The John C. Blanchard Family

The handwritten marriage license of John C. Blanchard and Harriet Brewster (a lineal descendant of Elisha Brewster of The Mayflower) is dated October 6, 1845. His age is given as 23, hers as 19. It was the beginning of an abundant life together.

John became a prosperous attorney, later Ionia County Prosecuting Attorney for five years. Prior to the organization of the city, he served for two terms as a member of the Ionia Village Board, followed by his candidacy for Lt. Governor on the Democratic ticket in 1872.

Together they raised four children, contributed to many local charitable causes, and became the owners of 1,000 acres of Bois Blanc Island, complete with a steamboat for the "accommodation of family and friends."

Ionia was enriched by this strong couple during their lifetimes, and for their retirement in their fifties they built this marvelous home. This both enables us to know them better and provides a window to life on our Main Street as it was in the late 19th century.