Cities and Towns in Wexford County, Michigan
Founded in 1840, Wexford County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Wexford County was formed from part of Mackinac County which was named Kautawaubet County until 1843. The city of Cadillac is the county seat. With FIPS code of 165, Wexford County has a population of 33,901 and area of 576 square miles (1,492 km²).
List of all cities in Wexford County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Boon, MI | 49618 | 231 |
| Buckley, MI | 49620 | 231 |
| Cadillac, MI | 49601 | 231 |
| Harrietta, MI | 49638 | 231 |
| Hoxeyville, MI | 49601 | 231 |
| Manton, MI | 49663 | 231 |
| Mesick, MI | 49668 | 231 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wexford County, Michigan
1. Cadillac
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 8.91 square miles
- Population: 10,371 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49601
- Latitude: 44.2511° N
- Longitude: 85.4012° W
Location and History
Cadillac, the county seat of Wexford County, is located in the northwestern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Settled in the late 19th century, Cadillac was originally called Clam Lake before being renamed in 1877 after the French explorer Antoine Laumet de La Mothe, sieur de Cadillac. The town flourished due to its rich natural resources, including timber and waterways, which powered early industries like sawmills. Cadillac became a key railroad hub in the late 1800s, further boosting its development. Over time, Cadillac transitioned from an industrial town to a tourist destination, thanks to its scenic lakes and forests, which provide year-round recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cadillac is served by Cadillac Area Public Schools, including Cadillac High School. Notable landmarks include Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell, which offer fishing, boating, and hiking along their shores. The Cadillac Pathway is a popular trail system for hikers, bikers, and skiers. Heritage attractions include the Shay Locomotive at the Wexford County Historical Museum and the historic Cobbs & Mitchell Building, reflecting Cadillac’s logging heritage. The town is also home to the annual North American Snow Festival, celebrating winter sports and outdoor activities. Cadillac’s charming downtown, parks, and proximity to state forests make it a key hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Manton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.56 square miles
- Population: 1,287 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49663
- Latitude: 44.4109° N
- Longitude: 85.3987° W
Location and History
Manton, a small city located in northern Wexford County, developed as a logging town in the mid-19th century. The arrival of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad in the 1870s spurred growth, transforming Manton into a vital transportation hub for timber and agricultural products. Manton is historically known for the 1889 courthouse dispute, where residents protested the relocation of the county seat from Manton to Cadillac, resulting in a violent confrontation. Although Cadillac remained the county seat, Manton has since thrived as a peaceful rural community with strong agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Manton Consolidated Schools, including Manton High School, serve the local student population. Key landmarks include the picturesque Manton Pathway and Cedar Creek, which are popular spots for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping. The historic Manton Depot is a reminder of the town’s railroad past and now serves as a community center. Manton also hosts the annual Harvest Festival, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage with parades, farm displays, and family-friendly activities. The surrounding forests and state parks provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, making Manton an attractive destination for nature lovers.
3. Mesick
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.04 square miles
- Population: 394 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49668
- Latitude: 44.4055° N
- Longitude: 85.7229° W
Location and History
Mesick is a small village in southwestern Wexford County, known as the “Mushroom Capital of the United States.” Established in the late 19th century, Mesick grew as a logging community due to its location near the Manistee River and its fertile surrounding lands. Over time, Mesick became famous for its annual mushroom harvests, particularly the prized morel mushrooms that grow abundantly in the nearby woods. Mesick has embraced its natural surroundings, with the Manistee National Forest providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and contributing to the village’s laid-back, rural atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mesick Consolidated Schools, including Mesick High School, serve local students. Major landmarks include the Mesick Mushroom Festival, held annually in May, which draws mushroom hunters and visitors from all over Michigan for mushroom hunting contests, parades, and festivities. The Hodenpyl Dam Pond is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and camping, offering scenic views of the forested landscape. The nearby Manistee River is ideal for canoeing and tubing, making Mesick a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Mesick’s rich natural environment and small-town charm offer a unique experience for both residents and visitors.
4. Buckley
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.00 square mile
- Population: 775 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49620
- Latitude: 44.4992° N
- Longitude: 85.6786° W
Location and History
Buckley, a small village in northern Wexford County, was founded in the late 19th century as a result of the growing timber industry. Named after early settler Horace Buckley, the village developed around the Buckley & Douglas Lumber Company, which played a central role in the local economy for many years. The construction of the Chicago and West Michigan Railway helped connect Buckley to larger markets, enabling it to grow as a logging and agricultural center. Although the timber industry has since declined, Buckley remains a close-knit community known for its agricultural heritage and rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Buckley Community Schools, including Buckley High School, serve the local student population. The village is best known for the Buckley Old Engine Show, held annually in August. This event celebrates Buckley’s agricultural and industrial past with antique tractors, steam engines, and other machinery on display, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Recreational opportunities can be found at nearby lakes, such as Hodenpyl Lake and Green Lake, which offer fishing, boating, and camping. Buckley’s peaceful rural setting, combined with its historical charm, makes it an ideal place for those looking to enjoy small-town life and outdoor recreation.
5. Harrietta
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 0.57 square miles
- Population: 156 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49638
- Latitude: 44.3147° N
- Longitude: 85.7237° W
Location and History
Harrietta is a tiny village located in the southwestern corner of Wexford County, surrounded by the expansive Manistee National Forest. Founded in the late 19th century, Harrietta’s economy was originally driven by logging and sawmills, supported by the construction of a railroad line that connected the village to larger towns. Although the timber industry has waned, Harrietta has maintained its character as a quiet, rural community nestled in natural beauty. The village’s proximity to national forests and waterways has made it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Harrietta students attend schools in nearby districts, such as Mesick or Cadillac. The village’s major landmark is the Harrietta State Fish Hatchery, Michigan’s oldest operating fish hatchery, established in 1901. The hatchery raises fish such as trout and salmon, which are then stocked in Michigan’s lakes and rivers. Visitors can tour the facility and learn about the state’s fish conservation efforts. Harrietta is also close to the Huron-Manistee National Forests, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. Its tranquil environment and connection to Michigan’s natural resources make Harrietta a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventure.
6. Boon
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 0.50 square miles
- Population: 211 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49618
- Latitude: 44.3050° N
- Longitude: 85.6095° W
Location and History
Boon is a small unincorporated community in Wexford County, originally established as a railroad stop in the late 19th century. Its development was tied to the expansion of logging operations in the area, and like many towns in northern Michigan, Boon thrived during the peak of the timber industry. As logging declined, Boon transitioned into a quiet, rural community. Today, Boon serves as a peaceful retreat, known for its scenic surroundings, including nearby forests, lakes, and streams.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Boon students attend schools in neighboring towns, such as Cadillac or Manton. The most notable landmark in Boon is its proximity to the Manistee National Forest, which offers countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The community also hosts the annual Boon Country Festival, which celebrates small-town life with music, games, and local food. The nearby Caberfae Peaks Ski and Golf Resort offers year-round outdoor activities, from skiing in the winter to golfing and hiking in the summer. Boon’s rural setting and access to natural attractions make it a quiet, yet appealing, destination for nature lovers.
