House Moving Michigan

Historical Preservation in Michigan

Montague, Michigan USA

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MOVING DAY - JUNE 24, 2011

The historic Meinhardi building was moved to its new location on Hanson Street (near the Caboose Museum) on Friday, June 24. The procession passed down Division Street in Whitehall, MI at about 9:30 AM. Deitz House Moving Engineers, Inc. of Muskegon, MI accomplished the move flawlessly! Many interested locals joined in the festivities. Bob Harrell drove his beautiful antique Thunderbird to transport the Meinhardi family. With the local police chief leading the way, Five young musicians, riding in Jim & Carrie Miel's antique truck, (courtesy of Rycenga Lumber) provided accompanying music.

Helen Jean Meinhardi Arntz was the last remaining granddaughter of Dr.John Meinhardi, whose building we are restoring. We planned the move to coincide with her 94th birthday. Sadly she passed away just two weeks before the move. In accordance with the family wishes, we held a birthday party for Helen Jean complete with cake and beverages at the new site as we watched the historic building being situated. All enjoyed refreshment in her honor.

At the turn of the century, the Meinhardi building was a doctor's office and apothecary shop located on Mears in the 800 block. The building has been donated to the City of Whitehall and a small non-profit (We Can Do This Co.) moved, and will restore it. After restoration it will be a walk through museum open the public.

Helen Fink

We Can Do This Company, Inc. (501C-3)

Steel beams and jacking cribs used to lift a Building off its foundation prior to moving.

The building is loaded on wheels ready for the move. An antique model 'T' truck is hooked up for photo opportunities.

Another angle of the building loaded on wheels. Sixteen pneumatic tires support the structure as it parades past a community which was built as it stood in the shadows.

The actual pull truck hooked up and pulling the building down the road. The truck pulling is heavier than the building.

Another angle of the building loaded on wheels. Sixteen pneumatic tires support the structure as it parades past a community which was built as it stood in the shadows.

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