 This stream was originally named by local Native Americans, as a combination of "missilla" ("black alder", or "American Winterberry", a common tree along the stream) plus "ni" ("stream" or "water").The first settlers arrived in the area between 1805 and 1807, founding Nimishillentown, and organizing Nimishillen Township in 1809.Nimishillen Township has always been deeply interested in self-government.