Cities and Towns in Cass County, Michigan
Founded in 1829, Cass County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Cass County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Cassopolis is the county seat. With FIPS code of 27, Cass County has a population of 51,483 and area of 508 square miles (1,316 km²).
List of all cities in Cass County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cassopolis, MI | 49031 | 269 |
| Dowagiac, MI | 49047 | 269 |
| Edwardsburg, MI | 49112 | 269 |
| 49130 | 269 | |
| Jones, MI | 49061 | 269 |
| Marcellus, MI | 49067 | 269 |
| Union, MI | 49130 | 269 |
| Vandalia, MI | 49095 | 269 |
Major Cities and Towns in Cass County, Michigan
1. Dowagiac
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 4.52 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,684 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49047
- Latitude: 41.9842° N
- Longitude: 86.1097° W
Location and History
Dowagiac, located in the northern part of Cass County, is named after the Potawatomi word meaning “foraging ground.” The city was settled in the 1840s, shortly after the completion of the Michigan Central Railroad, which helped establish Dowagiac as a key transportation hub. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Dowagiac became an industrial center, known for manufacturing farm equipment and tools. Its industrial roots are preserved in its historic downtown area, which features a mix of Victorian architecture and modern businesses. The city has a rich Native American heritage, with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi playing a significant role in its history and development.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dowagiac is served by Dowagiac Union Schools, with Dowagiac Union High School being the largest educational institution. The city’s key landmarks include Dowagiac Woods Nature Sanctuary, a preserve with trails through forested land, offering opportunities for hiking and nature study. The Dowagiac Area History Museum explores the city’s industrial and Native American heritage. The Beckwith Theatre Company presents local plays and cultural performances. Another significant landmark is The Pokagon Band Community Center, which hosts events and celebrations of the local Potawatomi culture. The annual Dowagiac Ice Time Festival and Summer Concert Series bring residents and visitors together for seasonal activities and entertainment.
2. Cassopolis
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.23 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,774 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49031
- Latitude: 41.9159° N
- Longitude: 86.0109° W
Location and History
Cassopolis, the county seat of Cass County, is located near the southeastern shores of Stone Lake. Founded in 1831, the village was named after Lewis Cass, the Michigan territorial governor. Cassopolis played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, with many African American families settling in the area. The village also became an agricultural center in the 19th century, benefiting from its fertile land and the arrival of the railroad. Cassopolis has preserved much of its historical character, with many of its early buildings and homes still standing. The village is known for its strong sense of community and historic ties to both African American heritage and rural life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cassopolis is served by Cassopolis Public Schools, with Ross Beatty Junior/Senior High School being the primary educational institution. Notable landmarks include Stone Lake, a central feature of the village, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. The Cass County Courthouse, a historic building in the heart of downtown, showcases beautiful 19th-century architecture. The Bonine House, a stop on the Underground Railroad, is a museum dedicated to the village’s abolitionist past. Dr. T.K. Lawless Park, just outside the village, offers extensive trails, fishing, and camping facilities. The annual Cassopolis Pioneer Days celebrates the village’s rich history and community spirit.
3. Edwardsburg
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.97 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,259 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49112
- Latitude: 41.7956° N
- Longitude: 86.0817° W
Location and History
Edwardsburg, located in the southwestern part of Cass County, near the Indiana border, was founded in 1828 and named after Abraham Edwards, an early settler. Edwardsburg initially developed as a farming community and became a key transportation route between Detroit and Chicago, aided by its proximity to major railroads and roads. The village experienced growth throughout the 19th century due to its location on the route to larger markets. While agriculture remains important to the local economy, Edwardsburg has become a residential community for people working in nearby South Bend, Indiana, and Elkhart, Indiana.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Edwardsburg is part of the Edwardsburg Public Schools district, with Edwardsburg High School serving local students. Major landmarks include Christiana Creek, which offers recreational opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Edwardsburg Historical Museum highlights the area’s history, from its Native American roots to its role as a transportation hub. Garver Lake is a popular destination for boating and fishing, while Donnell Lake attracts visitors for water activities. The village’s close proximity to the University of Notre Dame in South Bend enhances its cultural and educational connections. Edwardsburg hosts an annual Memorial Day Parade, celebrating the community’s strong patriotic traditions.
4. Marcellus
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.88 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,198 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49067
- Latitude: 42.0294° N
- Longitude: 85.8156° W
Location and History
Marcellus is located in the northeastern part of Cass County, surrounded by numerous small lakes and rolling farmland. The village was founded in 1870, named after a classical Roman figure. Marcellus developed as an agricultural community, with farming and milling operations driving much of its early economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the town’s growth by providing connections to larger markets. Despite its small size, Marcellus has maintained a strong agricultural tradition, with a close-knit community that values its rural heritage and peaceful environment.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Marcellus is served by Marcellus Community Schools, with Marcellus High School as the primary educational institution. Hemlock Lake and Fish Lake, located nearby, are popular destinations for fishing, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The Marcellus Historical Society Museum preserves the town’s agricultural and railroad heritage with exhibits and artifacts. Dr. Nathan Thomas House, a former stop on the Underground Railroad, highlights the area’s abolitionist history. Marcellus Township Park provides outdoor recreation opportunities, while the annual Marcellus Bluegill Frolic, a summer festival, draws locals and visitors together to celebrate the community’s agricultural roots and history.
5. Vandalia
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.39 square miles
- Population: Approximately 301 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49095
- Latitude: 41.9186° N
- Longitude: 85.9117° W
Location and History
Vandalia is a small village in the eastern part of Cass County, known for its significant role in the Underground Railroad. The village was settled in the 1840s and became a haven for African Americans escaping slavery, largely due to the efforts of local Quaker and Free African American communities. Vandalia’s history is closely linked to the nearby settlement of Young’s Prairie, where many abolitionists helped fleeing slaves find freedom. Over the years, Vandalia remained a small, rural community, maintaining its historical identity while developing a close-knit, agricultural-based economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Vandalia is served by Cassopolis Public Schools, with students typically attending Ross Beatty Junior/Senior High School in nearby Cassopolis. Key landmarks include The Underground Railroad Society of Cass County and The Bonine House, both of which are dedicated to preserving the village’s role in the abolitionist movement. Vandalia Community Park offers outdoor space for sports and community events. The annual Underground Railroad Days festival commemorates the village’s history with tours, reenactments, and educational programs. Chain Lake and Arthur Dodd Memorial Park, located nearby, provide recreational opportunities for camping, fishing, and hiking in a serene, natural setting.