Muskegon, city, seat of Muskegon County, western Michigan, a major port of entry on Muskegon Lake (formed at the mouth of the Muskegon River) and Lake Michigan; incorporated as a city 1869. Paper, engine parts, office furniture, industrial machinery, and metal products are produced in the city. A community college, various facilities for outdoor recreation, and a performing arts theater are here. The community developed in the 1830s around a trading post established here in 1810. From 1850 to 1890 it was a major sawmilling center. The city was badly damaged by fire in 1874 and 1891. Its name is derived from an Ottawa term for “river with marshes.” Population 40,823 (1980); 40,283 (1990); 40,105 (2000).
