Thanks to MACC for its support!
The Pittsfield Township Historical Society has been awarded a grant of $17,970 from the State of Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) for the Exterior Historic Building Restoration at 1832 Sutherland-Wilson Farmstead for the Carriage House. The grant was awarded through the MACC peer review process and was one of 594 applications to compete for MACC fiscal year 2023 funding. Organizations receiving a MACC grant award are required to match those funds with other public and private dollars. Local support of the project included Pittsfield Charter Township. Total budget for the project was $35,940.
Additionally, in-kind support included the Pittsfield Township Historical Society board and trustees, the Pittsfield Township Historic District Commission, and Pittsfield Charter Township administration, with special recognition to the following:
Elizabeth McGuire Heller - President, Pittsfield Township Historical Society
Mary Ellen Wall - Vice President, Pittsfield Township Historical Society
Al Paas - Renovations and Preservation Chair, Pittsfield Township Historical Society
Theresa Tupacz - Trustee, Pittsfield Township Historical Society
Kurt Weiland – Director of Buildings, Pittsfield Charter Township
Matthew Best - Director of Municipal Services, Pittsfield Charter Township
Rich Wade, John Welter, and maintenance staff - Parks and Recreation, Pittsfield Charter Township
Saving historic outbuildings is an important factor in preserving the agricultural history of a farmstead, as these buildings tell the story of the settlers’ culture and farming process. The Farmstead provides the community with a unique experience through an authentic historical farmstead showcasing local American traditions and culture. This project has sustained and enhanced future operations, stability, and capabilities of the historic Farmstead.
The MACC peer review process allows for each grant application to be competitively considered by a panel of in-state and out-of-state arts and culture professionals. This ensures the taxpayers, who support this project through legislative appropriations, and all other visitors or residents in Michigan will have access to the highest quality arts and cultural experiences. A complete list of grant awards around the state is available by contacting MACC at (517) 241-4011, or by visiting the MACC website at www.michigan.gov/arts.
