Michigan meridian

The Michigan Meridian is a surveying line running through the state that serves as a reference for land measurement and property divisions. It runs at approximately 84 degrees west longitude and forms the basis for describing land locations across the region.

The line was established in 1815 following the War of 1812, when surveyors began systematically measuring and mapping the land. This surveying work proved crucial for organizing land distribution and managing the state during its early years.

The line shaped how Michigan was divided and settled, with landowners receiving their plots based on measurements taken from this reference point during the era of territorial expansion.

Visitors can trace this surveying line through maps and surveying records, though it exists as an abstract reference with no visible physical markers on the ground. Historical maps and surveying documents help illustrate how this line determined land divisions and property boundaries across the state.

The initial surveying of this meridian contained inaccuracies, requiring surveyors to establish a second baseline to correct the early mistakes. The surveying work was not finalized until 1851, after years of adjustments and refinements to get the measurements right.

Location: Michigan

Part of: Public Land Survey System

GPS coordinates: 42.42440,-84.36470

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:09