Public invited to Indigenous History of the Manchester Area presentation

Silas Bialecki giving a presentation to the Manchester Area Historical Society in the past. Screenshot from presentation/MAHS website.

submitted by Annette Siffin, Manchester Area Historical Society

The March members’ meeting of the Manchester Area Historical Society (MAHS) will feature Silas Bialecki presenting a talk on “The Indigenous History of the Manchester Area” on March 12 at 7pm. His talk will include an overview of Indigenous History in the Great Lakes Region, followed by a more focused account of where and how indigenous peoples lived in the Manchester area. The general public is welcome to attend the meeting/lecture. Spend an enjoyable evening learning about Manchester-area history while meeting and mingling with fellow area residents. Light refreshments will be served after the talk.

Bialecki grew up in the Irish Hills and developed an appreciation for the land and its natural communities while exploring stream beds, glacial ridges, and the grasses of old farm fields. He has over a decade of experience in land stewardship and habitat restoration.

MAHS member meetings take place on the second Thursday of every month (except July and August) at 7pm at the Kingsley-Jenter House (302 E Main St, Manchester). Meetings always include about 15 minutes of MAHS business followed by a thoughtful presentation related to Manchester-area history. The April meeting will feature a talk on Kit Houses in Manchester presented by Jaimie Schmidt.

The Kingsley-Jenter House is one of the crown jewels of the Manchester Area Historical Society. It was the vision of Ray Berg, former president of MAHS, for the Historical Society to own a building that served as its headquarters, museum space, and community meeting space. Thanks to Ray’s efforts, and the support and donations of our members and local community, the Historical Society was able to purchase the KJ House in 2015. The final mortgage payment was made in January 2026, and is now owned free and clear. With the mortgage out of the way, we are now able to move forward with new projects, speakers, and special events that support our local history. MAHS is appreciative of any support toward these efforts. Tax-deductible donations can be made using the QR code below, or mailing to MAHS, PO Box 56, Manchester, MI 48158, or visit MAHSMI.ORG.

We hope you’ll join us on March 12! 

by Sara Swanson

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