Battle Creek

Kurt Thornton

Aug 2004 · Arcadia Publishing

About this ebook

In 1825, two government surveyors platting the southwest Michigan territory engaged in a small skirmish with two Native Americans. With a humorous nod, the surveyors gave the name Battle Creek to the river where this encounter took place. A few years later, a group of entrepreneurs, led by Sands McCamly, established a milling community and named it after the river. Thus the city of Battle Creek had its start. Over the following 170 years, it has grown into a thriving community of culture and character. This book uses historical photos and rare illustrations to trace Battle Creek's chronological development, from its water-powered mills, its railroads and factories, and its identity as a major stop on the Underground Railroad to its eventual pre-eminence as the "Cereal City."

Ratings and reviews

This is the best book I've ever read

About the author

A lifelong resident of Battle Creek, Kurt Thornton learned Battle Creek's story from his mother, Frances Thornton, a historian and collector of local memorabilia. Along with his interest in local history, he is an amateur photographer and established artist, known for his pen and ink illustrations and his annual calendars, which have celebrated Battle Creek history for over 20 years.