The Milford Historical Society
The Milford Historical Society was founded in 1973 by a group of citizens who recognized the importance of the heritage of their community, and wished to share it with their contemporaries and preserve it for those who will follow. To these ends, the members have established a museum, a research and archives room, and have sponsored, in conjunction with the Milford Township Library and the State of Michigan Library, the microfilming of the Milford Times newspaper beginning with the first issue in 1871. The Milford Historical Society is chartered as a 501c3 Non-Profit organization and as such is eligible to accept tax-deductible contributions. The Society’s continuing projects include an annual home tour, various research projects, and an effort toward local architectural preservation. Through its own Sesquicentennial Committee, the Society published a book titled TEN MINUTES AHEAD OF THE REST OF THE WORLD – A HISTORY OF MILFORD as another step towards preserving and disseminating the history of Milford, Michigan.
The General Membership meetings are held on the third Thursday in the months of January, March, May, September and November. The July meeting is the Annual Picnic which is held at a different location every year on the 3rd Sunday at 2 p.m. The General Membership Meetings/Potlucks are held at the Milford Methodist Church, located at 1200 Atlantic Street (see map for MHS locations) and begin at 6:30 PM. Everyone is asked to bring a dish to pass, this is determined by the first initial of their last name (A-G; H-N; O-Z). The meal is divided into three categories – salads, main dish and desserts. The initials rotate every month, so everyone has a chance to bring a main dish, salad or dessert. Members are also asked to bring their own table service and beverage.
After our meal at approximately 7:30 a general membership meeting is held by the president of the society to inform members of upcoming activities and to take questions from the membership. Individuals do not need to be members to attend our potluck or meetings, they are open to the public and all are welcome. The Historical Society Potlucks have become famous for being the best potluck in town!!
Officers & Directors of the Milford Historical Society
- Daniel Crawford, President
- Sarah Cuddback, 1st Vice-President
- Sue Bullard, 2nd Vice-President
- Chris Smith, Treasurer
- Sue Bullard, Corresponding Sec
- Ben Bowerman, Recording Sec
- Sarah Cuddback, Collection Manager
- Sue Bullard, Acting Museum Director
- Jared Clouse, Director
- Linda Dagenhardt, Director
- Sue Gumpper, Director
- Emma Michniewitz, Director
- Norm Werner, Director
The Milford Historical Museum
This 1853 Greek revival structure, which houses the Milford Historical Society Museum, was built by local cabinet maker John Wood. Through the years it served as home to Edwin Hubbell, a local merchant, and later his son, Frank “Trader” Hubbell. Dr. Weisbrod also had his home and office located here. Much local activity centered on this building when it contained the offices for Milford Village, Milford Township and the Police Department.
The formal parlor and dining room depict the more gracious aspects of life. The kitchen, with its period gadgets, and the bedroom, with its rope bed, straw tick, and “thunder-mug” remind visitors of the more primitive conditions of the era. A toy room delights children of all ages. The upper floor of the museum is furnished as a home of the late Victorian era might have been. Many of the furnishings are items that were manufactured in Milford.
The Milford Historical Society Museum is open 10am – 1pm Wednesday, and 1pm – 4pm Saturdays and Sundays. Closed in the winter.
The Log Cabin Exhibit
The latchstring is always out at this depiction of the Job G. Bigelow cabin, built in the south end of Milford Township in 1833. The rough structure required constant chinking and the fireplace was the only source of heat. Still, Mrs. Bigelow managed to start the first school for area children in her home. The cabin brings to life Milford’s pioneer days of hard work and hope.