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Originally a fur trading post for French and Native American trappers, Grand Rapids has grown into a center of international commerce. Grand Rapids was given its name by early French settlers for the mile-long rapids running through the Grand River. In the 1800s, the river dropped nearly 18 feet over one mile of river forming steep rapids. The rapids have since been tamed by control dams and fish ladders, and the vibrant winding energy of the local expressway has taken its place.

The Hopewell Indians, known for their large burial mounds, originally occupied the Grand River Valley. About 300 years ago, the Ottawa Indians moved into the area and lived in several villages along the river. When the British and French arrived, the Ottawa traded fur pelts for European metal and textile goods.

One French trader named Louis Campau established a trading post there in 1826. Campau became perhaps the most important settler when, in 1831, he bought what is now the entire downtown business district of Grand Rapids from the federal government for $90.

By 1838 the settlement had incorporated as a village encompassing an area of approximately three-quarters of a mile. The city became known as the “Furniture Capital of America.” The name was given to Grand Rapids in the mid-1800's for its reputation for its high quality furniture. Grand Rapids had at one time over 150 furniture companies including Widdicomb, Baker, and Sligh. “Made in Grand Rapids” was known throughout the world. There are still many large and small furniture manufacturing firms in the Grand Rapids area. In 1881, the country's first hydro-electric plant was installed on the City's west side. In 1945 Grand Rapids was the first city in the United States to add fluoride to its drinking water.

Gerald R. Ford, our longtime congressman from the 5st district, succeeded Richard Nixon to become the 38th President of the United States on August 9, 1974. His preseidential museum is located along the west bank of Grand River.