Welcome to the Bartlett-Travis House, a remarkable piece of Canton, Michigan’s rich history. This house, which now serves as a museum, provides a window into the past, showcasing the architectural evolution and historical narratives that shaped this community.
The Bartlett-Travis House was originally constructed in the 1840s as a simple Greek Revival cottage by Thomas and Maria Bartlett. Located at the corner of Warren and Canton Center Roads, it was here that the Bartlett family raised their eight children. The early years of the house were marked by significant national events, including the American Civil War. In 1861, the call to arms saw two Bartlett sons, John and James, join the Michigan infantry. James, unfortunately, lost his life to wounds sustained during the Battle of the Wilderness, one of the war’s bloodiest confrontations.
Following the war, the house underwent significant transformations. In 1867, George Bartlett bought the family home and modernized it, raising it to a full two stories and adding Italianate details, including paired brackets under the eaves and an ornate front porch. This transformation mirrored the broader Victorian trend sweeping through America, reflecting a desire for grandeur and sophistication.
In 1908, the house changed hands when William and Martha Travis purchased it. The Travis family introduced further modifications by adding a Colonial Revival wrap-around porch, which was completed around 1919. These changes marked the house’s transition into a more modern era, aligning with the architectural trends of the early 20th century.
The house remained in private hands until the 1950s, after which it changed ownership several times. In 1988, local realtor Ken Dividock donated the house to the Canton Historic District Commission, spearheading efforts to preserve its legacy. The house was relocated and restoration began in earnest in 1994, led by local carpenter Rex Harvey. By 2002, the Bartlett-Travis House was fully restored and opened to the public as a museum.
Today, the Bartlett-Travis House stands as an educational resource, allowing visitors to explore the rich tapestry of Canton’s history, from its agricultural roots to its modern-day significance.
