History will be alive at the Scripps Mansion on September 21-23 when the Orion Historical Society, along with Guest House, hosts Scripps Days.
‘It is an opportunity for the mansion to be open and available to the public,? said Sara Van Portfliet of the Orion Historical Society. ?(The mansion) has been referred to as the most architecturally significant building in southeast Michigan.?
The mansion, which was built by William E. Scripps, heir to the Detroit News fortune, is located on Joslyn Road, south of Clarkston Road.
?(The mansion) was built by and was the home of one of the most influential inventors of his time,? Van Portfliet said, adding that Mr. Scripps ‘had his fingers in everything,? including farming, as Canterbury Village sits on the site of the old Scripps Farm.
Not only will the event feature guided tours of the mansion, but old cars, an art exhibit, food and music will be part of the festivities.
On Friday night, there will be the ‘Taste of Michigan,? a strolling dinner, along with music and a dance floor, Van Portfliet said.
The weekend event, which will help raise money for the restoration of the old mansion, will require volunteers in order to be successful.
According to Van Portfliet, around 125 volunteers are needed just for the mansion tour, as well as others needed for various events of the weekend.
For those interested in working as a mansion tour guide, the Historical Society is offering training.
‘There is new information plus the tour expanded because we have more access to the house,? Van Portfliet said.
There is no cost to get trained and training will be held sometime in August. Those interested in working as a guide should call Van Portfliet at (248)693-4154.
Those interested in volunteering for other activities throughout Scripps Day, they can contact Guest House at (248)391-4445.
According to Van Portfliet, the mansion has been recommended to become a national registry listing.
‘It was accepted by the state of Michigan as being nationally significant,? she said, noting that the state has recommended the site and now they are waiting for it to be formally accepted as part of the registry. There will be a dedication ceremony as part of the weekend’s festivities on Saturday at 2 p.m.
Van Portfliet added that there is also a new group forming, The Friends of the William E. Scripps Estate, whose main function will be fundraising for the preservation of the estate. Those interested in getting involved can contact Van Portfliet at the number listed above.