[3] The Legislature of Michigan formally organized Carmel Township on March 21, 1839.

Most of the early settlers were from New York and Vermont and were attracted to the township by its rich agricultural land.

Carmel's early history was identified with Charlotte, around which most of the principal settlements were made.

The earliest industry was a brick and tile factory established in section 15 by the firm of Dunning and Chappell employing eight men.

13.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.