The Jonathan Hale and Jason Hammond families settled here in 1810 after purchasing property from the Connecticut Land Company. Founded in 1818, Bath included three hamlets established along the "Center" road. Several Hammond families settled Hammond's Corners, where a general store, buggy shop, post office, hotel, and school made it known as "Downtown Bath." Bath Center, at the geographic center of the township, served as a community gathering place with government offices, fire and safety services, and a school. Originally platted as a village in 1836, Ghent grew around the water power of Yellow Creek with mills, many small businesses, and residences.