Why are St. Martha’s Commons important?
The site of St. Martha’s Commons was purchased by Henry Ford’s great-grandfather, George Ford. The Ford family cemetery is located on the site. Henry and Clara Ford are buried in the cemetery along with other Ford family members. The former St. Martha’s Episcopal Church building is also here, built by Clara Bryant Ford and named in memory of her mother.
Our Story
St. Martha’s Commons is a community commons that brings together people from diverse generations, spiritual and personal backgrounds, races, and physical and mental capacities to promote the wellbeing of all and the environment in which they live. In 2010, we formed a community-based steering committee to determine the adaptive reuse and redevelopment of the church, two houses, senior citizen apartments, and surrounding land.
Visit Us
15801 Joy Rd.
Detroit, MI 48228
Contact Us
Roger Myers
(248) 281-2020
Rmeyers@pvm.org
The Vision
St. Martha’s Commons vision was developed at the request of Canterbury-on-the-Lake and the Presbyterian Villages of Michigan (PVM). The strategic plan calls for multi-denominational worship services at the church, design and implementation of a Women of Ford Cultural Exhibit, and development of a health and wellness center, meditation gardens, and office space for community based non-profits. It is a special gathering place of historical value for the surrounding neighborhood.
Help Make History
We need financial and logistical support to development and implementation the Women of Ford Cultural Exhibit, including designing and creating exhibits, training docents, and creating publicity materials. We hope to open the exhibit in early 2013. Marketing support for the historical site and the Women of Ford exhibit is greatly needed.
Donate Now (Checks payable to)
Presbyterian Villages of Michigan
26200 Lahser
Detroit, MI 48033