Conversation with a Member
Carolyn Candler
How long have you been a member of the Grosse Pointe Historical Society?
I’ve belonged to the Society for about 5 years, and been on the board for 1
1
⁄
2
years.
What prompted you to join?
I was fascinated by the historical homes here. I have always liked the idea of
preserving these homes as best as we can. People may not realize that in about
10-15 years, the majority of homes in Grosse Pointe will be more than one hundred
years old. Very few places in the country have an area as large as we do with homes
one hundred years old.
I am also interested in historical homes because of my family, who came here in
1843 and became home builders after the demise of their shipping business (after
sailing ships become obsolete). Their original home was located near what is now the
City County Building near the Detroit River. My uncle, Henry Candler, donated quite a few things to the Burton
Historical Library collection regarding the settling of Detroit.
What are some of the best things you enjoy about being a member?
I really enjoy the events. They are so interesting and really a lot of fun. You meet the most interesting people
from very diverse backgrounds. The activities geared toward young families, like the Legends of the Fall, are terrific.
I was really impressed with how much the people attending enjoyed the event.
I also enjoy the people involved with the Society. The members and board members are so dynamic, so hardworking
and very professional. It’s a great group to belong to.
What are some of the most important things the Society does?
I think just making people in the community aware of all we have to offer, and all that Grosse Pointe has to offer, like
the resources that would help people learn more about the homes in the area and the people who lived in them. The
activities really help bring all that to people’s minds.
Why is it important to preserve and promote the history of Grosse Pointe?
In Grosse Pointe, it’s not just one historic house--it’s a whole community of wonderful old homes. The quality is
incredible. You can’t buy a house that's made as beautifully as the houses were in the 20s and 30s. You can’t get that
quality of construction: beautiful detailing, gorgeous molding, and pretty wood libraries. You can’t buy that any more.
It’s important to preserve all that or at least make people appreciate what they have.
Personal
Family:
two grown sons
Career:
associate broker with Bolton Johnston Assoc.
Home:
has lived in Grosse Pointe for 20 years. Before that she lived in Indian Village and Lafayette Park,
in a Mies Van Der Rohe development
7
Carolyn Candler
Grosse Pointe Historical Society Membership Form
❒
Senior Citizen $25.00
❒
Donor
$125.00
❒
Individual
$35.00
❒
Benefactor
$250.00
❒
Family
$50.00
❒
Major Benefactor
$500.00
❒
Friend
$75.00
❒
Lifetime (may be paid over
three-year period)
$1,000.00
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