About Us

Since 1974, the Oakland Township Historical Society has worked to preserve, interpret, and share the history of Oakland Township and the people who have called it home.

Who We Are

The Oakland Township Historical Society was founded in 1974 by Delta Kelly, Barbara Kandarian, and Jeanne Phillips. What began as a local effort to preserve the township's history has grown into an organization dedicated to collecting records, preserving historic places, documenting community life, and sharing Oakland Township's story.

Our Mission

To gather, interpret, and preserve the history of Oakland Township.

Our Home at Cranberry Lake Farm

OTHS leases space within the 16-acre Cranberry Lake Farm Historic District in township-owned Cranberry Lake Park. The historic farmstead serves as a community historical center for meetings, programs, collections, exhibits, preservation projects, and local history activities.

Cranberry Lake Farm is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is recognized with a Michigan Historical Marker.

Explore Cranberry Lake Farm

What We Do

Collect Local History

OTHS preserves photographs, documents, maps, family records, artifacts, and other materials that tell the story of Oakland Township.

Preserve Historic Places

The Society supports preservation work at Cranberry Lake Farm and other historic sites and structures throughout the township.

Document Farms & Barns

OTHS completed an extensive survey documenting historic farmsteads and barns across Oakland Township.

Record Oral Histories

The Society records and preserves the memories of longtime residents so that personal experiences remain part of the township's historical record.

Share Local History

OTHS presents exhibits, historical programs, publications, community events, and online resources for the public.

Maintain Historical Collections

Archival collections at Cranberry Lake Farm support research into Oakland Township families, places, businesses, farms, and organizations.

Preserving the Historical Record

Farm & Barn Survey

The OTHS barn survey team documented and photographed 62 Oakland Township farmsteads containing at least one barn more than 50 years old. Documentation includes site plans, structural details, photographs, and site histories.

Oral Histories, Documents & Artifacts

OTHS records and transcribes oral histories of longtime residents and welcomes photographs, documents, household furnishings, farm tools, and other materials that reflect the community's heritage.

Publications & Historical Resources

A Footpath thru Goodison History — walking tour brochure
Oakland Township Heritage & Civil War Bus Tour
Heritage in Oakland Township booklet
Oakland Township historical note cards
Historical Oakland Township maps from 1857, 1872, 1896, 1908, 1921, and 1947

In the Community

OTHS participates in community events and works with local organizations to promote and preserve Oakland Township history.

For information about current programs and upcoming events, visit our Special Events page or follow OTHS on Facebook.

View Special Events