The cities of Livonia and Taylor were at one time a 'true township' (36 square miles). Some townships are less than 36 square miles because of their proximity to one of Michigan's Great Lakes. Over time, some townships have lost area as villages and cities were established. A true township is 6 miles by 6 miles (total of 36 square miles). Michigan townships were established utilizing a grid pattern. There are regional distinctions between the responsibilities and operation of townships. Townships are generally found in 3 regions of the United States: New England, Mid-Atlantic and the Midwest. The Northwest Ordinance enacted in 1787 by Congress established townships as the initial government of territories which later became states.

Townships were actually in place before most of the Midwestern states had achieved statehood. This represents more than 20% of the United States population. More than 60 million people live in US towns and townships. There are more than 16,600 towns and townships in the United States.

Michigan is one of 20 states that currently have some form of township government.

What is township