White Pigeon

Named after a Potawatomi Indian chief, this rural village located in St. Joseph County offers residents a small town feel with many resources found in larger communities. As one of the first settlements in Michigan, the community is rich in history, and aims to build on its existing legacy and create an even better future.

White Pigeon was first settled by the Potawatomi tribe, who inhabited the area for hundreds of years prior to its incorporation in 1837. The town was named after Chief Wahbememe, which means “Chief White Pigeon.” Legend states that while in Detroit, Wahbememe heard of plans to attack the settlement, and as a friend of the white settlers, ran nearly 150 miles to warn the settlers of the impending attack. Shortly after, legend states that he collapsed and died from exhaustion, and his remains are still in White Pigeon to this day.

White Pigeon Community Schools serve the area, with students from grades K-12 enrolled at three different schools. With a clearly defined mission, strong core values, and a well-thought vision for the future, White Pigeon Community Schools aims to create a superior learning experience for its students. U.S. Route 12 runs through White Pigeon, making travel across the state easy, and providing residents interstate travel as well.

The White Pigeon Township Library, self-described as “the best rural public library in Michigan” with an extensive selection of books both online and at the library itself, offers a level of service unmatched by most urban libraries. White Pigeon Township has over 1,400 acres of lakes and rivers, with half of that coming from Klinger Like, the largest in the area. These lakes, rivers and streams are filled with activity in the summer, as people boat, swim and fish while enjoying the beautiful Michigan landscape.