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A Brief History of the Old Art Building
In the early 1920's, summer and local Leland residents danced and sang in the "Follies" - an event held to raise funds to build a community cultural center. The Walter T. Best Women's Club organized the effort and in 1922, master carpenter John Buehrer completed the construction. The building hosted social and cultural events, some as famous as the lecture and entertainment series of the Redpath Chautauqua Assembly Circuit. During WWII, the ladies of the village gathered here to roll bandages for the Red Cross; however, with the war ongoing, the building saw little use. Because the Women's Club was dedicated to providing a place for art and culture, they offered the building to Michigan State University in 1939 to use as an art school. For 50 years, MSU held summer art classes at the building. Students and teachers lived with local families or rented rooms nearby. By 1989, however, it became difficult to find housing and the art school closed. In 1991, a group of residents, concerned that the "old art building" would be torn down, formed the Leelanau Community Cultural Center Board. They were determined to keep this historical landmark intact - and to make sure it was used as originally intended. Their success is evident in what you see today - a renovated building, full of life and busy all year long! Art and craft classes, art exhibits, dances and musical events are held indoors and out, as are dramatic presentations and community gatherings. Writer's workshops and rug-making, watercolor classes and yoga - there's something for everyone! First the building was insulated and rewired. Then two furnaces were added. A Building Director was hired. A new well and the new garden came next, then the building got a fresh coat of paint and storm windows. Most recently, an addition to provide restrooms and an office was built. How did this all happen so quickly? It happened because the Old Art Building is treasured - and many wonderful people volunteered their time, talents and funds to ensure that it remains a vital part of the Leelanau community. We hope that you will continue to support this fine old building and the efforts of the LCCC. More History of the Old Art Building The Leland Experience |
111 South Main Street, PO Box 883 • Leland, MI 49654
phone: 231-256-2131 • email: info@oldartbuilding.com
www.oldartbuilding.com
© 2003 Leelanau Community Cultural Center. All Rights Reserved.
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