Moon Valley is located in the southern end of Independence Township in Oakland County, Michigan, United States. It comprises most of section 32 on the northern base of Waterford Hill.[1]
| Moon Valley | |
| Map: | Michigan |
| Map Size: | 200 |
| Map Width: | 42.7138809,-83.4122451 |
| Coordinates: | 42.7139°N -83.4122°W |
| Location: | Independence Township, Michigan |
| Watercourses: | Clinton River, Greens Lake |
Moon Valley was formed during the retreat of the last continental glacier, approximately 14,000 years ago.[2] As they retreated, the glaciers left behind debris, called moraines, and valleys. The retreating glaciers also formed numerous lakes.[3] [4]
In 1854, Stephen Moon (1823-1909) came to Independence Township, Michigan from Palmyra, New York and was the first to settled in a valley on the northern side of Waterford Hill along the Saginaw Trail (now Dixie Highway). His tract of land was in section 32 of the township. There he established a 120-acre stock farm where he raised sheep, hogs, cows and fowl.[5]
Moon's son, Melvin C. Moon (1854-1933), eventually took over ownership of the farm and ran it until 1910. The valley became known as "Moon Valley"[6] and the farm was subdivided and today consists of a residences on Maple Lane and a commercial district along Dixie Highway.[7]
The Clinton River winds its way around Moon Valley and through Greens Lake, a 117 acres, 55 foot depth lake which borders the western side of the valley.[8]