Sometime in 1832, brothers Abraham and Isaac Perrin, formerly of Monroe County, New York, bought land in Sections 2 and 3 of Nankin Township (now a portion of Garden City, Michigan). They built a dam and sawmill on the Middle Rouge River, one block east of current-day Merriman Road. The cabinet shop, wagon works, blacksmith, store, post office, and sundry houses followed. This became the beginning of a small community called “Perrinsville”.
Two years later, in 1834, John and William Lathers of County Cavan, Ireland, settled near the corner of Ford and Inkster Roads, both then only small paths in a dense forest. The Lathers brothers along with other County Cavan people, established an Irish Settlement called “East Nankin”. Between the years 1866 and 1870, John’s son, Thomas R. Lathers, kept a country store in Perrinsville. Entered into his account books are about 180 names. Oscar Straight is among the names in the account book. The original book is in the Westland Historical Museum. The General Store displays items typical of the 1800’s. The visitor can just imagine how simple shopping would have been.
We have completed the installation of our post office, including period mailboxes and beautiful oak woodwork. See the process...
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Our Lathers General Store has established a gift shop, boutique, and resale shop with items of interest to visitors. Hours: Wednesdays & Saturdays from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m. |
Items for sale include:
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make a lasting gift | |
Toys by Schylling |
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specialty toys and gifts |
The Boutique |
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resale items |
