Michiana History

Michiana was one of the last resort communities to develop in the southwest corner of Berrien County because the densely wooded and marshy terrain made access difficult. It was not until 1927 that the area was divided between the states of Michigan and Indiana and developed simultaneously by the Long Beach Development Company.

A tree located at the corner of Michiana Drive and Ponchartrain Trail (now gone) became the famous landmark for the community. Known as the Signal Oak, the Long Beach Company built an amphitheater around it to entertain prospective buyers with Indian ceremonies. This facility later became a meeting place for the Michiana Community Association that controlled the business of the community.

The Michigan development was the first to be incorporated and was given the name of Michiana Village in 1946, the date of its incorporation. Since then, the Village has evolved from a mere vacation resort to a healthy, year-round, prime location community.

The Village of Michiana is a small, residential community located on the border of Indiana. It is situated near sandy beaches with homes nestled amidst woodlands and dunes. Although the beaches are open to the public, the Village provides no public parking. The Village of Michiana has a vibrant resident community; in addition, many housing units are owned by Chicago-area residents who enjoy the leisurely, attractive life-style offered by the community from adults to families with young children.

Community Vision

To remain a quiet, residential community dedicated to the needs and comforts of its residents.