Battle Creek

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Battle Creek
City
Motto(s): 
"Cereal City"
Founded1831
Founded byJohn Calvin
Named forBattle Creek River
Government
 • TypeMayor-Council
 • BodyBattle Creek City Commission
Area
 • Total113.3 km2 (43.73 sq mi)
 • Land110.4 km2 (42.61 sq mi)
 • Water2.9 km2 (1.12 sq mi)
Elevation
260 m (853 ft)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total51,286
 • Density464.7/km2 (1,203.6/sq mi)
Time zoneUTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
 • Summer (DST)UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP codes
49014-49018
Area code(s)269
Websitebattlecreekmi.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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

Retrieved from "https://wikimd.com/w/index.php?title=Battle_Creek&oldid=5107837"

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD