The Henry Ford Estate Dinner

Just a short drive from Detroit is the former residence of Henry and Clara Ford. Now owned by the University of Michigan the Estate holds an annual fundraising gala each spring at the Dearborn Ritz Carlton. Edsel and his beautiful wife Cynthia have been hosting the dinner for 21 years and I have been lucky enough to attend the last 6 dinners.




Cynthia says it has become a family reunion of sorts and we all look forward to the appearance of Henry Ford I, who shows up annually with one of his friends to give us a look at the personal moments in his life. The actor who portrays Henry has won our hearts. This year his guest was George Washington Carver. Did you know that Henry and George were trying to find an alternative to gas made from soy beans? Continuing research has led to a new foam made from soy that went into the manufacturing of the Mustang seats in 2008 and is now used in other Ford Cars.
After dinner The Teen Angels took to the stage and the guests took to the dance floor. When I commented to Edsel that there was hardly a person seated he explained that people born in Michigan inherit the motown gene. Well guys, party on! And trust me, they did.


PS In keeping with Earthday in mind the center pieces were living grass studded with cut tulips. I loved the simple elegance and splash of color that they brought to the room.

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