You’ve heard that legends often contain a kernel of truth? Legends of Grand Rapids are no exception. I’ll repeat some of the tallest tales about our fair city, then share the truth behind the myths.

When French trader Louis Campau bought the downtown business district from the federal government, it only cost him $90.
The Truth: Louis Campau bought a bowl of soup at the 1913 Room and it only cost him $90.

Myth #2: The original inhabitants of the Grand River Valley were the Hopewell Indians and they are known for their large burial mounds.
The Truth: The Hopewell Indians were truly the first inhabitants here, but they weren’t known for their large burial mounds; they were known for their large bars of soap. And they didn’t call themselves the Hopewell Indians, they called themselves the VanAndelVos Indians.

Myth #3: Grand Rapids is known as “Furniture City.”
The Truth: One time when Grand Rapids was at a family reunion with her sister cities, the older Perugia—who has always condescended to Grand Rapids—thought it was hilarious to call her “Furniture City.” Perugia is really the only one who laughed.  

Myth #1:

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