M-15 Heritage Route - [ City of Vassar ]

Here on the Cass River, on March 1, 1849, four men led by Townsend North and James M. Edmunds found a suitable place to build a dam and start a town, which was named for Edmunds' Uncle, Matthew Vassar, later the founder of Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York.  The growth of the town for the next 30 years was based on lumbering and its many related industries.  Cork pine, the best variety of white pine, grew in abundance along the mighty Cass River and was much in demand.  These kings of the forest grew to a height of 150 feet, often with diameters exceeding three feet.  The Wood was light and strong, and easy to work with.  Millions of board feet were marketed all over the world, especially in America's prairie states.  With the forests depleted, Vassar developed a diversified economy that is still evident today in its agriculture, manufacturing, and commercial business.  This rich history has helped Vassar earn its popular nickname that is known around the state - the Cork Pine City.  In 1999, Vassar celebrated its sesquicentennial.  Events were held throughout the year in celebration.

 

Vassar is a "Cool City."  On June 27, 2005, Governor Granholm announced that the City of Vassar has been given two Cool City designations.  The Cool Cities Program is part of the Governor's economic plan that is designed to help revitalize Michigan's cities by retaining and attracting the jobs and people to the economies of the 21st century.  The Cool Cities projects will strengthen the neighborhoods and downtowns and attract people to the State of Michigan as well as the City of Vassar.  To receive both designations, a multi-agency team reviewed the city applications that were submitted and looked for demonstrated close partnerships with existing community organizations and the private sector.  City Manager Scott Adkins stated, "You don't have to be a big city to be a cool city."  Please stop by and visit the City of Vassar!!

Please visit the City of Vassar website and check out our new website. - www.cityofvassar.org