The Burnham Historical Building, an Italianate-style mansion built during the Civil War, stands as a testament to Adrian’s past. Originally constructed for prominent merchant George Bidwell, it occupied a prime location on Broad Street, within easy walking distance of the city center.
In 1877, Bidwell sold the property to banker William H. Waldby for a substantial sum of $18,000. Years later, it was acquired by W. H. Burnham, president of the then-dominant Lamb Fence Company. However, the advent of the automobile era shifted the preferences of Adrian’s affluent residents towards suburban living. Facing the threat of demolition in 1957, the building was repurposed as the offices of the Adrian Public Schools, ensuring its preservation. Today, it continues to serve as an office building.
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