City of Michigan City Archives

The 19th century town of Michigan City emerged as a plan before it ever became a settlement. The plan arose from the ambition to create a harbor on Lake Michigan, and a road to transport supplies to homesteaders in Indianapolis and central Indiana. In 1830, just 14 years after Indiana became a state, the land for Michigan City was purchased, sight unseen, by Isaac C. Elston, a real estate speculator who had made a small fortune in Crawfordsville. He paid about $200 total for 160 acres of land including the future harbor at the mouth of Trail Creek. The town was named after the road leading up to Lake Michigan.

Early visitors to the region were captivated by its rugged beauty, its abundance of wildflowers and berries, and especially the majestic sand dunes, one towering to 175-foot height. The land, however, was not suitable for farming. The growth of Michigan City was due to the flowing waters of Trail Creek, which afforded good locations for lumber and gristmills. Farmers came from miles around to have their wheat ground into flour. Other businesses developed rapidly.

The historic Downtown District has retained the ethnic diversity and rich cultural traditions of 19th century Michigan City.

Mayor Angie’s list of priorities was formed with one overarching goal in mind: to enhance the quality of life in Michigan City. The mayor knows that providing proper support for her municipal employees allows them to increase the standard of service they deliver to our residents, neighborhoods, businesses, nonprofit organizations and visitors. And in doing so, they make Michigan City the Region’s premier place to live, work and play.

Michigan City Vector Control Celebrates Earth Day by Honoring Progress and Promoting Community Partnership

By: City of Michigan City Last Updated: April 22, 2025

Michigan City Vector Control Celebrates Earth Day by Honoring Progress and Promoting Community Partnership On this Earth Day, the Michigan City Vector Control Department is proud to recognize the collective strides made toward creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable community. As stewards of public health and the environment, the...

By: Philip Bolton Last Updated: April 19, 2025

Things get hoppin’ at Michigan City’s 2025 Easter Egg Hunt On the afternoon of Saturday, April 19, the Michigan City Special Events, Michigan City Police Department (MCPD), Michigan City Fire Department, and Michigan City Department of Parks and Recreation hosted the city’s annual Easter Egg Hunt at...

By: Damon Modglin Last Updated: April 15, 2025

10 Fun Things To Do in Northern Indiana this weekend, April 17 – April 20 Easter’s here, and that means Northern Indiana is hopping with fun things to do this weekend! From Easter egg hunts and brunches to opportunities to learn, grow, and develop, you’ll have your hands full trying to plan out your weekend. Take...

Mayor’s Charitable Gala raises $145,000 for youth and neighborhoods

By: City of Michigan City Last Updated: April 14, 2025

Mayor’s Charitable Gala raises $145,000 for youth and neighborhoods In the spirit of investing in Michigan City’s youth and neighborhoods, more than 750 guests gathered for Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch’s Second Annual Charitable Gala on Friday at the Stardust Event Center at Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa. ...

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Harbor Country Adventures and Michigan City Launch First Annual MC Food and Music Festival

By: City of Michigan City Last Updated: April 9, 2025

Harbor Country Adventures and Michigan City Launch First Annual MC Food and Music Festival Harbor Country Adventures, in partnership with the Michigan City Department of Special Events, proudly announces the inaugural MC Food and Music Festival, set for Memorial Day weekend at the Guy Foreman Amphitheater. The festival will take place on...

Michigan City provides Tire Amnesty Day

By: City of Michigan City Last Updated: April 9, 2025

Michigan City provides Tire Amnesty Day Michigan City is offering a TIRE AMNEST DAY on Saturday, April 19. Local residents (verifiable via driver's license or state ID) can bring up to FIVE tires to the Michigan City Sanitary District, 1100 E. 8th St., between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. that day...

The Washington Park Zoo says goodbye to Stripes, a 20-year-old Bengal tiger

By: Washington Park Zoo Last Updated: April 7, 2025

The Washington Park Zoo says goodbye to Stripes, a 20-year-old Bengal tiger Photo provided by Paul Kemiel The Washington Park Zoo mourns the loss of one of its most beloved residents. Stripes, a 20-year-old Bengal tiger who captivated visitors since his arrival, was peacefully euthanized due to age-related health...

Spring Clean-up in Michigan City

By: City of Michigan City Last Updated: April 4, 2025

Spring Clean-up starts on MONDAY! Please have your items set out the Sunday prior to your scheduled pick-up week. Your Michigan City Refuse Department thanks you!

Washington Park Zoo Reopening Announcement

By: City of Michigan City Last Updated: March 25, 2025

Washington Park Zoo Reopening Announcement The Washington Park Zoo is thrilled to announce the reopening of its gates for its 2025 season on Saturday, March 29th, at 10:00 a.m. CST This marks the beginning of our 97th season and will be filled with exciting opportunities for education and...