Niles

Niles is a city in southwestern Michigan near the Indiana border, situated along the St. Joseph River with rolling terrain and steep riverbanks. The downtown area sits within a region that blends rural and urban character.

The French established Fort St. Joseph in 1697 to protect their mission, with the site later controlled by British forces. The region passed through several transitions of power before becoming part of the United States.

The Fort St. Joseph Museum displays artifacts and exhibits about the settlement of four nations: France, Britain, Spain, and the United States. Visitors can learn how different cultures shaped this region over time.

The Amtrak station connects passengers to Chicago year-round via the Blue Water and Wolverine rail services. The location also provides bus connections to larger regional cities.

From 1820 to 1865, the city served as a station on the Underground Railroad, helping people escape toward freedom in Canada. This hidden network risked the safety of those who operated it.

Location: Berrien County

Location: Cass County

Inception: 1827

Elevation above the sea: 209 m

Website: http://ci.niles.mi.us/Default.htm

GPS coordinates: 41.83000,-86.25333

Latest update: December 12, 2025 04:27