by Judy Williams

On June 15, the Stockbridge Area Garden Club visited the historic farm and gardens of Bob and Sandy Mottice in Manchester. Club members were utterly amazed to see the old buildings, including a log house, smokehouse, schoolhouse, blacksmith forge and carpenter shop, on the couple’s property. Over the years, beginning in 1983, these buildings were moved to their property and lovingly restored by the couple.

The day brought a surprise for the Mottices as well, when they learned their restored log cabin had been the home of Ann Catharine and Wilhelm Heinrich, who just happened to be the great-great-grandparents of visiting garden club member, Mary Wilson of Stockbridge!

The Mottices are hosting an event on September 19 to showcase their restoration efforts. Join them at 20830 E. Pleasant Lake Road to view special demonstrations for making butter, sauerkraut, and hand-ground and smoked sausage. Blacksmiths and woodworkers will also be showcased, along with live music, vendors, and food trucks. The event is free; however, a small fee will be collected for parking, which is used to help pay for insurance and upscale toilet facilities.

All photos by Judy Williams.