Old Fashion Day a Sunshine Filled Success

7050 S. Eberhart Rd
clare, mi 48617

CLARE – Hundreds of people and many families from the surrounding Amish community attended Old Fashion Day, an annual event held at the museum complex of the Clare County Historical Society.

This year’s honored member of the CCHS was Jon Ringelberg, and the traditional button with his image and the year were worn by attendees. Ringelberg is a retired judge, author, historian and jack of all trades at the museum complex. His contributions of time, money, research and preservation of history have been invaluable to Clare County.

Featured speaker this year was Vera Wiltse of Coleman. Wiltse is a member of the MBPN, the Michigan Barn Preservation Network. The MBPN’s mission is to “promote appreciation, preservation, and rehabilitation of Michigan barns, farmsteads and rural communities.”

Wiltse’s presentation covered the styles and shapes of barns and how many have been preserved and put to new uses other than agriculture in rural communities.

The biggest takeaway from Wiltse’s fascinating presentation was her list of how anyone can help save barns: appreciate them and talk with the owners; take care of the barn as it ages; make repairs in segments; advocate for tax credits; support contractors willing to learn traditional skills; conduct surveys; find a way to make barns a part of the community; and seek adaptive reuse.

Wiltse said many other states have tax credits for preservation or reuse of barns. Michigan is not one of those states, but legislation could change that.

Many antique cars and tractors were also on display, as well as a Clare Fire Department ladder truck – always a favorite with young visitors. This year a rare tractor was also displayed. The 94-year-old McCormick-Deering 10-20 owned by Aaron Strouse still runs and has a kerosene engine, no suspension and has 10 HP for pulling and 20 HP when using the pulley.

The newly reorganized museum, Dover School (1876), Ott Cabin, blacksmith shop, and the favorite activities of many; tractor ride through the country and bean soup rounded out a wonderful afternoon for visitors and CCHS members.

The Clare County Historical Society will reopen next season in May or by appointment as weather allows. Old Fashion Day is held each year on the last Saturday of September. Visit them on Facebook or online at their website clarecountyhistory.org.