County: Otsego (69)

Created from: 

Boundary finalized: 1875

Population: 1900 = 6,175  |  2000 = 23,301

County History

Before European settlement, the area was home to Native American tribes, including the Ottawa and Chippewa. The county was initially established in 1840 as "Okkuddo" County, but was renamed "Otsego" in 1843. The county was officially organized in 1875.

The late 19th century saw a boom in the lumber industry, which drove significant settlement in the area. The abundant white pine forests attracted loggers and settlers. Towns like Gaylord, Vanderbilt, and Waters grew as a result of the lumber trade.

As the lumber industry declined, agriculture became more important, with crops like potatoes being prominent. The county's history includes periods of population fluctuation, influenced by the rise and fall of industries. [GEM]