Michelle Aniol
Community Development Director
City of Williamson EDC
161 E. Grand River Ave.
Williamston, MI 48895
econdda@williamston-mi.us
Phone:  (517) 655-2774
Fax:  (517) 655-2797

          Interesting Information About Williamston

Williamston Community -- Williamston has a population of over 10,000 people, but maintains a small town atmosphere with its antique stores, specialty shops, well-kept neighborhoods and historical downtown buildings. The city has easy access to area colleges such as Michigan State University, area shopping centers and entertainment though its close proximity to I-96. The community believes in the importance of recreational activities as it has the Red Cedar Recreation Association. This association provides a variety of activities for adults and children such as gymnastics, swimming, basketball, soccer, flag football, football, cheerleading, wrestling camp and more.

Williamston History -- Williamston was first settled in 1834. Williamston road was cut from forest to create the city. The road turns into Putnam Street, which is named after the men who cut the path. The land for the village was platted in 1845 and the area grew quickly. The town became a stop on the Grand River Trail between Detroit and Lansing in the mid-late 19th century. Williamston became a village in April, 1871. From that time until shortly before World War 1, Williamston was a commercial and social hub in Eaton County. Soon after, people started to leave Williamston for Lansing and businesses followed. Williamston became a city in April, 1945. The city suffered economically in the 1970's with the decline in interest for small stores, but that changed a decade or so later when it became popular again. Today, Williamston is once again becoming the area's social center. Several revisions and renovations are attracting people to the city.

 Michigan Economic
Developers Association
P. O. Box 15096
Lansing, MI 48901-5096
Phone: 517-241-0011
Fax: 517-241-0089

Updated Quarterly