Weighing approximately 300 pounds each, the new rear doors for the Edsel Ford Barn in Highland State Recreation Area

The Friends of Highland Recreation Area volunteers are proud to reveal a first look at the giant newly-rebuilt rear doors for the Edsel Ford Barn. The doors as shown in the photos were completed to this level of construction at a recent FOHRA weekend volunteer work bee. Friends group volunteers support the Michigan Department of Natural Resources with park events, historic restoration projects such as this, and park amenities, among other things.

The historic Barn, which is located in the Haven Hill section of Highland State Recreation Area in Highland/White Lake, Michigan, was once a major structure in a collection of buildings that comprised Edsel and Eleanor Ford’s former Haven Hill estate. Prior to a severe storm in June of 2008 the Barn extended the entire length of the visible concrete pad from north to south. High winds destroyed the long southerly expanse of the Barn, and what now remains is the functional front-end. Therefore the existing rear doors as they now stand were actually inside the Barn, and are now exposed to the elements as exterior doors. These new doors will replace the old doors now visible to Park visitors.

Above: 2 GIANT new rear doors for the Edsel Ford Barn

Progress continues on the restoration of this beloved and historic structure. The installation of new doors is targeted to occur prior to the July 27 Haven Hill Festival.

Browse the FOHRA website and Facebook entries, make donations, and come to the Park and volunteer. Look for a list of upcoming events at Highland State Recreation Area at www.fohravolunteers.org.

Headquartered in Highland Township, Michigan, the Friends of Highland Recreation Area is a nonprofit 501c3 organization comprised of Michigan residents, private businesses, local user groups, and various resource organizations, working to combine the existing activities and amenities of Highland State Recreation Area, with the unique historical and cultural background of Edsel and Eleanor Ford's former Haven Hill estate.