Historical Homes for the Holidays

Historical Home Tour of Schoolcraft, MI.

Schoolcraft is more than just a small town of less than two thousand situated on a highway. We were the first town in Kalamazoo County as recorded on October 5, 1831. This was before Michigan became a state. Schoolcraft had Kalamazoo County’s first physician, Dr. Nathan Thomas. In 1835, he built a home that for over a twenty year period helped over 1,500 slaves migrate north to freedom. This building still exists and is home to the Schoolcraft Historical Society. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a registered Michigan Historical Site. In 1879, the ladies of the town formed a library association. This association still exists as does the building they built and dedicated in 1896. In Schoolcraft, we have much to be proud of, and we rejoice in the caring of our history. Many of the homes in this area have stayed true to their heritage, and this December you will have the opportunity to see this up close.

On December 1st, Pure Schoolcraft and Friends of the Schoolcraft Community Library will be hosting an event that will benefit our two historic organizations and the Schoolcraft Community Library. The Historical Homes for the Holidays is a tour that will allow participants to get an inside look at buildings mentioned above and four other places of historical interest.

Tickets are $25 per person aged 16 years old and up.

You will start your journey at Wind + James at 4 pm on December 1st.

There will be a presentation by Darby Fetzer, and you will receive a packet for your self-paced tour, which will include your ticket, map, KEEPSAKE BOOK, and booties to tour the homes. A light dinner of soups will be available at the Schoolcraft Library, as well as sweets and coffee at the Schoolcraft Ladies Library. Reserve your tickets at the Schoolcraft Community Library or here on Eventbrite. Tickets are limited to 200 attendants. Proceeds will benefit the Schoolcraft Library, the Schoolcraft Ladies Library, and the Schoolcraft Historical Society. Schoolcraft Historical Society books will be available for sale at the Schoolcraft Library.

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?
Guests must be at least 16 years old.

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?
You will have to drive yourself or carpool with others. Parking will be at or near each home.

What can/can't I bring to the event?
Please do not bring children, alcohol, or pets. Food and photography inside the homes is NOT allowed.

Once I have my packet and the event starts, what do I do?
Your boots will need to be left out on the porch, and the booties will be worn in the house. Your wristband will gain you entry. You may wander and ask the host questions. Please do not go through any closed door.

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?
You may contact us via the contact box on this page and Deb Christiansen will get back to you.

Do I have to bring my ticket reservation to the event?
Yes. You will be checked in at the door.

Is my registration/ticket transferrable?
Yes. Contact Deb Christiansen at (269) 679-5795.