St. Croix Shop fundraiser to help Birmingham Museum

BIRMINGHAM, MI, September 19, 2018—The St. Croix Shop will be hosting a special event to support local history, celebrate its new location in a famous Albert Kahn building in downtown Birmingham and conduct a special fundraising effort to help the Birmingham Museum on the weekend of September 28- September 30, 2018.

Located at 268 W. Maple in the Wabeek Building, manager Victoria Knight has focused on celebrating the famed architect’s local legacy, and helping her clientele appreciate Birmingham’s rich history. While working with the Birmingham Museum, a concept evolved into holding a special fund-raising event that will celebrate the past while supporting the museum and calling attention to the historical value of the community.

“When I found out that Albert Kahn designed our building, I couldn’t believe it. I contacted the museum to learn more about the building and its history,” said Knight. “I want my clients to know how special Birmingham is and that our shop is right in the middle of some of the most amazing history.”

The Wabeek Building was designed by Kahn for noted industrialist-philanthropist and politician James Couzens in 1928. The three story art deco structure was built at a cost of $200,000. Retail stores were located on the lower floor, and professional offices were located on the upper two floors. The original concept was for an eight story building. However, when local residents objected, it was scaled back to its existing three story height. Couzens, a former Mayor of the City of Detroit and U.S. Senator, kept an office in the building during his congressional tenure until 1936. The building also once housed the Wabeek Bank. The original vault is still part of the building.

“The St. Croix Shop Gives Back” will be held on the weekend of September 28-30, when the shop releases its fall lineup. Clients will receive a discount on purchases of regular priced merchandise in exchange for a donation to the museum. During the weekend, the museum will create a special display about the history of the building and its important architectural heritage. Recently donated historic images of Couzens and his early days at the Wabeek will be used in the temporary exhibit at the shop.

“Victoria’s enthusiasm is encouraging and a great reminder of the deep roots in our community,” said Leslie Pielack, Birmingham Museum Director. “There are many natural partnerships between the museum and local business about Birmingham’s fascinating history. When we collaborate, we create something that benefits all of us.”

To find out more, contact the St. Croix Shop at 248-816-1390 or the Birmingham Museum at 248-530-1928 or visit us online at www.bhamgov.org/museum.

The Birmingham Museum is located at 556 West Maple. Exhibit hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., and until 8:00 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month. Two hours of free parking is available at the Chester Street Parking Deck; credit card required for entry and exit. For more information, call 248-530-1928 or visit www.bhamgov.org/museum . Museum admission is $7 for adults; $5 for students and seniors. Kids 5 and under and Friends of the Birmingham Museum members are free.