Town Profile

History, Lakes + Community: Milford

by Lauren Caggiano | photos by Mike Deak + The Papers Incorporated

Milford— with a population of about 1,500— may be small, but its small-town charm packs a mean punch. From festivals to natural resources like a public beach, Milford has a lot to offer locals and visitors alike. Milford was established in 1836 and was incorporated in 1880, and today is still considered a friendly and safe place to call ‘home’ for all ages.

Tricia Gall, the town clerk and resident, paints a picture of Milford’s local flavor and scene. “Among the main attractions, we typically hold Milford Fest every year in the downtown area,” she said. “The Milford Lion’s Club puts it on. However, we’re not having it this year again due to COVID-19. Our hope is that it’ll be coming back soon.”

In the meantime, she said there’s still plenty to take in, year-round. For example, Waubee Lake is a small freshwater lake situated two miles southeast of Milford. Waubee Park is located on the north side of the lake and is a small, family-oriented park with a playground, lake access for boat launching, and a clean lake for swimming and fishing. According to Gall, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and some quiet time.

Photo property of The Papers Incorporated

Recreational time aside, there’s a time and a place for work in Milford as well, of course. Gall said the area is home to such employers as Maple Leaf Farms, Chore-Time Brock, The Papers Inc. (woot-woot! A shameless plug for the publisher of LAKElife), Lake City Bank, and others. There’s also local character in the form of mom-and-pop businesses and nonprofits. For example, Harvest with a Heart is making an impact by uplifting residents’ health and well-being. In addition to operating the coffee shop, located at 103 S. Main St., they also offer youth programming to enrich the community. “It’s a coffee shop with a purpose,” Gall said. “They hold different events… my youngest is learning how to play chess.” They also offer crafts and science-based activities.

On the note of enrichment, the Milford Public Library, is a gem in its own right. Since 1919, the library has been a cornerstone of the Milford community, thanks in part to the generosity of Andrew Carnegie. The institution makes literacy and educational opportunities accessible by offering equal access to materials for all ages. The summer reading program is just one example.

In short, community pride is alive and well here. One example? “We have a really great volunteer fire department,” said Gall. “We’ve been fortunate that ours is really strong and continues to be a great group of guys. It’s nice to have it right here in town, and they do a great job with community outreach, too.”

Whether you’re just passing through or staying for a day, the town of Milford is a great example of small town Indiana charm.

Photo property of The Papers Incorporated

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The Lake Tippecanoe Property Owners (LTPO) is an organization for the preservation and love of our lakes. Lake Tippecanoe is Indiana’s deepest natural lake. Tippy connects directly to Lake James (Little Tippy) and Oswego Lake— lots of acreage. LTPO focuses on lake preservation, meaning the control of lake weeds, shoreline preservation, and boating etiquette. The association hosts fireworks, a flotilla, fish fry, dances, and much more. You don’t have to live on the lake to love the lake and its wonders. Slide your boat in at a boat ramp, or just sit on the shore. Bottom line? The members of LTPO and residents meet once a month to share committee news, and the public is welcome. Check out LTPO.org for updates and events.

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