Saginaw

Saginaw is a county seat in Michigan that extends along the Saginaw River, located roughly 50 miles (80 kilometers) northwest of Detroit. The city consists of residential blocks with wood and brick houses, commercial streets with low-rise buildings, and parks along the waterway.

A French trading post was established here in 1816, and the settlement later grew into a major lumber center during the 19th century. In the 20th century the economy shifted toward automotive manufacturing and related industries.

The name comes from an Algonquian word meaning "place of the Sauk," referring to the original inhabitants of the region. Today the riverfront serves as a public space where residents gather for summer festivals and outdoor concerts.

The city sits along Interstate 75, offering direct highway access north and south, and can be reached from Detroit in about an hour by car. Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge provides marked trails for walkers and bird watchers, especially during spring and fall migration seasons.

The mural titled 'The Evolution of Language,' created by Spanish artist Okuda San Miguel, covers a downtown building and ranks as one of the largest outdoor artworks in the country. The piece uses geometric patterns and bright colors to explore themes of communication and human connection.

Location: Saginaw County

Inception: 1815

Elevation above the sea: 177 m

Website: https://saginaw-mi.com

GPS coordinates: 43.41992,-83.95003

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:01