Ortonville's rural heritage and historic preservation
Ortonville is a small village of 1,300 people, 50 miles north of downtown Detroit. Considered by locals as the downtown of Brandon Township, the village features a quaint commercial strip on Mill Street, sports facilities and charming historic homes. Ortonville's population began to grow in the mid-1800s, when agricultural workers began moving to the area, and its past is still seen in some of the town’s original structures, including the old town hall and the community’s first post office.
Classic Victorian and ranch-styles listed below township average
Walking along the quiet lanes here will take you past Victorian farmhouses with fish-scale siding, cozy bungalows and ranch-style homes, most of which sit on lots of a half-acre or more. Large front porches are common, especially as you get closer to downtown, while, as you head farther out, you are more likely to find an attached garage. The average listing price is $265,000, which is around $100,000 cheaper than the Brandon Township average. Three-bedroom Victorians with over 2,500 square feet and two-acre lots can be listed for over $330,000, while two-bedroom ranch-style homes have hit the market for less than $160,000.
Local schools have B-ratings and a wide offering of academic programs
Kids of Ortonville are served by Brandon School District, which earns a B-plus grade from Niche for its academics and college preparatory initiatives. Harvey-Swanson Elementary is just south of Mill Street and is within walking distance of most houses in the village. With a B overall rating from Niche, Harvey-Swanson serves 500 of the area’s youngest learners. A short drive south on Ortonville Road will take you to Brandon Middle School and Brandon High, both of which earn B ratings from Niche. Brandon Middle offers unique elective courses like design and innovation and software design. Brandon High is ranked the second-best high school for STEM in the Flint, Michigan area, according to niche. The STEM Pathways Academy is an honors math and science program allowing students to explore different topics and compete at the state level. When you’re in the market for a new page turner, check one out at the Brandon Township Public Library. The library also hosts craft workshops, book club meetings and educational seminars.
Outdoor recreation ranges from fishing to basketball games
For some quality time outdoors, head to Sherman Memorial Park to practice your pitch at one of the baseball fields or use one of the two basketball courts. Head north to Oakfield Road to find Narrin Village Park, where locals can be found picnicking under the covered pavilion and, in the summer months, wading into the cool waters, or fishing in Kearsley Creek.
Local eats in downtown Ortonville and where to find essentials
The community spans an area of around one square mile, making it easy to walk or bike around town. Folks can start their day with a sweet treat and a hearty shake from Impact North, where flavors change with the seasons. Next door is The Village Pub, a popular local spot where you can sip on a refreshing evening drink while catching up with friends or grab a table and chow down on a burger, a hoagie, or a plate of nachos. If you would prefer to make a meal at home, you can pick up the ingredients at Bueche’s Food World on the north side of town.
Photography Contributed By
Scottie Davison
