New book explores the Kalamazoo River's history

A new book touting tales of the Kalamazoo River invites readers to consider the relationship between the waterway and the people who have lived along its banks. It is also an occasion to think about the river’s rich history, its past challenges, and its future condition.

The Department of Geography’s Lisa Dechano-Cook and Mary L. Brooks published “The Kalamazoo River,” through Arcadia Publishing in August. The book discusses the waterway’s historic uses as well as some of the environmental issues that have plagued the river, including the 2010 Enbridge oil spill. It offers a visual account of the river’s history, particularly through 202 photos that span from the 1880s to present day.

Inspired by the river’s natural beauty, the authors visited local historic societies and libraries to curate photos, stories and personal accounts of life along the riverbed. They visited homes of southwest Michigan residents who have lived along the waterway for decades, many of whom were willing to share their experiences and photos.

Dechano-Cook and Brooks note that hearing so many fascinating stories was the best aspect of conducting research for the book. “The people who have lived along the river were the most interesting,” the authors say. “They want readers to know what a beautiful gem they have in the Kalamazoo River and to share their stories and photo collections.”

The book also discusses the many ways in which the river has impacted southwest Michigan’s landscape and economy. “Companies sprung up along the river over time, but what is interesting is how those companies changed from industry to tourism back and forth,” the authors say. “The largest environmental issue was the contamination that resulted from the many industries along the river,” they add. “No one can predict the future use of the river, but hopefully people have learned a few things over the years about pollution, waste, contamination and over usage.”

DeChano-Cook is an associate professor in the Department of Geography and Brooks is an administrative assistant in the department. The book is available through Amazon.