Nov. 8, 2007

On Sunday, Nov. 11, Michigan Historical Commissioner Judith Tappero of Bloomfield Hills will dedicate a Michigan Historical Marker at what is now known as the First United Methodist Church of Farmington.  The marker, Farmington's fourth, will be placed in front of the church, which is located at 33112 Grand River.

Farmington's Methodist congregation dates from 1829. The present church, the second one used by the congregation, dates from 1922. "This building has connections with significant Michigan personalities of the day," said State Historic Preservation Officer Brian Conway. "Through the Michigan Historical Marker Program we share those connections with the public."

Church members Wells Butterfield and his daughter Emily Butterfield, who were prominent Detroit architects, designed the Neo-Gothic structure. Emily Butterfield is Michigan's first licensed female architect. In addition, former Governor Fred Warner donated some of the stained-glass windows in the church, made by glass artist Francois Grenier of Detroit.

The First United Methodist Church doubled as a civic center for the Farmington community into the 1940s. The attached community hall hosted Saturday night movies that were open to the public, as well as other events.

Sponsors pay for Michigan Historical Markers through donation to the state of Michigan.

Since the Michigan Historical Marker program began in 1955, more than 1,500 historical markers have been erected. Traveling Through Time: A Guide to Michigan's Historical Markers contains the text and location of state markers. It is available anywhere books are sold or by calling (517) 373-1663.  To learn more about the marker program and registered historic sites, visit the State Historic Preservation Office Web site at www.michigan.gov/shpo.

The Michigan Historical Marker Program is administered by the State Historic Preservation Office, a division of the Michigan Historical Center, an agency of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.  Dedicated to enriching quality of life and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, HAL also includes the Library of Michigan, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the Michigan Film Office.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).