Media Release: Ribbon-Cutting Celebration for Drake House Restoration

Published on September 23, 2025

For Immediate Release

Ribbon-Cutting Celebration for Drake House Restoration

Oshtemo Charter Township, Mich – Oshtemo Charter Township and the Oshtemo Historical Society are pleased to announce a ribbon-cutting ceremony and festive fall celebration honoring the recently completed restoration of the original second-level flooring in the historic Benjamin Drake House. The public is invited to attend the celebration on Sunday, September 28, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Drake Farmstead Park, 927 North Drake Road. This restoration was made possible through a partnership with America250MI, whose investment was crucial to preserving this treasured Michigan landmark. Restoration of the second-level flooring helps protect the authenticity and integrity of the 14-room farmhouse, ensuring that future generations can experience an authentic piece of local history.

The festive afternoon will celebrate fall, Oshtemo’s farming heritage, and the park, featuring live music, family-friendly crafts, local vendors, guided nature walks, and tours of the restored 14-room Drake House.

“Thanks to America250MI and the dedication of our volunteers and partners, the Drake House restoration preserves an important chapter of Oshtemo’s farming heritage,” said Vanessa Street, Oshtemo Parks Director. “We’re excited to welcome the community to Drake Farmstead Park to celebrate this milestone and to share the park as a place for education, recreation, and connection.”

Built by Benjamin and Maria Drake, early settlers who arrived in 1830, the farmhouse was saved from demolition when the township purchased it in 2004 and the Oshtemo Historical Society was formed to guide restoration. The Drake House is now the centerpiece of the 26-acre Drake Farmstead Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is used for public events and tours by appointment.

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About Oshtemo Charter Township: Established in 1839, Oshtemo exists to advance the quality of life of all residents through a commitment to responsible growth and value-driven municipal services that promote the relationships among economic vitality, environmental stewardship, and social equity.

For more information, please contact:

Rich Blair, Media & Communications Manager, Oshtemo Township

rblair@oshtemo.org | 216.585.4154

Drake House in Fall

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