Who Are We?
Founded in 1974, the Friends of Historic Meridian is a nonprofit organization with the mission to create and sustain an active appreciation of local history.
We operate the 8 historic buildings that make up the Meridian Historical Village in the Central Park in Okemos. In 2024, we are celebrating our 50 year anniversary with a series of programs and events. Special thanks to our 50th anniversary sponsors: 
2023 50th Anniversary Sponsor
2024 50th Anniversary Sponsor
2024 50th Anniversary Sponsor
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All are invited to enjoy the Village grounds and surrounding trails throughout the year. Our buildings are open to the public every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm by appointment beginning Saturday, May 3, 2025-October 25, 2025.
The Village hosts over 2700 elementary students annually on weekdays during the academic year. Our busiest weeks are in the spring between March and June, and in the fall between September and November. Because the buildings are booked many weeks in advance by teachers for their students, the general public is asked to refrain from entering unlocked buildings while school tours are in progress at the Village during the week. 
To schedule a tour of the Village outside of normal operating hours, please email or call the Village office at 517-347-7300. Please allow at least one weeks notice for a private tour. The office is located in the single story wing of the Barnes House.
Preservation Oaks Podcast Interview With Executive Director Holly Cordill
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School ToursVillage Sampler (3 buildings): Experience a sampling of 19th century life with visits to our one room school, farmhouse and either the tollgate house, general store or log cabin.
School Combination: Students experience a morning in the school in this teacher conducted program, then visit two or more buildings after lunch. McGuffey’s Readers, slates and teacher’s manuals are provided. BIG History Lessons: Students, teachers, and parents use the Village as their classroom for up to a week. Check our calendar for available dates, then email or call us today to book your school tour! Teachers ~ to allow us enough time to obtain the best docents for your visit, please book your school visit a minimum of two weeks in advance. BIG History Lessons require a minimum of 4 weeks notice. |
The Village Chapel
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