The city of Southfield is currently completing a restoration project of the Mary Thompson Farmhouse located at 25630 Evergreen Road to preserve and protect this historic property.

The Mary Thompson farmhouse, built in 1840 and purchased by the Thompson family in 1874, was the home of Mary Thompson, a Southfield teacher and community advocate. In 1958, Mary along with her brother James sold 166 acres of their property, at one half its value, to the City for use as a Civic Center. Before she passed away in 1967, she willed $100,00 in cash to the City, from which only the interest can be used to maintain her home. The farmhouse, as well as the farm, remains as a tribute to her community and family, and is currently maintained as a community museum.

In October 2020, the City posted bids for the restoration project and awarded BTS Construction of Shelby Township, Michigan the contract to repair the Mary Thompson farmhouse at a total cost of $38,482.50. This project includes, but is not limited to, exterior wall coverings, gutter system removal and installation of HardiePlank® refinished lap siding.

The current project is just one of many restoration and renovation projects the City has accomplished through the years in maintaining the home, as well as the farm, to its original and historic state. Many of these projects include structural repairs to the walls and roof, an ADA accessible ramp addition, a central heating system installation, as well as a new barn with ADA compliant restrooms and storage for the Southfield Community Garden program for local seniors.

No tax dollars are being used to preserve the farmhouse and farm. All funding for the Mary Thompson farmhouse renovation project is provided by donations to the Mary Thompson Trust.