Basic Info
"Mishawaka, the Princess City, lies nestled along the meandering path of the St. Joseph River. The city is named after Princess Mishawaka, daughter of Shawnee Chief Elkhart. The legend of her romance with white trapper Deadshot, and abduction by her jealous Indian suitor Grey Wolf, characterizes the mixture of romance and history still found in Mishawaka today.
The city’s history began with the discovery of bog iron deposits in the early 1830’s. Settlers arriving to mine these deposits founded the town of St. Joseph Iron Works in 1831. Within a couple years, the town had a blast furnace, a general store, a tavern, and about 200 residents. Business prospered, and in 1838, St. Joseph Iron Works and three other small towns nearby were incorporated into one— Mishawaka.
In September of 1872, a fire destroyed three quarters of Mishawaka’s business district. However, the persevering citizens rebuilt and attracted new industry. The Dodge Manufacturing Company, Perkins Windmills and the Mishawaka Woolen and Rubber Company (later Ball Band then Uniroyal) all helped the town to prosper industrially. The town also grew agriculturally. In the late 1800’s, the city gained the title as the ""Peppermint Capital of the World"" due to the rich black loam found in the area that yield great quantities of mint."
- www.mishawakacity.com
"St. Joseph County and the surrounding region provide more attractions than the average visitor can see in a single day. So, have fun and stay awhile! The area offers a variety of fairs and festivals, a top-notch zoo, historical and interactive museums adults and children alike can enjoy. But if Mother Nature is more your style, we offer gardens, parks and even a world-class waterway, perfect for kayaking. The East Race Waterway is North America’s first artificial whitewater course, hosting national and international slalom races featuring Olympic champions. Many explore the numerous universities that are abundant in the region. The University of Notre Dame ranks as the top tourist attraction in the region.
The performing arts shine brightly in St. Joseph County. From the Broadway Theater League that attracts national touring Broadway shows to the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, perfection never sounded better. The Morris Performing Arts Center houses both groups.
Lodging, dining and shopping opportunities abound to make your stay a perfect one. For meeting planners, the Century Center, Joyce Center, Palais Royale and other venues offer the capacity and services to host conventions, meetings and seminars. "
- www.sjchamber.org
"Welcome to South Bend/Mishawaka, Indiana, home of Notre Dame's Fighting Irish and so much more!
Comfortably nestled along the meandering banks of the St. Joseph River, South Bend/Mishawaka is a beautiful community with rich history and a wealth of cultural, recreational, sporting and entertainment opportunities.
World-class restaurants, attractions and fun activities for the entire family are sure to make your South Bend/Mishawaka experience memorable and enjoyable. We have a wide variety of hotels and places to stay. Explore our outdoor and recreational activities, museums, gardens and unique festivals and events.
South Bend/Mishawaka enjoys four full seasons of beautiful springs, comfortable summers, colorful autumns and invigorating winters. Experience a cheerful community that will welcome you from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave.
Convenient transportation starts when you touch down at South Bend Regional Airport, and carries you along during your entire stay, with car rentals, buses, limos and more. Enjoy our community and prepare for a beautiful, accommodating and exciting trip to South Bend/Mishawaka."
- www.exploresouthbend.org
