Edward E. Hartwick Memorial Building facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Edward E. Hartwick Memorial Building
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 Location in Michigan
Location in the United States
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| Location | Hartwick Pines Rd., Grayling Charter Township |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1929 |
| Architect | Ralph B. Herrick |
| Architectural style | Rustic log |
| NRHP reference No. | 98001216 |
| Added to NRHP | October 1, 1998 |
The Edward E. Hartwick Memorial Building is a special museum building located in Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling Charter Township, Michigan. This historic building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1998, recognizing its importance. It stands as a beautiful example of early park architecture.
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What is the Hartwick Memorial Building?
The Edward E. Hartwick Memorial Building is a unique structure made mostly from logs. It is about 71 feet long and 46 feet wide. The building has a wide porch at the front, perfect for relaxing. This porch is covered by the main roof, making it a cozy spot.
Inside, you'll find a large main hall with a tall, open ceiling. There's also a huge fireplace made of fieldstone, which looks very impressive. A second-floor area, called a mezzanine, overlooks the main hall. This building is a great example of the "rustic log" style of architecture. This style was popular in Michigan State Parks during the 1920s and 1930s.
Why Was the Building Constructed?
The story of the Hartwick Memorial Building begins in 1927. That year, Mrs. Karen Hartwick gave a large piece of land to the Michigan Department of Conservation. This land later became the beautiful Hartwick Pines State Park.
Mrs. Hartwick wanted to honor her husband, Major Edward E. Hartwick. He was a brave soldier who died fighting in World War I. So, in 1929, the Department of Conservation built this special building as a memorial to him.
Who Designed the Building?
It is believed that Ralph B. Herrick designed the building. He was an architect from the firm Herrick and Simpson. His design helped create the rustic look that makes the building so special.
How Did the Great Depression Affect Construction?
After the main building was started, plans were made for other structures in the park. These included a house, a barn, a small campground, and a parking area. However, work had to stop because of the Great Depression. This was a very difficult time when many people lost their jobs.
Work on the park resumed in 1933. This was when workers from the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) arrived. The CCC was a program that helped young men find work during the Depression. These workers finished the inside of the Memorial Building. They also built other important structures throughout the park.
What is the Building Used for Today?
For many years, the Edward E. Hartwick Memorial Building served as a museum and visitor center. It helped people learn about the park's history and the logging industry.
In 1994, a brand new visitor's center was built in the park. Since 2012, the original Memorial Building has been vacant. However, it remains an important historical landmark.
Gallery
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Early photo of the building
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Major Edward E. Hartwick
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Interior
