[6] As a representative of the Ottawa nation, he participated in negotiations for the Treaty of Washington (1836) that granted a vast expanse of Michigan to the US Federal Government.

[4] The name was changed March 8, 1843, to Osceola, after the Seminole chief who achieved renown in Florida.

The low rolling hills[7] of Osceola County were completely wooded prior to settlement; at present about half of the area has been cleared and converted to agricultural or urban use.

The county government operates the jail, maintains rural roads, operates the major local courts, keeps files of deeds and mortgages, maintains vital records, administers public health regulations, and participates with the state in the provision of welfare and other social services.

The county board of commissioners controls the budget but has only limited authority to make laws or ordinances.

In Michigan, most local government functions — police and fire, building and zoning, tax assessment, street maintenance, etc.

The Mecosta–Osceola Intermediate School District, based in Big Rapids, services the majority of the students in the county (Evart and Reed City), while Wexford-Missaukee Intermediate School District covering services for the others (Marion and Pine River).

The ISD offers regional special education services, a residential at-risk youth center, and technical career programs for students of its districts.