MML Review Magazine Fall 2024

COMMUNITY HISTORY

HSM has recognized more than forty houses as Michigan Heritage Homes.

One example, recognized in 2023, is a rare example of an Octagon House: the Gridley House in Albion, built about 1856. Orson Squire Fowler, a prominent lecturer, phrenologist, and abolitionist, touted the Octagon style as the ideal house form. They proved less practical than Fowler hoped, and the idea never caught on. Abram and Eliza Jane Gridley, however, numbered among the few Michiganders who built an Octagon home. Abram Gridley fired bricks for the house on the site himself and used them to build their Octagon, where they lived for the rest of their lives. Today, the Gridley House remains in almost original condition.

HSM’s partnership with organizations and families throughout the state through these awards programs helps to honor Michigan’s unique heritage. In recognizing historical contributions to communities through these programs, we pay tribute to the work of past Michiganders and inspire current and future citizens to create their own impact in their communities. Application forms and full information about the Historical Society of Michigan’s award programs are on the organization’s website: https://www.hsmichigan.org/awards. Robert Myers is the director of history programming at the Historical Society of Michigan. He can be reached at 517-324-1828 or myers@hsmichigan.org.

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| Fall 2024