The Redford Township Historical Commission will celebrate its 50th anniversary on May 4, 2019 with a special event at the Redford History Center, located at 12895 Berwyn. Current Commission members will pay tribute to past members and their important work preserving Redford’s history. Founding Commission members Fred and Aileen DesAutels, in particular, will be honored. Attendees will be able to view historic objects and documents representing Redford’s history and are encouraged to bring in their donations as well.
In past years, Commission members would hold an annual dinner to install new officers and share Redford memories. “In some ways, this first annual event is a revival of that tradition,” said Commission Vice-Chair Mac MacDermaid. Many people have volunteered their time to serve on the Commission and preserve the Township’s history, and the historical resources the Township has would not exist without them. Some of those items will be on display during the event.
Fred DesAutels was Redford’s first historian and author of Redford Township, Its Heritage and Its History. His book, now in its third printing with an updated index, will be available for purchase with proceeds supporting Redford history.
“This event is not only an opportunity to reflect on the past, but also to look forward,” said chair Stefanie Caloia. As Redford grows and evolves, so does its heritage and its history. “We’re asking for help documenting Redford as it is today for future generations,” Caloia said. On May 4, Redford history enthusiasts are encouraged to bring in items to donate that help tell Redford’s story – past or present. The Commission accepts photographs, papers, and three-dimensional artifacts that relate to Redford. There are some limitations on storage space, so please contact the Commission about large items or large volumes (several boxes) of material.
Redford Township passed an ordinance officially establishing the Historical Commission in 1991. However, Fred DesAutels originally formed the Commission in 1969 at the suggestion of Township Clerk Dawn Rice. Today, the Township Board of Trustees appoints each of the seven Board members who serve on the Commission. The Commission presently has two openings and anyone interested in joining should contact a current Board member.
The event will be held from 12-3pm on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at the Redford History Center, 12895 Berwyn. Refreshments will be provided.
For more information contact the Redford Township Historical Commission at rthc09 @gmail.com or call 313-387-2577 and see the event page on Facebook.
Redford Township Historical Commission 