Birmingham in Oakland County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Allen House
Photographed By Joel Seewald, December 27, 2022
1. Allen House Marker
The Allen House, built in 1928, stands on land purchased by Elijah Willits from the federal government in December 1818. The first structure built on the land was a public elementary school, erected in 1856, which was used until 1869, when Hill School was built to house grades one through twelve.
At that time, the little brick schoolhouse was sold and made into a private residence. The house changed hands several times until the 1920s, when Harry and Marion Allen became the owners.
Mr. Harry Allen (1882-1957) was Birmingham's first Mayor after the City officially incorporated in 1933. In the process of enlarging the old schoolhouse, it collapsed and the present house was built in its place. The bricks from the old school were used to create the facade you see in front of you.
The city bought the property in 1969, with the intention of eventually turning it into a historical museum. The Birmingham Historical Museum was officially opened on May 19, 2001.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Education • Government & Politics • Notable Buildings. A significant historical month for this entry is December 1818.
Location. 42° 32.801′ N, 83° 13.207′ W. Marker is in Birmingham, Michigan, in Oakland County. Marker is at the intersection of
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Hill Building Bell (within shouting distance of this marker); John West Hunter Park (within shouting distance of this marker); The John W. Hunter House (within shouting distance of this marker); Hunter House (within shouting distance of this marker); Baldwin Park (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Field Building (approx. ¼ mile away); The Quarton Building (approx. ¼ mile away); City Hall (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Birmingham.
Also see . . . The 1926 Harry and Marion Clizbe Allen House. Article about the house and family on the Birmingham Museum's website. (Submitted on December 28, 2022, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.)
Photographed By Joel Seewald, December 27, 2022
2. Allen House and Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on December 28, 2022. It was originally submitted on December 28, 2022, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan. This page has been viewed 120 times since then and 20 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 28, 2022, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.
