Get to Know Mishawaka, IN

Mishawaka formed in the 1830s after the discovery of bog iron deposits. It prospered as a manufacturing city along the St. Joseph River. The city is now known for a fantastic parks system with several along the river making up the Mishawaka Riverwalk. It is also home to a regional shopping district along Grape Road and Main Street anchored by University Park Mall.

Mishawaka is in St. Joseph County, Indiana. It is adjacent to South Bend, which is to the west.

Mishawaka is the second biggest city in St. Joseph County, behind South Bend. They are connected but do have distinct boundaries. 

According to The History Museum, the name "Mishawaka" is a Native American-derived word that may mean "big rapids." There are many disagreements, however, over the origin of the name. Some believe Mishawaka was a local Native American princess. This too, however, is widely disputed. 

Here is the best way to think about pronouncing Mishawaka: Mish-uh-wahk-uh.