Manchester Area Historical Society kicks off Pay Down the Mortgage Campaign

At its February 14 general meeting, the Manchester Area Historical Society (MAHS) launched its Pay Down the Mortgage fundraising campaign, with the goal of reducing and eliminating the mortgage principal on the Kingsley-Jenter House, presently the home of MAHS.

Since 1904, the Kingsley-Jenter house has stood at the corner of Main Street and M-52, welcoming all to the heart of Manchester. It has had several incarnations. Now, in its current incarnation, MAHS states, “it hosts community meetings and events, educates children and adults on our past, and is an important contributor to the historical research of our area. Most importantly, however, it is a symbol of our history, our pride and our community.”  MAHS is asking the community for assistance in securing the Kingsley-Jenter House for generations to come.

MAHS purchased the house in 2015 with the help of local donations and a grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. They have since conducted major renovations to the exterior, the main hall, boardroom, galley, utilities, and future archives/museum area. They plan to launch a local history museum later this year, and finish the archival and research areas. They also have plans to clean and reorganize the Blacksmith Shop, located a few doors up Main street.

In order to make sure they have the funds to complete these projects, MAHS is embarking on a new fundraising initiative, with the goal of paying down the mortgage principal as much as possible, which will release other funds in future years. They are asking the Manchester community for help with either one-time donations, or an annual pledge donation spread out over several years. All contributions will be honored on a donor plaque to be displayed proudly in the main foyer of the house.

Donation forms are here: MAHS form. Donations can be mailed to: MAHS, P.O. Box 56, Manchester, MI 48158 (Please indicate “Pay Down The Mortgage” on the donation). Let’s make this our most successful campaign yet!

MAHS states, “Preserving our history is not only our passion, it’s our responsibility, and we thank you in advance for your support and generosity.”

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.