LOOKING BACK, MOVING FORWARD
History of Bloomingdale Communications
Our roots go back to 1904, when a concerned father experienced the stress of not having phone service.
In the winter of 1904, a farmer south of Bloomingdale rode his horse through the snow to get help for his ailing infant son, since he had no phone in his home to call the doctor. That ride fueled the belief that no family should be without a lifeline. It also connected the community to jointly build the earliest version of Bloomingdale Telephone Company.
Through the ensuing years, technology evolved, and our name changed to Bloomindale Communications. We invite you to explore highlights of our history here.
Our History
Winter 1904
Arthur D. Shaw rides through the snow to save his sick infant son, inspiring the need for reliable communication in rural communities.
1904–1905
Shaw and neighbors each contribute $14 to build a local telephone line, creating the foundation of the Bloomingdale Telephone Company.
1908
The “Shaw Line” merges with Kibbie Telephone Company; a switchboard is installed in a home on Spring Street.
1955
The company transitions from a cooperative to a stock-for-profit business, enabling access to federal funding and infrastructure upgrades.
1957
Automatic switching technology is introduced, modernizing communications.
1969
Single-party buried lines are approved following community advocacy led by President Ralph Remington.
1980s
Introduction of modular phones and construction of new facilities.
1990s
Implementation of DSL and digital switching technology.
Early 2000s
Expansion into long-distance service, satellite TV, and high-speed internet; first provider in Southwest Michigan to deliver DSL.
2012
Awarded a $5.65 million Broadband Technology Opportunity Program grant; construction begins on the 137.5-mile Van Buren Fiber Ring connecting schools and communities.
2018–2021
$12 million USDA RUS loan funds Fiber-to-the-Home upgrades in the historic Bloomingdale Telephone Exchange.
2020
Secures $10.72 million in ReConnect Round 1 funding to expand fiber into rural Allegan and Van Buren Counties.
2021
Awarded $6.72 million in ReConnect Round 2 funding, expanding service to additional unserved areas.
Spring 2026
Launch of new fiber expansion project in Middleville, aiming to serve nearly 750 locations in Barry County through a USDA-RUS ReConnect 5 grant/loan.