European-American settlement along the Saginaw River began in the 1830s, which was critical to development in the region, as it was navigable inland. Construction of the Saginaw Bay Lighthouse, to mark the entrance to the river, was begun in July 1839 by Captain Stephen Wolverton.
European-American settlement along the Saginaw River started in the 1830s and was crucial for the region's development because it provided access to inland waterways. The construction of the Saginaw Bay Lighthouse, designed to guide ships entering the river, began in July 1839 under Captain Stephen Wolverton's leadership.