Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com


A fundraiser is underway for a new fence and memorial at a historic school building in Brighton.

The Brighton Area Historical Society operates the 1885 Lyon Schoolhouse located at 11455 Buno Road.

A matching funds campaign is underway and being sponsored by Corrigan Oil Company in memory of the owners’ late mother, Bonnie Corrigan, to replace the fence at the schoolhouse. Funds raised will be matched up to $7,000.

Society President Nancy Fredenburg is settling in to her new position as president. Longtime President Jim Vichich stepped down after 18 years but remains on the board. Fredenburg has been involved with the society for around 28 years, in various projects and roles.

Fredenburg told WHMI this is their first matching campaign so they’re excited about the opportunity, and for the company making it happen. She said they’re looking to raise as much as possible for both the fence and a memorial, noting the schoolhouse is open on Thursdays from 9am to noon for anyone who want to stop by and visit. Fredenburg said that’s when they do their archive work but they are always open for people, and those who might want to chat Brighton history.

Fredenburg noted Bonnie Armstrong Corrigan and her brother Bill attended the Lyon School, and she had fond memories of the school and attended many events held there over the years. Fredenburg said she’s missed and they will be honoring her with a special memorial and plaque.

Fredenburg noted the Corrigan family named the Historical Society for Bonnie’s memorial contributions. That then launched the idea for the fundraising campaign to include a memorial in her honor and some signage about her history with the schoolhouse.

The schoolhouse is fully restored and functioning but after 30 years, the fence needs to be replaced. Fredenburg said it was really showing its age, the wood couldn’t be repainted any longer, and it was getting to be an eyesore and not a nice tribute to the building. The cost is pegged around $17,000.

Donations can be made online via the top provided link, or by mailing a check to P.O. Box 1163 Brighton, MI 48116.