Leonard, Michigan

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Leonard is a small village in Addison Township, Oakland County, Michigan, in the Metro Detroit area. It covers about a square mile of land and had a population of 377 in 2020. The Leonard post office has served locals since 1884. The village was named after Leonard Rowland and incorporated in 1889. Leonard is also known as the birthplace of Steven Avery.

In 2014, the village began restoring the Leonard Mill to be a stop on the Poly Ann Trail. The mill once had a grain elevator and beanery for the nearby railway. After a nearby general store closed, the mill fell into disrepair. Leonard bought the mill in 2014; the beanery was demolished in 2015, and the roof was rebuilt in 2017. The plan now is to create a rest stop with bike facilities, restrooms, and a seasonal small shop.

According to the 2010 census, Leonard had 403 people, 153 households, and 114 families, with a population that was mostly White. The 2000 census reported 332 residents and provided income details: typical household income around $46,000 and per capita income about $29,000.

Government in Leonard includes a Village President, a Treasurer, and an appointed Clerk, plus four elected council members. The Planning Commission has five members. The Village Council also serves as the Zoning Board of Appeals when needed. There is a Parks and Recreation Commission and a state-approved Recreation Plan.

Leonard is part of Oxford Community Schools, with Oxford High School as the zoned high school. It also has an operating elementary school, which used to be a high school.