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Clinton Sawmill Museum Seeks Lumber Donations

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. inton-sawmill-museum-seeks-lumber-donations.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, February 2nd 2026 at 12:01 GMT by WHBF Davenport
      Locales: Michigan, UNITED STATES

CLINTON, MI - February 2nd, 2026 - The Clinton Sawmill Museum, a treasured local landmark dedicated to preserving the region's rich lumber heritage, is urgently seeking donations of hardwood lumber to repair the decaying floor of its fully-operational sawmill building. The museum, built on the historic site of a once-thriving sawmill, relies on public support to maintain its unique exhibits and ensure visitor safety.

For decades, the Clinton Sawmill Museum has served as a living testament to the vital role the lumber industry played in shaping the local economy and landscape. Unlike many historical museums which simply display artifacts, Clinton's museum actively demonstrates the processes of early lumber production. The fully restored sawmill, a centerpiece of the museum grounds, regularly comes to life with demonstrations showcasing the techniques used by loggers and mill workers in the early 20th century - and even earlier. This hands-on approach provides a truly immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

"We're facing a challenge that, if left unaddressed, could severely impact our ability to operate and safely welcome visitors," explains Robert Allen, the museum's director. "The wooden floor of our sawmill building is starting to decay, and needs replacing with hardwood. It's a critical issue impacting both accessibility and, more importantly, the safety of those who come to experience the sawmill in action."

The deterioration is a natural consequence of age and exposure to the elements, despite ongoing maintenance. The original flooring, while authentic to the period, is succumbing to rot and wear, creating uneven surfaces and potential hazards. Replacing it with durable, high-quality hardwood is essential to ensuring the long-term preservation of this historical treasure.

The museum is specifically requesting donations of usable hardwood lumber, including oak, maple, ash, or other comparable species. Allen emphasizes they are looking for "reasonable amounts" - any contribution, no matter the size, will be gratefully accepted and put to good use. The museum is equipped to process and install the donated lumber, minimizing expenses and maximizing the impact of each contribution.

This appeal comes at a time when the preservation of historical skills and trades is gaining increasing recognition. With the decline of traditional industries, museums like the Clinton Sawmill Museum play a crucial role in educating future generations about the techniques, tools, and livelihoods of their ancestors. The museum's collection extends beyond the sawmill itself, encompassing a comprehensive array of logging and milling tools, artifacts, and photographs that paint a vivid picture of the industry's past.

The museum's seasonal operation allows dedicated volunteers to focus on restoration and preservation efforts during the off-season. However, the flooring issue has become pressing enough to warrant a public appeal. The museum isn't simply seeking funding; they're appealing to the community's pride in its heritage and their willingness to contribute to a tangible preservation effort.

"The sawmill is a significant local landmark," Allen states passionately. "It's not just a building; it's a representation of a vital industry that once defined this area. We want to ensure that future generations can walk on that floor, see the machinery in action, and understand the hard work and ingenuity that built this community."

Those interested in donating hardwood lumber or learning more about the Clinton Sawmill Museum can contact the museum directly at 989-236-4193. Donations are tax-deductible, and the museum is happy to provide receipts for accounting purposes. The museum also welcomes inquiries from potential volunteers interested in assisting with ongoing preservation projects. A dedicated webpage detailing the museum's needs and donation guidelines is expected to launch later this week, according to museum officials.