Glamorous Night

A fundraiser in support of the Grosse Pointe Historical Society

Tucked away on a secluded cul-de-sac is one of the most architecturally-significant mansions of the Pointes. Built as a “springtime residence” for Louise Webber of the Hudson’s Department Store family, the house originally sat on ten wooded and landscaped acres of spring plantings. She and her husband, John “Cap” O’Brien spent the rest of the year at homes in Palm Beach and Bar Harbor.

It has been lovingly restored and re-invented as a 21st-century home for a family with perfect furnishings and fittings, offering inspiration for contemporary living in an historic setting. Designed by East Coast architect, Duncan Candler, the house is rich with hand-carved panelling, Pewabic tiles, restored original kitchen details and more. Another of his designs was Skyland Estate in Maine for the Edsel Ford family, now owned by Martha Stewart.

On Friday, June 13, 2025, the Grosse Pointe Historical Society will hold its 21st annual Summer Fundraiser Gala. This year’s event, Glamorous Night, will be held at an historic mansion built for the ages. In the tradition of great Grosse Pointe homes, it features intricate plaster and woodworking not seen in today’s homes. Taking three years to complete, a labor of love, great attention was paid to honor the home’s history and character.

This year, the Grosse Pointe Historical Society gala fundraiser will be catered by 405 Hospitality Group. The culinary masterminds include next-generation Grosse Pointe natives, who will bring a fresh perspective to classic entertainment in the elegant home.

The event includes valet parking, open bars, music, classic “Hudson” cars on display, and a strolling supper. There will be a special preview reception for Sponsors, and an optional Speakeasy Afterglow following the main event.

For sponsorship opportunities and recognition information, visit or contact:

Patti Timmins, Director of Development
[email protected] • 313-884-7010

The Grosse Pointe Historical Society (GPHS) was founded in 1945 to preserve and protect the rich local heritage of all five Grosse Pointes and neighboring communities, and share it with the public. GPHS works to make history of our area vital, relevant, and accessible. Through programs, facilities and events, GPHS brings history to life, protects historic artifacts, and collects and shares Grosse Pointe-area stories.

The Grosse Pointe Historical Society Campus includes the

c. 1823 Provencal-Weir restored ribbon farm house, the c. 1840 Log Cabin, and the Grosse Pointe History Center, which houses exhibition and activities spaces, administrative offices and the Alfred B. and Ruth S. Moran Resource Center.

GPHS collections include maps, blueprints, documents, bills, contracts, letters, books, catalogs, photographs, videos, prints, drawings watercolors, scrapbooks, oral histories, albums, real estate records and additional ephemera relating to the history of the Grosse Pointes and neighboring communities as well as objects, tools, household goods and furniture.

Host or Publisher Grosse Pointe Historical Society