, and Native American residents. The county has a mix of rural and suburban communities, with most residents living in smaller towns and along lakes and rivers.

Education

Clare County is served by several school districts:

Higher education opportunities in the county include:

Mid Michigan College: A community college located in Sidney, Michigan, offering a variety of academic programs and workforce training.

Transportation

Clare County is served by several major highways:

M-115: A state highway running through the county, providing access to rural areas and nearby towns.
US Route 127: Runs through the western part of the county, providing access to larger cities like Mount Pleasant and Lansing.

Public transportation is available through the Clare County Transportation Authority, offering bus services for residents in rural areas.

References

United States Census Bureau. "QuickFacts: Clare County, Michigan."
Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "Harrison State Forest."
Romig, Walter. Michigan Place Names. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1986.