The Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society (GWBHS) is excited to announce its spring programming for March and April 2023! These programs are made possible through different community partnerships. Please contact GWBHS or visit our website for additional information.

Open Houses: The Orchard Lake Museum is open to the public on the following dates from 1:00PM to 4:00PM: March 5, 12, 17, and 26; April 2, 21, and 30. Admission is free, but donations are welcome! Visitors can explore our permanent exhibits that interpret local area history and culture.

During the Sunday, March 12, Open House, visitors can learn about the interurban trolley, a light-rail system, which ran from downtown Detroit to Pontiac, that shortened travel time to the “up north” getaway that was West Bloomfield. “Farmington Junction, A Trolley History” author Brian Golden will give presentations at 2 pm and 3 pm.

During the Sunday, April 2, Open House, visitors can come see 1913 and 1953 West Bloomfield tax record books! To learn more about their property, visitors can bring their Township section number, property description, and, if known, subdivision.

Presentation: Join us on Sunday, March 19 at 2:00PM for "Restoring 2690 Pine Lake Road" at the West Bloomfield Public Library Main Meeting Room! This memorable blue-shake roof home has an interesting story. Listen to Paul B. Wilbur as he returns to the time of Henry Ford and the development of the Pine Lake area to learn more about the home’s architecture and first owners. Admission is free, but donations are welcome! There is a 50 person capacity for this program. (This program is made possible by the West Bloomfield Public Library.)

The Birmingham Museum Tour: Join us on Tuesday, April 4 at 12:15PM for a tour of The Birmingham Museum. Board the bus at the Recreational Activities Center for a trip back in time with a docent led tour of The Birmingham Museum. See a new exhibit A Tapestry of Birmingham, which includes early Black settlement, abolitionists, the Underground Railroad. Also tour the oldest house in Oakland County – the 1822 John West Hunter House. This program cost $15 for residents and $20 for non-resident. See the West Bloomfield Parks & Recreation 2023 Winter Guide for details and registration.(This program is made possible by the West Bloomfield Parks & Recreation Commission.)

Spring Nature Walk: Join us on Sunday, April 16 at 2:00PM for an hour-long guided walk in the Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary. Naturalist Carol Fink will guide the group through rolling terrain, exploring the breathtaking spring flowers. Admission is free, but donations are welcome! (This program is made possible by the Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary.)