Historical Groups

Historic District Commission

Established by ordinance § 82 historic preservation, article II. The duty of the historic district commission is to safeguard the heritage of Royal Oak by preserving historic districts in the city that reflect elements of the history, architecture, archaeology, and engineering.   They are also charge with fostering civic beauty and strengthening the local economy through the promotion of historic districts for education, pleasure and welfare of the citizens. Historically designated properties seeking to alter the exterior of structures within the historic districts are required to have the historic district review requests for alterations or additions.   The historic district commission consists of seven members whose residence is located within the city of Royal Oak. A majority of the members shall have a clearly demonstrated interest in or knowledge of historic preservation. Serving three-year terms the historic district commission meets when a review needs to take place for a historically designated property to make a change to the exterior of the buildings; and at a  minimum meet quarterly.   

Historic District Study Committee

Established by ordinance § 82 historic preservation, article I. In addition to the many of the same duties as the historic district commission to safeguard and promote the city's history, the historic district study committee is also responsible for researching proposed historic districts, assembling the research into a comprehensive report meeting criteria of the State Historic Of for the purpose of designating the property historic. There are seven members serving three-year terms and a majority of the members shall clearly demonstrate interest in historic preservation and ideally have knowledge of history, research techniques and resources, writing skills.  The historic district study committee meets the the third Thursday of each month at 7:00p.m. at Royal Oak City Hall.   

Historical Commission

The historical commission is a policy-making body, which advises the City Commission on matters relating to or advancing the historical interests of the City of Royal Oak. The seven members are appointed by the City Commission and serve three-year terms. At least one member should be a member of the Historic District Commission or Historic District Study Committee. The Commission usually meets the fourth Wednesday of each month from September to June.

Royal Oak Historical Society

The Royal Oak Historical Society is a volunteer, membership organization whose purpose is to encourage historical study and research, to collect and preserve historical materials, and to record the folklore connected with the City of Royal Oak and its vicinity.

It is never too late to be a part of history!