Historical Society
The Cascade Historical Society is dedicated to ensuring that present and future generations will not only know the significance of traditions of the area but also will learn from the past and recognize the need to preserve the historical heritage that has been bestowed upon them. We have photos, newspaper clippings, journals, diaries and other memorabilia. We also have been compiling a database of items in our files. If you have items which you would like to donate, we would appreciate hearing from you.
We meet the first Thursday of every month, except July, at 10:00 am in the Cascade Historical Museum. This building is located at 2839 Thornapple River Drive near Cascade Road and is the old Cascade Township Hall. Come experience Cascade history with us. If you would like us to search our records for your family’s history, please e-mail us at
cascadehistory@yahoo.com.
Want to support the Historical Museum and receive our newsletter? Sign up to be a Cascade Historical Society member with our
Membership Application.
Your History Online
Check out the Cascade Historical Society's web research tool. We have over 5400 records on Cascade residents!
Your History Online
Cascade Cemetery Walking Tour
Peter Cullen, 15, a sophomore at Forest Hills Eastern High School, has completed research and information on a Cascade Cemetery Walking Tour, which includes interesting stories of people buried in the Cascade Cemetery. Peter, an Eagle Scout Candidate, completed the project as part of his requirements to attain the rank of Eagle Scout as a member of Boy Scout Troop 334 at Cascade Christian Church.
Members of the Cascade Historic Society applaud Peter for completing this project which recognizes the dedication of the founders of our area to whom we owe so much.
Peter’s research on over twenty Cascade residents buried in the cemetery is included in a brochure and in a booklet which he has written.
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Cascade Cemetery Biographies
Cascade Cemetery Walking Tour
Cascade Cemetery Resources
Cascade Historical Newsletter Articles
Celebrating the Irish in Cascade
July 4th History
Suburban Life Newspapers
Recently, the Cascade Historical Society discovered original copies of the Suburban Life, a weekly newspaper that started in 1955. The Suburban Life was published covering local news for what was called the A.C.E. area, Ada, Cascade, and Eastmont. These editions, from 1955-1968, are now available for viewing online through the Kent District Library website and give an interesting perspective with articles and photographs on how things were in the area.
Click here to view newspapers.
Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Each year, the Cascade Historical Society, in partnership with the Township’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA), invites community members of all ages to their free, annual, holiday tree lighting ceremony.
The festivities tend to include a tree lighting outside the Cascade Historical Museum, a musical performance by The Original Dickens Carolers, giveaways for children, light snacks and beverages, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.