Leelanau Historical Society features architect Jens C. Petersen

From staff reports

Join the Leelanau Historical Society on Wednesday, June 20, at 4 p.m. for the program Jens C. Petersen: From Bricklayer to Architect: The Life and Works of a Visionary Michigan Architect, based on Julie Schopieray’s newly-published book. Petersen lived in northern Michigan for nearly 35 years. Come hear Schopieray reveal which Leelanau County buildings were designed by Petersen and see samples of his nationwide designs.

Historian and published biographer Julie Schopieray once again brings an unknown figure to life. Those familiar with Northern Michigan, will wonder why they had not heard of Petersen before—and will appreciate learning about this remarkable man who lived in Northern Michigan for nearly 35 years.

Most likely the first licensed architect to ever work in Michigan, Petersen opened his first office in the State Bank building in 1904. He gained a reputation throughout the United States and across the globe before moving to Sacramento, where he died. During his lifetime, he designed thousands of homes and buildings; many that still stand today. Although “architect” is the title that followed his name, Petersen was also an innovator and successful marketer. He designed affordable homes for the average working person by utilizing concrete instead of lumber and advertised his services worldwide—which few if any others did in the early twentieth century. This book is complete with a riveting tale of a man who was focused, dedicated to quality, and never let “bumps” slow him down.

The Leelanau Historical Society is located at 203 E. Cedar Street in Leland. For more information call Kim Kelderhouse at 231-256-7475.