Bellaire, MI

Bellaire is Antrim County's seat, set where the Intermediate River separates Forest Home and Kearney townships. The village began with a post office called Keno in 1879; the name changed to Bellaire the next year, and the county offices followed from Elk Rapids after a close, contested move. Lumber and waterways helped shape the early town, while today's local landmarks include the historic courthouse and Short's Brewing Company. Bellaire is northern Michigan with a river through the middle and a county seat that had to win its place.