Property Description

This location is 25 miles north of Lansing, or 40 miles west of Flint, so it is easily accessible from both major metropolitan areas and airports (Capitol and Bishop, respectively). Built in 1872, this building used to be the First Congregational Church of Ovid. In 1949 it merged with another church in town and was only used for summer sessions. In 1979 it became a private residence. It is a registered Michigan and National historical location. The building sits prominently on Main Street, on a corner lot across from the post office and next door to the library. For 135 years the exterior was originally gray and white, but in 2005 it was painted in a tri-color style to reflect the Victorian Era in which it was built, and also in order to highlight the beautiful woodwork and craftsmanship. The five-story bell tower still has the original 1878 bell in it. A life-sized bronze angel statue was saved from New Orleans before hurricane Katrina hit and now sits inconspicuously in the front yard. The upstairs has been kept in tact to preserve the historic beauty of the building, including the original pews, fireplace, stained glass and pipe organ. The gas fireplace had the chimney rebuilt in 2005 so it is operational. All the lighting fixtures were replaced with beautiful chandeliers with energy efficient light bulbs. The lower level is the living quarters, with an absolutely breathtaking kitchen and dining area. Hardwood floors and granite counter tops and all new appliances; The kitchen has a pass-through opening to the dining room. Additionally, every room has new pad and carpeting, there is a new water heater and the main bathroom was been completely remodeled in 2005 with tiles, a new double-sink, and new bathtub. It is absolutely beautiful, truly the jewel of the town. The upstairs includes original c. 1930s stained glass windows, gas fireplace, original pews, original pipe organ (non-functional), all new chandeliers and a Tiffany stained glass acorn light as centerpiece over altar area give this building a very warm feeling/glow to it. The outside of the structure has a gothic look to it, and could be used in music videos, horror stories or even romantic stories. There are enough rooms in the basement to accommodate dressing rooms, storage, craft services, screening areas, offices, just about anything that a film crew and production company would need. A new 400 amp electrical service was added in 2008 (200 amps for upstairs and 200 for down stairs). This building HAS to be used in some sort of movie, commercial, or photo shoot. It is an historic location, and we are part of it's history, not the other way around. So many people have been in and have stories about it (once can assume that since it was built in 1872 that about 11 generations of people have stepped through it); any proceeds from it's use will be used to maintain it, provide repairs and upgrades, and otherwise help preserve it for future generations. Your patronage can help ensure that happens! Finally, the owner lives in Hollywood, CA and can be easily reached there in person, by phone or by email to make any arrangements. He also works in the music industry, has friends who are movie, sitcom and Broadway stars, so the 'star' factor that might "wow" owners of other locations is not a factor when choosing this site. He understands the industry and keeps it strictly on a business level. There is also a person in Ovid who takes care of the building while the owner is away who can be available for showings. Thank you for taking the time to review this site, we (myself, the church, and the future generations of people who will step within it's walls) really do appreciate it. -- The Owner