Greek Revival/Traditional, 1882
This is the city of Birmingham, Michigan’s oldest surviving home. It is located in the Birmingham Historical Museum and Park.
- Hours Wed – Sat 1 – 4 PM
- Location Maple Rd and Southfield Rd.
Most cities I’ve lived in have historic homes open to the public. But most times they have odd hours, like open every other Wednesday between the hours of 1:00 and 1:17 PM, except when it rains and Mrs. Kawalski plays bridge with her niece….
And as luck would have it, the first time I stopped by to take a look inside the museum was closed. The second time, however, I did better.
As I visit each historic home, I’ll start to collect images of their moldings. That way you’ll have a nice inventory of the moldings installed in the beautiful historic homes we all love so much.
Inside the Hunter House
Guiding me through the house on the chilly winter day I arrived is Birmingham Historic Museum & Park Program Assistant, Jennifer O’Hare.
Jennifer had so many interesting things to say about the house, the items in it and the people who lived here, that I want to go back for a review.
If you go for a visit, make sure you ask her to tell you about the origin of the saying “sleep tight.” I had no idea!
The Hunter House Moldings
Many alterations have been made to the Hunter House during its long history. Sadly, the original moldings are long gone.
At some point a Greek Revival archway surround was installed between the dining room and the living room. I’ll try to find out if it’s a replica of the original surround.
As usual in historic homes like these, there’s a story in every corner of the home.
But I’ll let Jennifer tell you all the interesting tidbits herself when you come to visit!
