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 BEHIND THE SCENES TOURS

 

  • Greenmead on Friday, July 9 at 10 a.m.

A special Friday tour! This 95-acre farm complex was once the 1820s homestead of Michigan pioneers Joshua Simmons.  It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features an 1841 Greek revival farmhouse and its outbuildings, nine of which are still intact.  The North Barn, built in 1829, was the first barn built in Livonia Township.  The cost of this tour is $20 for Detroit Historical Society members and $30 for guests.

  • Masonic Temple on Saturday, July 10 at Noon

     Back by popular demand!  This amazing building contains more than 1,037 rooms including cathedrals, chapels, numerous dining rooms and offices, two large ballrooms, a library, a drill hall and two auditoriums — one of which seats more than 4,400.   These rooms reflect a variety of decorative styles, from Corinthian to Art Deco.  Bring your walking shoes! The cost of this tour is $20 for Detroit Historical Society members and $30 for guests.

  • Hecker Smiley Mansion on Saturday, July 17 at 11 a.m. This historic home dates back to 1889.  Guest on this tour will see its restoration and hear stories about its past as a residence, boarding house and headquarters of the Smiley Brothers Music Company.  The cost of this tour is $20 for Detroit Historical Society members and $30 for guests.
  • Sacred Heart Seminary on Saturday, July 24 at 11 a.m.  The Gothic style building, completed in a record 18 months, was the first seminary of its size to be built at one time. Because of its solid construction, the seminary would need to be completely dismantled if it was ever going to be torn down.  The architect guaranteed the building would stand for 300 years. The tour includes lunch!  The cost of this tour is $30 for Detroit Historical Society members and $40 for guests.

Governor Warner Mansion on Saturday, July 31 at 11 a.m.

This Victorian Italianate style structure was built in 1867 by P.D. Warner, the governor’s father.  Located on nearly three acres, the home is filled with artifacts and memorabilia from 1850-1920.  The cost of this tour is $20 for Detroit Historical Society members and $30 for guests.