Historical Society Receives Transformational Gift, Securing Long-Term Sustainability

The Harbor Springs Area Historical Society is honored to announce a $1 million gift from the late Virginia "Jinny" Buchanan McCoy, a lifelong Harbor Springs resident, philanthropist, and dedicated supporter of local history. This generous contribution has established the Virginia McCoy Legacy Fund, launching the Society’s endowment and marking a pivotal step toward ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

A Lifelong Commitment to Harbor Springs History

Jinny’s connection to Harbor Springs began at the age of four, when her parents purchased a home in Wequetonsing. That same home remained her cherished summer residence for 75 years. Her brother, John B. McCoy, reflected on how much Harbor Springs meant to her:

"Jinny’s family and friendships made Harbor Springs the happiest place in her life. She felt a deep sense of belonging here and gave back to the community in countless ways. She loved everything about Harbor Springs."

Jinny’s dedication to the Historical Society began shortly after its founding in 1990, when she donated historical artifacts. Over the years, she deepened her involvement, serving on the fundraising committee for the 2008 campaign, A Museum Grows in Harbor Springs, which restored the former City Hall and transformed it into the Harbor Springs History Museum.

Most recently, she contributed to the Bringing History to Life campaign, launched in 2018 and culminating this year. Her support helped expand the Society beyond a single museum, establishing the Harbor Springs Historical Corridor. This corridor now includes the Harbor Springs History Museum, the Andrew J. Blackbird Museum, the Ephraim Shay Works Museum (opening May 2025), and the Aha and Shay Locomotive in Shay Park (arriving May 2025).

Growth Creates New Opportunities and Challenges

The establishment of the Historical Corridor has quadrupled the Society’s footprint and deepened its role in the community. However, this growth has also significantly increased operational costs. Managing three museums and preserving multiple historic sites requires expanded staffing, programming, and maintenance.

In 2018, the Society hosted 14 public programs; by 2024, that number had grown to over 60, reflecting the organization's expanded mission to engage visitors and safeguard Harbor Springs’ rich history.

Investing in the Future: The Role of an Endowment

Endowments provide a stable financial foundation for nonprofit organizations. Funds are invested, with a portion of returns used annually to cover key expenses, while the remainder is reinvested to support long-term growth.

For the Historical Society, a well-managed endowment is vital to preserving the landmarks, artifacts, and stories that define our community. Maintaining 19th-century buildings—which require specialized restoration techniques—presents rising costs. These structures are not only historical landmarks but also serve as educational spaces, connecting past and present generations.

Jinny McCoy’s remarkable $1 million gift represents a transformational investment in the Society’s future. As the organization has expanded from one museum to three, taken on new preservation responsibilities, and broadened its programming, the need for sustainable funding has become more urgent.

To ensure long-term viability, the Society aims to build a $5 million endowment. Industry standards suggest that such an endowment could generate an annual return of 4-5%, providing $200,000 to $250,000 each year—funding that would support preservation, staffing, and educational programs for future generations.

"Jinny McCoy’s generosity gives us an incredible foundation," said Kristyn Balog, Executive Director. "With continued community support and sound financial stewardship, we are aiming to reach our $5 million goal by our 40th anniversary in 2030. We are deeply grateful to Jinny, who recognized our mission and entrusted us with her legacy."

Jinny’s Enduring Impact

Thanks to Jinny McCoy’s extraordinary generosity, the Historical Society is poised for a bright and sustainable future. Her gift is an essential step toward ensuring that Harbor Springs’ history will always have a home.

This year, as the Historical Society celebrates its 35th anniversary, Jinny’s impact is felt in every milestone. In life, her unwavering support guided the Society’s growth—and through her legacy, she has secured its future.

The grand opening of the Ephraim Shay Works Museum during Shay Days on July 25–26, and the arrival of the restored Shay Locomotive in May, mark the next exciting chapter in the Historical Corridor’s story. These achievements, and the continued success of the Historical Society, are a testament to the generosity of community members like Jinny McCoy, whose legacy will inspire and sustain for generations to come.