A Century of Community: Celebrating 100 Years of the Benzonia Library & Mills Community House

This June, the Benzonia Public Library and Mills Community House marked an incredible milestone—100 years of serving the community! For a century, these two institutions have been at the heart of Benzonia, Michigan, providing not just books and resources, but a true sense of connection and belonging.

To celebrate, they hosted a charming old-fashioned strawberry social —complete with fresh strawberry shortcake, crafting for families and plenty of stories shared among friends and neighbors. It was the kind of event that made you feel like you’d stepped back in time in the best possible way.

I had the pleasure of photographing the celebration and capturing the joy, warmth, and community spirit that filled the day. From kids with sticky fingers to longtime residents reminiscing on a hot summer day on the porch, it was a beautiful reminder of what makes this place so special.

Here’s to another 100 years of community, conversation, and connection at the Benzonia Library and Mills Community House!