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'''Branch County''' is a county located in the southwestern part of the [[U.S. state]] of [[Michigan]]. As of the 2020 census, the population was 45,248. The county seat is [[Coldwater, Michigan|Coldwater]], which is also the largest city in the county. Branch County is known for its lakes, outdoor recreational activities, and historical significance.

== History ==
Branch County was established in 1829 and named after [[George M. Branch]], a Michigan legislator. The county was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the [[Potawatomi]], [[Ojibwa]], and [[Ottawa]]. European settlers arrived in the early 19th century, and the economy of the county became based on agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of grains, fruits, and livestock.

During the 19th century, Branch County became a center for agriculture, and Coldwater, the county seat, developed as an important trade and transportation hub due to its location along the [[St. Joseph River]]. The county also saw the growth of small manufacturing industries, including those producing textiles and furniture.

== Geography ==
According to the [[United States Census Bureau]], Branch County has a total area of 506 square miles, of which 492 square miles is land and 14 square miles (2.8%) is water. The county is located in the southwestern part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula and is bordered by:
* [[Calhoun County, Michigan|Calhoun County]] to the north
* [[St. Joseph County, Michigan|St. Joseph County]] to the east
* [[LaGrange County, Indiana|LaGrange County, Indiana]] to the south
* [[Branch County, Michigan|Steuben County, Indiana]] to the west

Key geographic features of Branch County include:
* **Coldwater Lake**: One of the largest lakes in the county, known for boating, fishing, and recreational activities.
* **St. Joseph River**: The river runs through the eastern part of the county and offers opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
* **Pine Lake**: Another popular recreational lake in the county.

== Economy ==
Branch County's economy is based on a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Major sectors include:
* **Agriculture**: The county remains an important agricultural area, with crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat, and potatoes, as well as dairy and livestock farming.
* **Manufacturing**: Branch County has a growing manufacturing sector, which includes furniture, automotive parts, and food products.
* **Tourism**: The county’s many lakes, including Coldwater Lake and Pine Lake, attract tourists for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. There is also a growing recreational tourism industry focused on the county’s parks and waterways.
* **Retail and Services**: The city of Coldwater serves as the retail and service center for the surrounding region.

== Communities ==
Branch County includes one city, several villages, and numerous townships.

* '''Coldwater''' (city): The county seat and largest city, known for its commercial and cultural offerings and proximity to outdoor recreation.
* '''Bronson''' (city): A smaller city in the southern part of the county, home to a variety of local businesses and a rural atmosphere.
* '''Quincy''' (village): A village located in the northeastern part of the county.

=== Townships ===
Branch County is divided into 14 townships:
* Algansee Township
* Batavia Township
* Bennington Township
* Coldwater Township
* Girard Township
* Hillsdale Township
* Kinderhook Township
* Lockport Township
* Matteson Township
* Ovid Township
* Sherwood Township
* South Branch Township
* Union Township
* Washington Township

== Parks and Recreation ==
Branch County offers numerous parks and recreational opportunities, including:
* **Coldwater Lake State Park**: A state park that offers boating, camping, picnicking, and hiking.
* **Pine Lake Park**: A public park offering boat rentals, beaches, and picnic areas.
* **St. Joseph River**: The river offers canoeing, kayaking, and fishing along its course through the county.

== Demographics ==
As of the 2020 census, Branch County had a population of 45,248. The population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of African American, Hispanic, and Native American residents. The county has a mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities, with most residents living in the city of Coldwater and the surrounding rural areas.

== Education ==
Branch County is served by several school districts:
* [[Coldwater Community Schools]]
* [[Quincy Community Schools]]
* [[Bronson Community Schools]]

Higher education opportunities in the county include:
* [[Branch County Community College]]: A community college offering a variety of academic programs.

== Transportation ==
Branch County is served by several major highways:
* [[Interstate 69]]: Runs through the western part of the county, providing access to nearby cities and states.
* [[M-60]]: A state highway that runs through the county, connecting Coldwater to nearby cities.

Public transportation is available through the [[Branch County Public Transit]] system, providing bus services for residents in rural areas.

== See Also ==
* [[Coldwater, Michigan]]
* [[Branch County Community College]]
* [[Coldwater Lake]]

== References ==
* United States Census Bureau. "QuickFacts: Branch County, Michigan."
* Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "Coldwater Lake State Park."
* Romig, Walter. ''Michigan Place Names''. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1986.

[[Category:Michigan counties]]
[[Category:Branch County, Michigan]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1829]]
[[Category:Counties in Michigan]]
[[Category:Lower Peninsula of Michigan]]
[[Category:Agriculture in Michigan]]
[[Category:1829 establishments in Michigan]]

Branch County, Michigan - Revision history

BenWetmore: Created page with "'''Branch County''' is a county located in the southwestern part of the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 45,248. The county seat is ..."