At the southernmost tip of Michigan, on the banks of the St. Joseph River, the first settlers set up Fort St. Joseph and a trading post in 1691, later became known as Niles, Mich. Over the course of many years, the fort was conquered by four different groups of people—the British, the Native Americans, the Spanish and the Americans—earning Niles the nickname the “City of Four Flags.” The name Niles originated from Hezekiah Niles, editor of a Baltimore newspaper, the “Niles Register.” Niles was also once known as the “Gateway of Commerce and Settlement” for West America due to the fact that it was once a major trading area and passageway for those bound west. The original train station still exists today and has been a site in several movies like “Continental Divide” with John Belushi and “Midnight Run” with Robert DeNiro.

Niles has multiple schools. There are five elementary buildings, two junior highs, and one high school, Niles High School. The first school in the city opened in 1820 to provide the Potawatomi Indians the educational and religious support they desired from the government. Niles Community School System is a national award-winning system that offers children and young adults multiple chances to advance in life and grow successfully. Nearly 80 percent of high school graduates enter college. Lake Michigan College and Southwestern University provide plenty of opportunities for those seeking higher education.

The Dodge Brothers, founders of Dodge Car Company, were born and raised in Niles. In 1997 and 1999, Niles was the site of the U.S.C.A. National Canoe Races. Each year since 1997, an event called the National Dragon Boat Races has been held by Niles on the St. Joseph River. The Niles Haunted House Scream Park also attracts thrill-seekers while the annual Apple Festival and Hunter Ice Festival tantalize the taste buds and provide activities for everyone.