“Before Fair Lane — Historic Houses from Henry Ford’s Hometown, Dearborn Michigan (1832-1916)” was selected by the Historical Society of Michigan for the State History Award.
DEARBORN – Dearborn is rich with history, and a good way to learn more about the people and events that shaped the city is to understand more about the landmark homes that gave character to the community in its earlier years.
There is a comprehensive book produced by the Museum Guild of Dearborn that covers that topic in an entertaining and visually pleasing way: “Before Fair Lane — Historic Houses from Henry Ford’s Hometown, Dearborn Michigan (1832-1916).”
The book was selected by the Historical Society of Michigan in 2018 as a winner of the Society’s State History Award.
The publication was conceptualized as a project to educate the public about historic homes in Dearborn as well as to increase awareness of the Dearborn Historical Museum.
The book includes photos of 149 still standing homes and 42 homes that have been torn down. The book also features 22 stories about century-old homes.
L. Glenn O’Kray sought funding from the Museum Guild, and Rick Danes, chair of the Guild, obtained approval for the project. Bruce Harkness, a former photographer for the city, produced the photographs and Carl Johnson of St. Creative designed the book.
The books are available for purchase at the Dearborn Historical Museum, Henry Ford Centennial Library, Bryant Library, Village Picture Framing and Art Gallery and City Clerk’s Office. The cost is $30 per copy or $25 each for five or more.