Detroit Publishing Company Collection, Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress
The GCHGS is excited to be involved with a new restoration project. Recently, we were contacted by several citizens of the Alma area concerning the historical A.W. Wright mansion at 503 N. State Street in Alma.
The Wright home was built from 1886 to 1888 for Ammi Wright and his second wife. Mr. Wright was an ambitious man and established many businesses in the area. Some of these include the Alma Roller Mills, Alma College, Masonic Home, the Wright Hotel, and Wright Avenue Park.
After the last of the Wright family passed away, it became a home to several groups. Over the years these included Smith Memorial Hospital, Northwood Institute, and Alma Public Schools. It has been vacant for decades and needs repair. It is hoped that the GCHGS, by partnering with many local citizens, will make this restoration a reality.
The community was able to raise $50,000 to purchase the home. We are now concentrating on raising funds to repair the roof and the sandstone blocks which are in disrepair. There is much to do; but hopefully, this historic home will be saved and benefit the Alma area for many years to come.
Donations for this endeavor can be made to the GCHGS, P.O. Box 73, Ithaca, Michigan 48847.