Do you own a quaint cottage arts & crafts bungalow? A grand, elegant Queen Anne? Maybe a pre­classical salt­box style? Elk Rapids home and business owners once again have the opportunity to see their structure historically recognized. Thanks to a recent grant, the Elk Rapids Area Historical Society is offering a custom­ made plaque to members owning a building more than 50 years old.

 

“It’s a great opportunity!” reports Nancy Baker, Museum volunteer and Plaque Coordinator. “You can proudly display a beautiful plaque that indicates the year your home was constructed. The Historical Society will help you research your home or business to determine its individual story and build date.” Each plaque is hand-made by Scott Nelles, a local artist, in his Elk Rapids foundry. The heavy cast aluminum oval features the circa build date and statement of historic recognition. “Everyone with an older structure should take advantage of this offer,” said Flo Wettlaufer, Historical Society Secretary/Treasurer. “These old structures preserve tradition and the past lives of people who lived in them. Recognizing an older home or storefront helps everyone understand and honor the generations who came before us. We are all just temporary caretakers of our community and its culture.” 

 

Elk Rapids, a village of about 1,600, has a rich architectural history with a substantial number of houses that are more than 50 years old. To apply for a plaque, please leave a message on our office phone 231-­264-­5692.