This county was named in honor of General De Kalb, a Revolutionary officer of German descent, who was killed in the battle of Camden. The surface of the county is gently undulating, and, with the exception of some low, wet lands, was originally covered with timber. The St. Joseph runs about twelve miles through the southeast corner of the county, while the other portions are well watered by Cedar creek and its tributary streams. The timber is of an excellent quality, and the soil cannot be excelled by any land in the State. It is being extensively cultivated, with good results for the husbandman.
The county is divided into nine townships, Union being the centre, in which is located Auburn, the county seat, a small but thrifty town. It is located on the Fort Wayne, Jackson & Saginaw railroad. The county is young, but in a very flourishing condition.