About Jonesville - The Village of Jonesville Michigan

The Village of Jonesville is located in south central Michigan about 20 miles due north of the border where Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana meet. It was founded in 1828 as a stopping place along a path the Indians called the "Sauk Trail". In later years it was referred to as the "Old Chicago Trail" and the "Military Road". Today, Jonesville is at the crossroads of highways US-12 and M-99 and has a population of about 2,400.

Jonesville is known for the large industrial park that employs many residents from around the area. Once a major parts supplier to the auto industry, diversification has adjusted production to other segments of the economy as well. A talented and well-educated workforce has made Jonesville a draw for new industry.

Education has always been important in Jonesville. The first "Free School" in Michigan was in Jonesville as was the first school district with a defined curriculum. The longest continuously operated primary school building in Michigan is currently being used as Jonesville Middle School. A thoroughly modern high school opened in 2001. With the "school of choice" available to all county residents, Jonesville has become the leader in out-of-district students due to this modern facility and diverse scholastic offerings.

Jonesville is also known as the place to go in Hillsdale County for a great meal. Whether its fast food, ethnic cuisine, home cooking, pizza, or fine dining, the best selection for eateries is in Jonesville. All restaurants in Jonesville are locally owned and operated.

The St. Joe River flows north through town. It is the centerpiece for Jonesville's annual Riverfest celebration in May. It provides a challenging canoe racing course for people of all ages, affiliations, and abilities. The St. Joe also runs along the Mill Race Golf Course. It is a challenging, scenic, and fun place to enjoy the beauty of southern Michigan.

Two historic buildings in town have been turned into upscale Bed and Breakfast lodging facilities. The Rooms at Grayfield is a wonderful transformation of the local train station. The Munro House B&B happens to be the oldest house in Hillsdale County.

A modern sewer system and a newly expanded waste water treatment plant assures residents and industry that their infrastructure needs will be met well into the future. A new police department facility, award winning fire department, attractive historic village hall, and public parks provide essential services.

The preservation of the Grace Episcopal Church and the Grosvenor House Museum have been rallying points among local residents who value the history of this town. The Sauk Theater is a gathering place for thespians both young and old with several professional quality plays and musical performances each year. The recently erected Veterans’ Freedom Memorial is a fine stone and granite monument dedicated to the memory of past and future veterans of all branches of the military.

The housing in Jonesville is made up mostly of well-maintained older homes, some dating back to the mid 1800's. A newer subdivision just outside the village limits features large modern homes in a semi-rural setting. There are expandable areas inside the village limits in residential, commercial, and industrial zones. The village is proud of its history and is making progressive choices for its future.

Life is good in Jonesville.

Mike Venturini, resident and Munro House B&B Proprietor