The city of Grand Ledge is 125 years old this year and is a postmark on the map of Michigan for its historical landscapes and buildings.

   At the top of these historical roots in the community is the original Grand Ledge Baptist Church. The building itself is 139 years old, making it the oldest standing church building in the city, and if seen in person, the historic features and potential of the building are very visible. The last thing the building was used for was a center for homeschool teaching materials, but after years of foreclosure, a local business owner and interior designer Ann Duchene plans to turn the historic building into a modern 12-room artisan hotel.

   “After doing a lot of market research, I realized that what people want when they travelers rapidly changing,” said Duchene. “They want somewhere that is connected to the area, is technologically advanced, and offers them a new experience.”

   The remodeling of the 139 year old building will begin Jan. of 2019 and will come at a price of over $500,000, but Duchene plans to keep the outside of the building the same to keep the historic look and life of the building. The remodeling is set to be done in the fall of 2019 where it will be further known as “Rabbit and Mitten.” a luxury and affordable hotel, but also be a  progressive business model with intimate hospitality that the city of GL and the greater Lansing area has.

Community has a very big role in the the production and success of this project.

“Community support has been fantastic!” Says Duchene, “Not only did the city work with us to create a scenario that would allow a business like ours to open up in the downtown, but we’ve has extensive positive feedback along the way.”

   Duchene hopes to get the community involved local restaurants and bakeries involved to set up a delivery service so guests will also be able to enjoy the local foods that the city has to offer and Grand Ledge citizens are all in for Rabbit and Mitten.

   Brandi Eagen, a lifelong Grand Ledge Citizen and local female entrepreneur says,

   “I love the idea of this. It is very good to see that an old building is being used for something and just not forgotten because of the age and looks of the building.”

 Tim Williams is a Grand Ledge resident who was born and raised across the street from the historic church.

   “I remember going to church here when I was just a kid,”  Williams said. “It is really cool to see it (the church) not be abandoned and tore down because it is seen as useless. I am excited to see if it (Rabbit and Mitten) brings more people into Grand Ledge.”

   The remodeling of such a historic building in a strong community could start a wave realization that these older buildings have a lot of history and potential behind them.