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History of Venice Township: Venice township's first pioneer was Zachariah Webb, who came in 1836. Next came Joel B. Goss in 1837, as did Hiram Johnson. William Placeway came in 1838 but like Mr. Webb, who left in 1838, he didn't stay long. Nelson Ferry, a surveyor and teacher came from Ohio with his family. He helped establish the first school. School was held in his home, with his daughter being the teacher. When a school had been built, Mr. Placeway became the teacher. He taught in several area schools as well.

Elnathan Brown came in 1839. He built a hotel and overnight stop in section 30. There was a grist mill nearby. Riley Byington was a shoemaker and repaired shoes and boots in his home. Charles Wilkinson came from Jefferson County, New York in 1840. He settled in section 7, and held school in his barn. His son, George was the first boy born in the township.

The first township meeting was held on April 1, 1843 at the home of Neely Sawtell. Elected officials were Supervisor, Daniel I. Lipe; Clerk, Neely Sawtell; Treasurer, Charles Wilkinson; Highway Commissioners, Truman Bunce, Joseph Dunbar, A.M. Jennings; Directors of the Poor, Truman Bunce, A.M. Jennings; Constables, Charles Wilkinson, Wm. Placeway.

Other pioneers were Andrew Lytle, Alonzo Owens, Joseph Card, E.S. and C.L. Cronkhite, Samuel Martin and John Gerardy, who came from France in 1855.

The townships only village was Lennon. It was built on the county line and was named for Peter Lennon of Genesee County.