Battle Creek

Battle Creek
City
Motto(s):  "Cereal City"
Founded	1831
Founded by	John Calvin
Named for	Battle Creek River
Government
• Type	Mayor-Council
• Body	Battle Creek City Commission
Area
• Total	113.3 km2 (43.73 sq mi)
• Land	110.4 km2 (42.61 sq mi)
• Water	2.9 km2 (1.12 sq mi)
Elevation	260 m (853 ft)
Population  (2020)
• Total	51,286
• Density	464.7/km2 (1,203.6/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP codes	49014-49018
Area code(s)	269
Website	battlecreekmi.gov

Battle Creek is a city located in the state of Michigan, United States. It is the county seat of Calhoun County and is known as the "Cereal City" due to its history as the headquarters of several major cereal companies. The city is situated along the banks of the Battle Creek River.

History

Battle Creek was founded in 1831 by John Calvin, who named the city after the Battle Creek River. The area was originally inhabited by the Potawatomi and Ottawa Native American tribes. The city experienced rapid growth in the late 19th century with the establishment of cereal manufacturing companies such as Kellogg's and Post.

Geography

Battle Creek covers a total area of 43.73 square miles, of which 42.61 square miles is land and 1.12 square miles is water. The city is located in southwestern Michigan, approximately 25 miles east of Kalamazoo and 115 miles west of Detroit. The elevation of Battle Creek is 853 feet above sea level.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Battle Creek has a population of 51,286 people. The city has a population density of 1,203.6 people per square mile. The racial makeup of Battle Creek is diverse, with a significant African American population. The city has a median household income of $39,493, and the poverty rate is 23.7%.

Economy

Battle Creek's economy is primarily driven by the food manufacturing industry. The city is home to the headquarters of major cereal companies such as Kellogg's and Post. These companies have a significant presence in the city and contribute to its nickname, "Cereal City." Other industries in Battle Creek include healthcare, education, and manufacturing.

Culture and Attractions

Battle Creek offers a variety of cultural and recreational attractions. The city is known for its annual Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival, which features hot air balloon launches, air shows, and fireworks. The Binder Park Zoo is a popular destination for families, showcasing a wide range of animal species. The Kellogg Arena hosts various sporting events and concerts throughout the year.

Education

Battle Creek is served by the Battle Creek Public Schools district, which operates several elementary, middle, and high schools in the city. The city is also home to several private schools and charter schools. Higher education institutions in Battle Creek include Kellogg Community College and the Western Michigan University College of Aviation.

Notable People

Battle Creek has been home to several notable individuals, including:

• C.W. Post - Founder of Post Cereals
• Will Keith Kellogg - Founder of Kellogg's
• Sojourner Truth - Abolitionist and women's rights activist
• Tony Dungy - Former NFL coach and sports analyst
• Carla Hall - Celebrity chef and television personality

External links

• Official website
• Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce