I'm a long-time Okemite and I confess I've stopped and read this numerous times to remember the various names and just get briefly in touch with the past. There's very little else locally that can transport you to the 19th century.

This is certainly not a major tourist attraction. There is a short history of Okemos including the origin of the name. Interesting local history.

This marker gives you the background on how the town got it's name. It was named for a Native American chief, Okemos, who lived in the vicinity. The local high school team is aptly named the Chieftains (although the depiction of him didn't look at all authentic, so I think they just went to a big O now). Unfortunately, there's little remaining in the vicinity of the sign to indicate this was a town founded in the mid-19th century. They did move some older buildings to a historical park elsewhere in town. Still, it's kind of cool to think how long people have been traversing this very spot. Once there were natives, now there's a Domino's Pizza, a lingerie store, and a martial arts studio.

A very interesting historical marker. One side gives a history of Okemos. The other side is a history of Chief Okemos for whom the town was named. Be sure to read both sides. Located on Okemos Road near the SE corner of Okemos Road and Hamilton Road. Worth stopping to read.