As a testament to the extensive history of Royal Oak, Michigan, the Royal Oak Historical Society has compiled a unique selection of artifacts from the city and the Civil War era that range from a rare photograph of Founding Father Abraham Lincoln to artifacts with ties to Royal Oak’s first mayor. Despite the exciting collection owned by the historical society, visitors to the museum have been declining due to COVID-19 restrictions and the lack of engagement from younger generations and those in their 50s and 60s.
The Royal Oak Historical Society, first established in 1939 as a social group where locals could gather to show off their family heirlooms with historic significance to the city, has grown exponentially since 2004. That year, they opened their museum to display Royal Oak artifacts and purchased an extensive selection from a local collector. Curator Muriel Versagi proudly states that they have strict standards for what can be included in the collection, requiring each item to be either from Royal Oak or belong to someone from the city. It’s a task that requires great care, as countless people are always eager to donate artifacts.
The collection contains a rare photograph of Abraham Lincoln taken by famed Civil War photographer Matthew Brady, which is one of only five known prints, and a treasured letter signed by Lincoln that was featured on the show “History Detectives.” All of these items were included in the initial donation from George Dondero, son of Royal Oak’s first mayor, who was devoted to Abraham Lincoln’s memory and collected anything associated with him.
Despite this unique collection, unfortunately, the museum has faced the challenges of COVID-19 restrictions and a decline in visitors. However, the museum has received a lot of visitors from people who have bought homes in Royal Oak looking to research their homes, though it is challenging to get younger people involved. Additionally, they are missing a whole segment of people in their 50s and 60s who usually tend to be interested in history.
Matthew Day, a long-time resident of the city and librarian of the Royal Oak Public Library, proudly reminisces on the bygone days of Royal Oak’s “folksy, quiet, small city” history. Visiting his favorite bookshop, Kresge’s soda fountain, and watching the train click through downtown all gave him a strong sense of community he still fondly remembers today. While Royal Oak has shifted away from its original family focus over the years, Day still feels the spirit of the old city coursing through the streets.
This is especially evident in the city’s annual Halloween parade, high school football games, and Memorial Day parade. In particular, Day notes that the Christmas tree lighting ceremony and the Memorial Day parade remain two of the most beloved events for Royal Oakians.
Despite a tragedy that shook the city in 1991, Royal Oak residents found solace in their community’s strength and resilience. After a disgruntled postal worker opened fire on his colleagues at the post office, killing four people, the Red Cross showed up with food and comfort. The library opened its doors to offer a safe space for more than one hundred traumatized people. Through this experience, the townspeople of Royal Oak were reminded of how powerful their communal support could be.
Berkeley and Ferndale police officers self-dispatched as soon as they heard about the event, while Coleman Young’s office also offered help. Restaurants from across the city sent food to the library to provide support and comfort for those affected. Through this incredible show of solidarity, the Royal Oak community was able to come together in a time of need.
Despite the tragic nature of the event, it allowed Royal Oak to proudly display its sense of community and connection amongst its citizens. An estimated three thousand people attended the memorial service, signifying the strong bonds held between members of the city. Royal Oak continues to strive towards the sustenance and nurturing of these strong ties as it continues to develop and grow.
The Washington Square building, which was once the tallest building in the city, now stands as a testament to the resilience of Royal Oak’s community. Built-in 1927, it was the original site of the Royal Oak Hospital and later became Beaumont Hospital. Its farmer’s market has also been preserved and was saved from demolition in 1996 and is currently waiting for official historic designation. Once a small community produces sales, it is now one of the largest year-round markets in Metro Detroit.
The Royal Oak Historical Society museum serves as both an insightful trip through the city’s past and a reminder of its historical connections with Abraham Lincoln. Although attendance numbers have not been what they used to be due to the pandemic, the museum has managed to remain strong thanks to local donors and new residents looking to connect with their homes. Through its collections, this historic organization can share memories and meaningful artifacts with the people of Royal Oak that exemplify the city’s historical significance and importance. The story of the Royal Oak Historical Society and its preserve lends a continuing focus on preserving and heralding in another generation to witness its unique but integral history.
