Waterford, Michigan is a township located in Oakland County. It is situated northwest of Detroit and is known for its extensive chain of inland lakes and waterways. The original inhabitants of the area were the Ojibwa people who referred to the land as “Wa-be-be-tong” which means “the place of the beaver.” These indigenous people farmed, hunted, fished, and traded within the area until European settlers started arriving in the late 18th century.

In 1818, John Fleming established a trading post near where M-59 and Crescent Lake Road intersect today, making him the first white man to settle within what is now Waterford Township. Throughout the 19th century, the early settlers cleared land and established farms which eventually developed into thriving communities. During this time, many sawmills and mills were erected along Waterford’s waterways, leading to significant growth in the area’s lumber industry.

The arrival of the automobile in Michigan in the early 20th century marked a significant shift in Waterford Township’s economy. The town was a peaceful rural community before it started developing urban areas to accommodate its fast-growing population and to cater to the increasing demand for more efficient and effective transportation. In 1940, General Motors’ Pontiac assembly plant was built just southwest of Waterford Township making it possible for people living in Waterford to work at GM.

The mid-20th century saw a significant increase in residential construction with modern subdivisions sprouting up throughout the township. With that, Waterford went from being primarily rural to becoming a suburban community. Today, Waterford is home to over 73,000 residents and continues to experience steady economic growth as more businesses relocate to the area.

Modern life in Waterford is supported by several schools, restaurants, parks and recreation facilities. Residents have access to state-of-the-art medical care thanks to nearby hospitals such as St Joseph Mercy Oakland and McLaren Oakland. A plethora of shopping centers such as the Waterford Plaza, Oakland Pointe, and the Summit Place Mall, which features a wide variety of retail shops, are at your disposal. The township also boasts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the annual “Stars & Stripes Festival” held in June and the “Summer Concert Series” with various artists performing at Hess-Hathaway Park.

In conclusion, Waterford, Michigan’s history is a reflection of Michigan’s story and is a testament to how people can build thriving communities where they share prosperity and grow together. From its humble beginnings as a rural settlement, Waterford has gone through numerous transformations, resulting in an ever-evolving community that continues to offer residents an exceptional way of life.