Crane Township Officials Visit Descendant of Township Founder

On July 11, a small delegation from Crane Township traveled to Hillsdale, Michigan, to meet Louise Van Aken Worms, a great-great-great-granddaughter of Oliver Crane, the township’s namesake and one of its earliest settlers.

Louise is a direct descendant through Oliver’s son Augustus, who was notably the first of Oliver’s children born in Crane Township. Joining the visit were Kevin Stuart, Township Trustee; Kristine Stuart, Cemetery Sexton; Carol Razo, Fiscal Officer; and Art Razo.

During the visit, Louise graciously gave the group a guided tour of Hillsdale, including historic and scenic locations such as Mrs. Stock’s Park, the Hillsdale College campus, the college’s shooting range, and Oak Grove Cemetery. She also shared treasured family photographs and stories, offering a meaningful connection between Crane Township’s present and its founding legacy.

“We were honored to meet Louise and learn more about Oliver Crane’s descendants,” said Trustee Kevin Stuart. “It was a special experience to see how his legacy has carried through generations.”

Louise plans to attend Crane Township’s Bicentennial Celebration in August, bringing the story full circle as the township marks 200 years since its founding in 1825.

For more information about the upcoming Bicentennial Celebration, contact cranetwp@yahoo.com.