Imagine it's 1824 and you've just traveled from the east to an exciting new town 20 miles west of Detroit. You are one of the first settlers — along with the Arthur Power, who christened the settlement "Farmington" after his hometown in New York. Life is challenging, but you know this is where you and your descendants will make a great life among the woods and rivers of Michigan.

Fast forward 100 years to 1924. Farmington residents have recovered from the Great War and have just said goodbye, the year before, to our beloved Fred Warner, who served as Michigan's Governor from 1905-1911. After serving three terms, Fred came back to Farmington to help build support and investment in supporting our troops. While Governor, Fred Warner was a champion of women's suffrage, well before the 19th Amendment was ratified in 1920.

200 years from when Arthur Power first arrived, Farmington thrives. Not only has it grown to a population of more than 10,000, but it boasts of its breadth of business, culture, and diversity. More than 80 languages are spoken in the homes of Farmington Public Schools' students. And of course, we continue to put our mark on Michigan government. Our state's Lieutenant Governor, Garlin Gilchrist II, graduated from Farmington High School!

We have much to be proud of. To mark the occasion of its bicentennial, the City of Farmington is joined by the Farmington/Farmington Hills Education Foundation and KickstART Farmington to put on a party to remember. Proceeds benefit education and art initiatives in our community. (The Education Foundation and KickstART organizations are 501(c)(3) charitable organizations.)

Join us Saturday, July 27th at the Governor Warner Mansion from 7:30-10pm. Sponsored by Robertson Brothers Homes, the Bicentennial Gala will feature entertainment, strolling food stations of small plates, signature cocktails and mocktails, 1824 Farmhouse Ale/Cider, an art raffle, and many special — very special — guests in attendance.

VIP RECEPTION SOLD OUT And to kick it up to high gear, you can purchase a VIP ticket that includes a pre-event reception at Heights Brewing/Dinan Park in downtown Farmington. The VIP reception, sponsored by McCarthy & Smith Construction Services, runs from 6-7pm. All VIP guests will receive a commemorative wine glass.

Bicentennial Gala

By FARMINGTON-FARMINGTON HILLS EDUCATION FOUNDATION

Bicentennial Gala

Toast to Farmington ~ Sponsored by Robertson Brothers Homes