Local Pioneers

Local Pioneers. . , Several Native American tribes, primarily the Ottawa, Miami, and Potowatomi, occupied the South Haven area before white settlement began in the 1830s. Members of these tribes spent their days hunting and foraging the forested land and fishing the Black River and small streams. White birch bark was collected for domestic purposes, such as building canoes, wigwams, and dishes. Maple syrup was also harvested and traded or sold to nearby tribes. , , Potawatomi Chief Simon Pokagon was a notable figure in the area, living from 1830 to 1899. His tribe coined the name "Nik-o-nong," referring to South Haven, which translates to "beautiful sunsets." Chief Pokagon was an educated advocate for his people and became a well-known public figure and author. His most well-known speaking engagement was at the World Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893, where he advocated for peace between his people and white Americans.