Cities and Villages

Calendar of Events

BURR OAK

From its inhabitants to its architecture, this rural community is laden with small town charm. Founded in 1835, the village boasts blooming gladiola fields and the Prairie River. Burr Oak is the perfect place for a bike ride, Sunday drive, painting or photography setting, or urban escape, so make it your River Country destination!

CENTREVILLE

Centreville was established in 1831 and is the county seat of St. Joseph County. Today, the stately Victorian style courthouse still graces the center square of town, surrounded by small shops, businesses, and private homes. Visitors will want to see the Langley Covered Bridge and visit the St. Joseph County Grange Fairgrounds, host to a variety of activities throughout the year and rated one of the top-five fairs in Michigan.

COLON

The Magic Capital of the World! Colon’s role in the world of magic began in 1925 when Harry Blackstone, the great magician and illusionist, lived in the small town. Colon is home to Abbot’s Magic Company, the world’s largest producer of magic paraphernalia and sponsor of Abbott’s Magic Get-Together, a four-day magic convention held in August of each year. The event features performances by some of the World’s leading illusionists. Colon also is the site of beautiful Palmer Lake, which features swimming, boating, and fishing.

CONSTANTINE

Settled in 1828, Constantine takes pride in its historic downtown district, with its well-preserved historic homes and unique shops. Constantine has three major parks, often the site of its summer celebrations, which include the Stock Hydroplane Boat Races, the Vintage Garden Tractor Club of America Show, as well as participation in River Country’s STAR Route, which includes plant tours at various locations. Constantine is a great place to visit and to live. Come see what we are about!

MENDON

Mendon was pre-settled by the Nottawa-sepi Indian Tribe. The property was later purchased by the government and three tribes were displaced – although some returned and are present in the area. Mendon was also the half-way point between Detroit and Chicago for the railway and stage coach lines. Although the town burned down in 1916, it was rebuilt to reflect the early 1900’s architecture and interesting landmarks remain. Nine Amish districts surround the village and antique and artsy-craftsy shops are located in the quaint downtown.

STURGIS

Sturgis offers a unique shopping experience with quaint shops and one-of-a-kind merchandise. Sturgis is proud of its rich heritage, outstanding schools, beautiful parks, and recreational opportunities. Special events are held throughout the year, including Michigan Week Celebration, Downtown Dreamfest, and the annual motorcycle Toy Run, to mention a few. Sturgis is truly a community with pride in its past and faith in its future.

THREE RIVERS

Three Rivers is a symbol of the lively, appealing rivers, which gather at its heart. It has a new, state-of-the-art high school, a myriad of parks, a petting zoo, wonderful bed and breakfasts, and an historic downtown that is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. It is an ever-changing, progressive, peaceful community with attractions such as culture, recreation, entertainment, and an abundance of shopping.

WHITE PIGEON

White Pigeon was incorporated in 1837 and is the oldest incorporated village in Michigan. The town was named after an Indian chief who lived there in the early 1800's. Today, White Pigeon remains a small, agricultural town, with several unique shops that visitors will want to see.