Town Name: Sickles
Population: 60
Reason For Becoming A Lost Town: Lost its post office to Ithaca and gradually declined in importance.
Town History: The place was first dreamed out by Judge William Sickels in December, 1880. He had purchased a large tract of land there, and the idea of a country village in that place struck him favorably. So he had 15 acres platted along in January, 1882, and recorded in the office of the register of deeds of the county. The plat was afterward increased to about 33 acres. When the matter was faily started, others became interested, Sheldon Wight taking an active part in establishing a business center. He opened a store for the sale of general merchandise. George Little started a blacksmith shop in its early years.
Other buildings located in town were a grist mill, cheese factory, Methodist Church, and two lodges. An Oddfellows Lodge was established in the late 1890s and a Gleaners Lodge was created in 1897. All that remains is the old general store, but currently sits empty.
First postmaster was the founder's wife and was succeeded by a few others until the post office closed due to the establishment of Rural Free Delivery.
Source: Sickels - Hamilton Township Gratiot Co. Michigan (mfhn.com)
Cache Description: Cache is a small pill bottle wrapped in black duct tape.
Notes of Interest: Located on the grounds of the Hamilton Township Hall. Stealth may be required.
This cache is part of the Michigan's Lost Towns Cache Series.
