Muskegon MI Moving Companies

Muskegon, Michigan

Muskegon County is located in Western Michigan and borders the shores of Lake Michigan. With a population of about 170,000, Muskegon County has been aggressively building not only its recreation infrastructure, but also its infrastructure for business. Muskegon offers everything a business needs to be successful: a skilled and experienced labor force; transportation accessibility from land, water, and air; and a solid public and private utilities infrastructure. Those moving to Muskegon will surely discover an exciting destination.

History:
Settlement of Muskegon began in earnest in 1837 when Muskegon Township was organized as a subdivision of Ottawa County. One of the earliest settlers, Henry Pennoyer, was elected as the first township supervisor in 1838. The era of settlement coincided with the beginning of the exploitation of the area’s extensive timber resources. The commencement of the lumber industry in 1837 inaugurated what some regard as the most romantic era in the history of the region.

The typical lumberman of that era was a young man in his twenties or thirties from New England, New York, or Pennsylvania who had enjoyed sufficient success in some previous occupation to build a small mill and to make a modest investment in Michigan timberlands. By the time the local lumber industry had reached its peak in the mid 1880's, forty-seven sawmills surrounded Muskegon Lake, while another sixteen dotted the shores of White Lake to the north.

Toward the end of the 19th century, the lumbering era was fading away. The Great Depression of the 1930's undermined much of that economic developments, but the economy rebounded during World War II in response to Muskegon’s role as an “Arsenal of Democracy.” The 1950's and 1960s witnessed a return to the economic doldrums. Factories cut back on production and laid off employees in unprecedented numbers. Many area businesses closed their doors permanently. The 1960's and 1970's were years of business consolidation when numerous locally owned banks and industrial establishments were sold to giant national and international corporations. Today, the melting pot diversity of Muskegon’s ethnic heritage is in keeping with the varied nature of the other elements of its recent past.

Economy:
The unemployment level in the Muskegon-Norton Shores statistical area is around 17 percent. Education and Health Services is now the lone industry that consistently expands its employment numbers. Though the leisure and hospitality sector seemed for a few years to be one of the few growing industries in the Muskegon area, it too recently began to stale. Housing and commercial property are well-priced, and the city is naturally positioned near excellent leisure activities, and a stone's throw from major population and cultural centers. The city has also spent the last decade or so transitioning its downtown from an industrial-manufacturing center to a shopping, entertainment and commerce center with $10,000,000 Federal waterway restoration dollars recently awarded to restore Muskegon Lake. The city has also invested heavily in alternative energy in cooperation with Grand Valley State University, with the Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center, alternative energy business incubator. Before the national economic slump Muskegon was one of the fastest growing economies in Michigan, and for a while in the upper Midwest. With the national economy rebounding, Muskegon is well positioned for recovery.

Tourism:
Start your exploration of the city at Muskegon State Park. This state park offers a variety of winter recreation, including ice skating, cross-country skiing and much more. Next, grab the kids and head to Michigan Adventure. This classic amusement park offers not only thrilling rides, but also a water park where you can cool off during the summer months. While you are at the park, you can also spend sometime in the man-made wave pool. Next, the Great Lakes Naval Memorial & Museum is a wonderful place to enjoy an afternoon. Step back into time and tour a WWII submarine and a Prohibition Era Coast Guard cutter. With guided tours, you will not only explore historic vessels, but you will also experience a learning atmosphere fit for all ages. Finally, at night, enjoy the city’s nightlife by visiting a local pub or late night dinner where you can experience the local flavor firsthand.

Colleges/Universities:

• Muskegon Community College
• Baker College
• Grand Valley State University
• Western Michigan University – Muskegon

Interesting Facts:

• Muskegon was home to Haddon Sunbloom - the artist who designed the image we now commonly refer to as Santa Claus.
• The name “Muskegon” is derived from the Ottawa Indian term ‘Masquigon’ meaning “marshy river or swamp.”
• Muskegon was once known as the “Lumber Queen of the Mid-West.”