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Grosse Pointe
Historical Society
established 1945
SPRING 2006
Vol. 23, No.1
Participate in History at Second
Saturdays Pastimes
Take a hands-on trip back in time via the Grosse Pointe Historical Society’s
Second Saturday Pastimes.
Since January, the Society has been offering the community the opportunity to
participate in historical activities as part of its monthly open house at the Provencal-Weir
House, c. 1823, 376 Kercheval, from 1:00-4:00 p.m. The activities highlight different
aspects of Grosse Pointe history each month.
Upcoming events include “The History of Afternoon Tea,” with Cyndee Harrison of the
Tea Party Company, on April 8, and “Glorious Gardens of Old Grosse Pointe,” with master
gardener, Mil Anthony, on May 13.
“While the tradition of afternoon tea is often credited to Anna, Duchess of Bedford, there is historical evidence that
the French were actually the first to enjoy this break with tea and a small snack,” Harrison said. “This event will be a
wonderful way to learn about the history, tradition, and etiquette of afternoon tea, as well as some fun parlor games.”
The activity and the tour are free of charge. Reservations are encouraged, but not required. For information, call (313)
884-7010 or visit the website at www.gphistorical.org. For a more complete list of the events, see the back page.
Take Action to Save
Historic Properties
Grosse Pointe recently lost another historic gem with
the demolition of the Lodge House at 60 Lakeshore.
Despite cooperative efforts, a buyer couldn’t be found
with the resources to restore and move the building.
There are many sides to this story, but most would
agree it was a loss to the community to have this historic
residence razed.
The Grosse Pointe Historical Society has information for
individuals who are interested in preventing the further
demolition of historic properties. The following is taken
from the Society’s brochure “Take Action.”
First of all, do
your homework.
Gather back-
ground material to
substantiate the
historic signifi-
cance of the prop-
erty in question.
Find out as many details about the history of the property
as you can (construction dates, architects, owners, etc.).
Does the property have any historic designations (local,
state, or federal)?
Then, contact the appropriate local government offices to
determine who is involved in and the procedures and
expected timetable leading to the demolition. Speak to
officials about the situation. (It’s best to seek the advice of
a real estate attorney before taking action.)
Next, get in touch with the property owner or developer to
find out exactly what is being planned. Compare their
comments with information obtained elsewhere. Then
notify the community of the property’s significance and
possible demolition. Contact the Grosse Pointe Historical
Society, the local newspapers, the neighbors, and the
mayor and council of the community involved.
Finally, take action. Attend city or village council meet-
ings and bring as many neighbors from around the proper-
ty as possible. Provide the council with written and visual
information explaining your objection to the proposed
demolition. Don’t neglect to monitor the property during
this process to ensure that the owner or developer does
not launch further attempts to get approval for inappropri-
ate property use. If possible, try to work with the owner or
developer to create a suitable use of the property.
For more information, call 884-7010.
Stonehurst, demolished in 1974
Historic Tea, April 8