November 13, 2025 Benzonia Academy Lecture Series: “100 Years of Serving the Community: Benzonia Public Library & Mills Community House” Presented by Jane Purkis & Jimmy McLaren

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“100 Years of Serving the Community: 

Benzonia Public Library & Mills Community House.”

Presented by: Jane Purkis & Jimmy McLaren

November 13, 2025, 4 pm*  *Please note start time change*

The Mills Community House & ZOOM

ZOOM Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84514741692

Join the Benzie Area Historical Society for their upcoming monthly Benzonia Academy Lecture on Thursday, November 13th, at 4 pm at the Mills Community House.  Jane Purkis and Jimmy McLaren will share the history of the Benzonia Public Library and Mills Community House, celebrating their 100 years of service to the community.

Presenter: Jane Purkis

Originally from Saginaw, Jane has degrees from Albion College and the University of Michigan.   She came up north to teach at the Benzie schools and spent her whole career at Crystal Lake School.  Jane became involved with the museum about 35 years ago and began working with the artifacts under the direction of her mentor, Florence Bixby.  She is currently the curator and sits on the Collections, Programs and Exhibits, and Education Committees.  Learning the history of where you live makes you a better member of your community.

Presenter: Jimmy McLaren

Growing up with roots in Benzie County, Jimmy McLaren developed a deep interest in the region’s history.  Since he was a preschooler, he has spent many hours in the Mills Community House and Benzonia Public Library; Today, he’s grateful to play parts in both the Friends of the Benzonia Public Library and the Mills Community House Association.

This presentation is part of the Benzie Area Historical Society’s Benzonia Academy Lecture Series, held on the second Thursday of each month.  Admission is by donation, with a recommended donation of $5.

To learn more about the November 13th lecture, visit the Benzie Area Historical Society’s website, benziemuseum.org, Instagram, or Facebook page; call the Museum at (231) 882-5539; or email info@benziemuseum.org.

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