Brighton Area Historical Society

09/02/2026

Brighton’s Southwest corner of E Grand River Ave and W Main Street, Through the Past 120 Years:

Great photos of the south west corner of Brighton’s Main Four looking through time.

How far back do you remember?

09/02/2026

Did you know these facts about Grand River Ave?

• In its earliest days it was a narrow path formed by four legged animals. It zigzagged from Detroit to Howell as animals chose higher ground to run and avoid the many post-glacial marshes and lakes.

• In its early days it was known as Grand River Indian Trail(1830-1840).

• The trail was enlarged when the brand new city of Lansing became the state capital in 1847. Commerce between Detroit and Lansing continued the need for trail improvements.

• In 1850 the state approved the construction of Detroit-Howell Plank Road . A continuous path of 3” thick planks ranging in length of 12-14’(road width) and ran this entire length. It was said a stagecoach could be heard a great distance away due to the horses hooves and wagon wheels vibrating the wooden structure of the roadway.

• In August 2026 the Brighton Area Historical Society started its new free exhibit on the history and landmarks of the Grand River Trail inside the City of Brighton Arts, Culture and History (CoBACH) Center at 202 W Main Street. Drop in and spend some time and study the early photos that show landmarks and describe the history of well known establishments along this historic route.

Do you remember hearing of the oldtime restaurants such as the Botsford Inn in Farmington or the New Hudson Inn? Stop by, check out the old photos and learn some history!

Cobach Center is open:
Wed-Fri 5-8pm; Sat 11-5pm; Sun 2-5 pm

09/02/2026

09/02/2026

Lyon School, Circular Style Bench,
Final Pictures:

Yesterday’s photos show assembly work in progress. A fine job in building a beautiful circular bench.

Prior to delivery, sub-assembly and final assembly the ground was leveled with top soil and then tamped. Cedar mulch was the final piece of work after assembly and it was likewise tamped to minimize being displaced by people walking on it.

A very fine job! Thank you scout Matthew Nicholson for your excellent effort!

09/02/2026

Lyon School, Another Excellent Eagle Scout Project:

The Brighton Area Historical Society has been the benefactor of another excellent Eagle Scout Project. This is the 4th Project in the last decade. Kudos to BHS senior scout Matthew Nicholson for raising the funds and constructing the circular style bench and enlisting friends to help with assembly and installation.

The circular bench wraps around the evergreen and will be a wonderful place for visitors to relax and embrace pleasantries.

This Eagle Scout project is grateful to the community support of several local businesses. The donation of landscape materials from LoRea Topsoil & Aggregate and for transport of the bench assembly from the Corrigan Company. A final assembly picture will be posted tonight.

Thank you to Matthew Nicholson & parent Jeff for this fine job!

08/28/2026

Lawrence Autobody, Almost 50 Years:

Quality work breeds success! Business growth is the result of happy, very satisfied clients!

Examine the photos showing the growth over the years. Still a family run business. Today Mike Lawrence, son of founders Larry and Kate Lawrence continues the excellent body work and family friendly operations.

Lawrence Autobody has been a major supporter and sponsor of the Brighton Area Historical Society for many years. The BAHS wishes them continued success as they approach their 50th Anniversary!

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08/28/2026

Brighton’s James Morgan’s and Sons,
115-117 W Grand River Ave:

What are your memories of this location?

Did the Mercury rear window go down fully or only partially as seen in the photo?

Can you share information about the unique 2nd floor apartment that used to extend over the alley on the left that I believe City of Brighton forced the building owner to remove?

Back during the dealership days, were offices located on the second floor or were there only apartments? What was located in the basement?

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08/26/2026

Music Folks-Your Help Is Needed:

This postcard from 1910 was donated to the Brighton Area Historical Society about 10 years ago in hope of learning about this club.

It is unknown if the name Brighton Mandolin Club has any association with the village of Brighton, Michigan.

The families involved possibly with this photo are the Grinde, Sorbel and Stavig folks.

Kings Landing is located north of Lapeer, Michigan on the Eastside of Miller Lake(see photo).

Any help would be appreciated!

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08/21/2026

Do You Recall Dining In Chuck’s Diner,
111 W Grand River Ave?

How long did this mini diner survive? Was it breakfast and lunch only?

Having received haircuts here from Jerry Generoux for years I was familiar with the small interior layout. Was there a grill on the wall opposite the entry door? How many tables were there inside 3 or 4?

Was Chuck the owner-cook? Looking forward to hearing about this business and its operations.

The address on the matchbooks say 111 N Grand River Ave. There was a period of time when Brighton street signs identified Grand River as either North or South. Today signs speak of E Grand River or W Grand River Ave.

Thanks for your help!

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08/20/2026

Take A Journey On The Grand River Trail:

The Brighton Area Historical Society and its exhibit team has assembled a really fine educational exhibit showcasing Michigan’s history. Visit the City of Brighton Arts, Culture and History Center(CoBACH) and experience the images and memories of traveling one of Michigan’s oldest pathways, Grand River Trail. This free exhibit at the CoBACH Center is now open to the public Wed-Fri, 5-8pm; Sat, 11-5pm; Sun 2-5pm, closed Mon&Tues. Location is downtown at 202 W Main St

You will see a wonderful timeline showing the villages as you transit along the Trail from Detroit to Grand Rapids. Photos with information show some businesses and sights that were important in the development of these communities and commerce in our Great Lakes State.

This exhibit will be open until mid-November. Stop in before or after experiencing one of many Brighton’s exceptional downtown restaurants or really cool Main Street stores such as Wallflower Mercantile, and Town to Trail Outfitters. You will not be disappointed!

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