Dobies honored with 2024 Community Impact Award by area Historical Society

The Jackson County Michigan Historical Society hosted its 4th Annual County History Banquet in the Ralph Carey Forum at Spring Arbor University on December 5th, 2024. Honorees were Lloyd Ganton with the Lifetime Achievement Award, Derek Dobies, Carnegie Building, Jackson District Library and Scholarship winner Nolan Metheringham.

I’m deeply grateful to the Jackson County Michigan Historical Society for recognizing my efforts with the 2024 Community Impact Award. Supporting local historical projects and organizations has always been a priority for me — preserving our shared history connects us to our roots and strengthens our community.

From advocating for the restoration of historic structures to promoting landmarks and educational programs that bring our rich history to life — I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together. I’m looking forward to continuing this work to celebrate and protect the stories that make Jackson special.

— — Derek Dobies

The Jackson County Michigan Historical Society was founded in 2020 as a not-for-profit, private educational organization dedicated to perpetuating Jackson County’s history. The Society’s mission:​

  • To foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for Jackson County’s history, including the story of Native Americans present before European fur traders and American settlers arrived.

  • To stimulate and encourage the preservation and interpretation of Jackson County history through conferences, publications, awards, educational programs, consulting services, and related historical activities

  • To coordinate and further the programs of the county’s other local historical societies, museums and local historians by functioning as a service organization, and a collaboration & communication network

  • To cooperate with appropriate individuals, organizations, and institutions on the local, state, or national levels in projects and activities that will promote and sustain a general interest in history.

Photos by Bart Hawley, JTV.

Derek Dobies