NORTHVILLIANS,
Today, I’m writing about past holiday Northville traditions. One of my grandfathers (the electrician in town) told stories about Henry Ford, and how he and wife Clara had their honeymoon here in the 1880’s and hosted Christmas square dances locally. My other grandfather (the barber) spoke about touching up Henry’s hair on occasion, especially before Holiday functions in the Ville.
Then, early in the 1900’s, electricity hit its stride in town and Mr. Ford, who brought his friend Thomas Edison along with the others in their “Vagabonds Group” here, supported lighting the town with colorful seasonal lights (similar to Wayne County’s Lightfest).
NORTHVILLE OPERA HOUSE HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES – During the 1800’s and early 1900’s, Holiday Shows at the historic Northville Opera House (Cannelle Bakery today) were a highlight of the Season for all in southeast Michigan. At that time, folks came to town via stagecoach, train, and trolley to attend festive holiday events.
Before looking at historic Holiday activities in Northville, let’s see what’s happening in town today:
- Upcoming Music/Concerts/Events – Marquis Link, NOMI Link, Genitti’s Link
TASK FORCE MEETINGS
- Bicentennial Task Force Mtg – 2/12/26, 7PM City Hall (Rick Sharpe – Chair)
- Cemetery Renewal Task Force – 3/23/26, 7PM City Hall (Dave Marold – Chair)
(See Link for information or Link to donate/support)
Projects Around Town
- FORD FIELD – Despite cold weather, work continues at the vista overlook which will be completed by Spring. Check out the new fencing next to the ADA entry way at Ford Field. The Vista and the Fort Griswold playscape work will also be completed in the spring.
- RIVERWALK – The City received notification from the State that we are the recipient of the M-Parks award for 2025. This is, in part, because of our Riverpark, the Ford Field renovations and the pathway connectivity north to Mackinaw City and south to Ohio, linking our city & township to County & State parks. Catch a view of the Parks from our Farmers’ Market area on Seven Mile. Additionally, the Beal Street sidewalk just reopened.
- DOWNS INITIATIVE – Roundabout (Sheldon/7 Mile) is now open - prior to the holidays!
- NORTHVILLE COMMUNITY FARMERS’ MARKET AREA – Township/City Events will continue here.
- GRANTS that Support Northville’s Community Initiatives (Over $16M) – Link
Holiday Events Historically chronicled in Northville:
TREE LIGHTINGS – Tree lighting ceremonies have occurred since the arrival of electricity in our town. Additionally, in times past, Northville created a holiday canopy of colorful lights crossing the streets that many Michiganders came to see. In recent times, tree lightings have occurred at Mill Race Village, the Community Center, Preservation Dental, and Town Square.
CAROLING – Traditionally, during and after the Tree lightings, Christmas Carol sing-alongs would be led by the Northville Community band and the High School Choir. In recent years, the Northville Chorale along with the Northville Choir have both sung at the tree lightings.
HOLIDAY MOVIES – A 1955 Northville Record article spoke about the tradition of Christmas movies being shown before the holiday break to all school children at the Penniman-Allen Theatre (today the Marquis). School Superintendent Russell Amerman (namesake for Amerman School) played Santa at the event. This tradition could resurrect itself in the near future.
SANTA – Through the years, Santa has come to town via sleigh, and various vehicles including a red pickup, fire trucks, trains, and trolleys. And believe it or not, even by helicopter in 1971.
TRADITIONS – Many Northville traditions have occurred over the years, including annual Christmas Walks, Caroling and lighted Santa Parades that welcomed old Kris Kringle. We’ve seen horse & buggy rides, a Christmas trolley, Holiday Home Tours and Greens Markets, and even Candlelight Walks with luminaries lining downtown streets. The churches in times past rang their bells simultaneously at Midnight of Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. I believe we should engage in this tradition again this coming year. As mentioned previously, the Mill Race Village team always gets into the spirit by decorating their Victorian grounds.
In closing, I truly wish each and every one of you a joyous Holiday Season, spending time with family and friends in your life. As always, I encourage you to share your time & talents with those in need around you. Get out and experience the Cheer of the season!
Keep that Northville Holiday Faith!
Brian Turnbull
Mayor – Northville