Whaley holds annual event

The Whaley Historical House is having holiday festivities in December with the theme of “A Colorful Christmas.” Tours of the house include live music, a history of the Whaley family, information about life in Flint during the turn of the 18th century and decorations by area florists. Visitors will have the opportunity to make crafts celebrating the holiday season including writing a letter to St. Nick and making an advent calendar.

The Whaley House, designed by Detroit architect George Watkins, was built in 1884 and 1885. It remains the last home on Kearsley Street from the Victorian era. Robert Whaley, owner of the home and notable Flint resident was President of Citizens Bank for 41 years at the time of his death in 1922. Whaley issued a $2,000 loan to William C. Durant and J. Dallas Dort that led to the creation of General Motors. The Whaley family also created the Whaley Children’s Center and the McFarlan Home for Women.

Support for the Whaley House comes from the Whaley Foundation, incorporated in 1924, community organizations and private donations from Friends of the Whaley House Museum group.

A Colorful Christmas will be open to the public Fridays through Sundays throughout December. The house is also open to the public throughout the year on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, with the option to tour by appointment all other days of the week. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children 6 to 15.

Call 235-6841 or visit www.whaleyhouse.com for details.