Farmington's Governor Warner Mansion Aims at Self-Sufficiency

Volunteers from the in Farmington told city officials Monday they're looking back on a banner year – and forward to a special December event.

Christiane Lenz, a docent, said attendance at the city-owned museum has been up in 2011, thanks to events like summer Porch Parties, a Ghost Walk and Founders Festival activities in July. She said volunteers raised enough funds during the year to contribute to the building's upkeep.

Volunteer Sharon Bernath said events were created "to bring more people of all ages to the mansion. Part of the goal is for people to create memories of the mansion ... and hopefully, they may decide to support the mansion financially when possible."

Docents dressed in Victorian garb have distributed flyers at the Farmington Farmers and Artisans Market and at the , and the Warnerettes suffragette parasol brigade performed during the Founders Festival parade and at a parade in Northville, raising awareness for the museum, named for Michigan's only 3-term governor, Fred M. Warner.

Bernath said volunteers are planning events in 2012 that will keep the mansion moving forward.

"We expect the increased success at the mansion will translate into success in all of Farmington," Bernath said, adding that people who visit also look for places to eat and shop in downtown Farmington.

Bernath said volunteers are working with the Farmington Area Jaycees on a Dec. 3 holiday tree lighting that will include caroling with the Farmington Community Chorus, raffles, refreshments and a visit from Santa Claus. Held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., the event features a Toys for Tots drive, collecting new, unwrapped toys that will be given to children in need in the Farmington area.

City clerk Sue Halberstadt, who oversees the mansion, pointed out that a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization has been formed to secure grants, pursue endowments and other donations to make the mansion self-sustaining. Officials budgeted about $45,000 for upkeep in 2010-2011.

"I see all good things for the mansion going forward," Halberstadt said. "These ladies have taken community service to a whole new level."