Introduction to Rochester Hills, Michigan
Rochester Hills, Michigan is 23 miles N of Detroit, Michigan. Rochester Hills is an affluent suburb of the Metro Detroit area. The residents are primarily professional and skilled workers. The northwestern portion of the town features luxurious homes and communities. A large number of business executives working in Detroit as well as professional athletes reside in this section of town. Rochester Hills is home to numerous corporate headquarters from a variety of industries including electronic research, plastic injection molding, structural engineering, tool and die, distribution and computer technology.
Rochester Hills History
The first settlers arrived in 1817. They were primarily from the state of New York, England and Canada. In 1835 Avon Township was established and consisted primarily of family farms. The location of the township was chosen due to the three local creeks which could supply water power for the mills. In 1850 the saw mills were thriving. Beginning in the early 1900's residents began commuting to the factories in the nearby cities for work. Some community members sold their farmland and relocated to large, nearby cities. The farmland was purchased and converted to housing areas and huge estates.
Rochester Hills Attractions
- Bloomer Park
- Meadow Brook Hall is an impressive Tudor-revival style mansion situated at Oakland University
- Yates Cider Mill features a petting farm and pony rides
- Historic Stoney Creek Village
- Family Festival
- The Rochester Hills Museum is located at the historic Van Hoosen Farm which also includes a pioneer schoolhouse and the Van Hoosen Farmhouse
- Sloan Museum
- Walter P Chrysler Museum
Rochester Hills Activities
Thelma G. Spencer Park includes a lake with a beach area, boat rental, paths for walking and bicycle riding and recreational facilities. Borden Park is a notable location for athletic activities. It includes five soccer fields, lighted athletic fields, roller hockey rinks and other sports venues. Residents enjoy the walking path which traverses through the city. The nearby Paint Creek Trail is situated in a scenic wooded area along a stream. The close by Stony Creek Loop is located in a grassy meadow. Stony Creek Metropark Trail is a beautiful area which was formerly the estate of the Sheldon Family.
Rochester Hills Higher Education
Rochester College and Oakland University are located in the area.