Martyn Family History

Scott H. Martyn
Chicago, IL  60611

Genesee County

Image file   Map of Genesee County - 1895

Fenton

Fenton is located in eastern Genesee County. It was first settled in 1834 by Clark Dibble and originally called Dibbleville. In 1837, William Fenton and Robert LeRoy purchased a large plot of land there and registered it under the name of Fentonville. LeRoy built a hotel there the same year and also became the postmaster. Later, Fenton went on to become lieutenant governor of Michigan. The town incorporated with the name of Fenton in 1863.

Flint

Flint, the third largest city in Michigan, is the Genesee County seat. Flint’s recorded history dates back to 1819 when Jacob Smith and his Chippewa Indian wife opened up a trading post there, calling it Grand Traverse. In 1825, Jacob Stevens from New York state became the area’s first settler. After undergoing a few more name changes, like "Todd’s Crossing" and "Sidney", it was called "Flint River" after the Indian name: "Pawanunking," referring to the rocky river bed. Shortened to "Flint" in 1836, it was incorporated as a city in 1855.

Much of Flint’s growth can be credited to the development of the auto industry: The first car designed by Louis Chevrolet was produced here, with the help of Will Durant who formed General Motors.