Are you hungry for history?

“Feeding the Family” is the 2023 theme for the “Spring Into the Past” annual tour of about 30 small-town museums and historical societies that are members of the Tri-River Historical Museum Network. (This annual event held the first weekend of May received the 2021 Historical Society of Michigan State Award for Special Events/Programs.)

This year’s tour is Saturday, May 6 from 11 am to 5 pm and Sunday, May 7 from 1 to 4 pm. Most members will be open the same days and hours during this special weekend, so folks can map out a tour of nearby museums to visit on the same day.   

A booklet of information is available at any member museum, or one can be downloaded at commoncorners.com. It has a handy map to plot your tour ahead of time. Other information is available at tririvermuseums.com .  

You’ll be amazed at the variety of displays on the theme – from growing food on the farm – to hunting and fishing – to selling in a store – to cooking, preserving, serving food and many other creative ideas.  

At the Red Mill in Portland special display(s) about Valley City Milling will be featured.  

Tri-River members are located in Barry, Eaton, Ionia, Kent and Montcalm counties and have joined together to share ideas and encourage one another in their history gathering. All museums will be free during this annual tour, but donations are appreciated and are often the only income they receive.   

Come and “feed your family” the history you remember or have heard about. It will give you all something to talk about for a long time! See you at the museums!  

The Portland Area Historical Society invites you to join us for Spring Into the Past, a regional celebration of local history, craftsmanship, and community heritage.

This year's event will be held inside the historic Red Mill, where visitors can explore special displays, learn about Portland's past, and connect with volunteers who help preserve our community's stories.  As part of the Tri-River Museum Network, weekend guests are encouraged to visit multiple participating sites throughout the region.

Dates:  Saturday MAY 2 AND SUNDAY MAY 3

Time:  Saturday 11-5 and Sunday 1-4

Admission:  Free (donations appreciated)

Location:  The Red Mill on Water Street, Portland

Come discover the people, places and traditions that shaped Portland-and enjoy.

Tri River Historical Museum Network - 

We connect 30+ museums across Barry, Eaton, Ionia, Kent, and Montcalm counties, celebrating the rich history of Michigan’s Grand, Flat, and Thornapple River communities.

30 Museums. 3 Rivers. 1 Shared History - Directory

The Portland Area Historical Society invites you to join us for Spring Into the Past, a regional celebration of local history, craftsmanship, and community heritage.

This year's event will be held inside the historic Red Mill, where visitors can explore special displays, learn about Portland's past, and connect with volunteers who help preserve our community's stories.  As part of the Tri-River Museum Network, weekend guests are encouraged to visit multiple participating sites throughout the region.

Dates:  Saturday MAY 2 AND SUNDAY MAY 3

Time:  Saturday 11-5 and Sunday 1-4

Admission:  Free (donations appreciated)

Location:  The Red Mill on Water Street, Portland

Come discover the people, places and traditions that shaped Portland-and enjoy.

Tri River Historical Museum Network - 

We connect 30+ museums across Barry, Eaton, Ionia, Kent, and Montcalm counties, celebrating the rich history of Michigan’s Grand, Flat, and Thornapple River communities.

30 Museums. 3 Rivers. 1 Shared History - Directory

Geranium Pickup date is May 9th, Noon - 6pm

• Annuals & Perennials
• Heirloom Vegetable Plants
• Herb Starts
• Hanging Baskets
• Potted Plants
• Bird Feeders
• Soaps & Oils
• Yard Art
• Candles & Crafts
• Baked Goods & Honey
• Lawn & Garden Equipment
• Lawn & Garden Services

​POSITIVELY MI PORTLAND

The Big Picture

A vibrant downtown is more than buildings and events—it’s the sense of connection, pride, and possibility we create together. By focusing on consistency, revitalization, and collaboration, we can continue building a downtown that reflects the energy and creativity of our entire community.

Friday,  9am-7pm and
Saturday,  9am-2pm

Stay informed and updated at Portland Community Garage Sales Page

SELLERS:  REGISTRATION (link)  and payment are due by FRIDAY MAY 10th by 5:00pm, no exceptions.

Friday, May 19th 9am-7pm and Saturday, May 20th 9am-2pm

Stay informed and updated at Portland Community Garage Sales Page

SELLERS:  REGISTRATION (link)  and payment are due by FRIDAY MAY 12th by 5:00pm, no exceptions.

Friday,  9am-7pm and
Saturday,  9am-2pm

Stay informed and updated at Portland Community Garage Sales Page

SELLERS:  REGISTRATION (link)  and payment are due by FRIDAY MAY 10th by 5:00pm, no exceptions.