Flint

Flint History

Flint's historic roots can be traced back to 1819 when Jacob Smith and his wife, who was a Chippewa Indian, opened up a trading post here, calling it Grand Traverse. Flint went through numerous name changes such as "Todd's Crossing", "Sidney" and "Flint River" until in 1836 it was shortened to Flint.

Without the auto industry Flint's growth would not have been quite so rapid. With the production of the first car designed by Louis Chevrolet and the help of Will Durant, the General Motors founder, Flint's population sky rocketed.

Jobs were abundant, but housing was not. Surrounding the factory was a "tent" city. When a flu epidemic swept Flint, spitting became against the law and people were encouraged to leave work or be reported if they even sneezed. Because of the housing shortage lumbering towns grew at a quicker pace to keep up with the demand.

Flint's downtown area has now grown to a cultural showcase and the emphasis of the auto industry is still prevalent today.