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NILES — Governor Gretchen Whitmer is recognizing historic preservation projects across the state, including two in the City of Niles.

Whitmer announced Thursday morning that both the Chapin Mansion Restoration and the Fort St. Joseph Archaeology Project were among seven Michigan preservation projects awarded Governor’s Awards for Historic Preservation during a ceremony hosted by the State Historic Preservation Office. 

“It’s an honor to celebrate the 2025 Governor’s Awards for Historic Preservation,” said Governor Whitmer. “These awardees are helping us build a stronger Michigan by preserving the places and stories that define who we are. Their work honors our shared past while creating vibrant spaces where people want to live, work, and invest. Historic preservation is key to our ‘Make it in Michigan’ strategy of supporting jobs, growing local businesses, and fostering pride across our communities.” 

Now in its 22nd year, the Governor’s Awards for Historic Preservation program, held annually during National Historic Preservation Month, was created by SHPO to celebrate outstanding historic preservation achievements that reflect a commitment to the preservation of Michigan’s unique character and the many archaeological sites and historic places that represent our rich past. This year’s event took place in Heritage Hall at the Michigan State Capitol. 

“Each May, the State Historic Preservation Office is proud to recognize outstanding efforts to protect and celebrate Michigan’s rich history through the Governor’s Awards for Historic Preservation,” said Ryan Schumaker, State Historic Preservation Officer. “This year’s seven awardees reflect a deep commitment to preserving places that matter, not just for their architectural significance, but for the stories they tell about the people and communities that shaped our state. These projects help ensure that Michigan’s history remains a source of pride, identity, and opportunity for generations to come.” 

Chapin Mansion

The City of Niles, Niles History Center and Mihm Enterprises were recognized for the Chapin Mansion Restoration.

Henry and Ruby Chapin built a highly decorative mansion in downtown Niles in 1884. The family later gifted the mansion to the city in 1932 to be used for civic purposes, and it became Niles’ City Hall. When city offices moved out in 2012, it was time for the mansion’s next chapter as part of the Niles History Center, the city’s municipally operated museum. Since 2012, more than $1.5 million has been invested into the repair and rehabilitation of the historic features of the mansion property from a combination of state, local, and private sources. The Chapin Mansion today hosts annual events, programming and school and adult tours showcasing regional history. 

“Niles has demonstrated a commitment to the mansion and gone above and beyond in its care, making it a true gem in southwest Michigan,” the State Historic Preservation Office stated in a news release.

Fort St. Joseph

Western Michigan University, the City of Niles, Niles History Center and Support the Fort, Inc. were recognized for the Fort St. Joseph Archaeology Project.

Fort Saint Joseph was established by the French in 1691 on the banks of the St. Joseph River. For nearly 100 years, it was a hub of colonial activity that brought together settlers, soldiers, fur trappers, and nearby Potawatomi and Miami settlements. After the United States claimed the territory in 1781, the fort was abandoned and eventually lost to time. Starting in 1998, a partnership between Western Michigan University and the local community rediscovered the fort’s location and helped inform the community about its past. 

“This long-term collaboration today teaches aspiring archaeologists the field techniques needed for their future careers and shares what is found here through community events and a dynamic social media presence,” the State Historic Preservation Office stated in a news release.