Chelsea Rod & Gun Club.
 The Chelsea Rod & Gun Club was founded in 1936 and the first
president of the organization was Harvey Murphy (now deceased). The club
was incorporated as a 501-C-3 organization in 2003 for the purposes of:
a) To participate, and inform others, in the protection of natural resources
including air, surface waters, aquifers, soil, minerals, plant life, wild
and domestic animals, and other living creatures. b) To develop transferable
skills in the sportsmanlike, legal harvesting of surplus game animals,
game birds and game fish while sharing in the protection of endangered
species. c) To maintain an ongoing program of instruction to all
age-qualified persons in the safe, responsible management of firearms,
outdoors and at home, with the help of club instructors certified by the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources. d) To provide a special
encouragement to youth for the safe enjoyment of the outdoors, and ongoing
concern for the protection of natural resources.
Beginning modestly in 1936 the club has purchased its original property
of 61 acres on Lingane Road and forestation of the club grounds, which
was a pasture, was started and is now largely complete. Trees continue
to be planted over much of the property to improve habitat and improve
its scenic splendor.
The original clubhouse has been added to on two occasions with a south
addition in 1967 and in 1991 walls were added to complete the patio room,
which is now the east or bar room. The patio having been constructed in
1987. The original clubhouse building effort was financed with 20-tear
bonds sold to club members and all the bonds were paid off in two years
after they were issued.
In 1965 a monument dedicated to our deceased members was erected and
can be seen through the pine trees on the hill just east of the clubhouse.
The club’s members have always been active and enjoy the many and various
activities throughout the year. In recent years, many new programs have
developed for members and the public as the club continues to grow and
extend our community and civic responsibilities. All of these projects
are planned, designed, and carried out by the membership.
In 2000, club member Walter Zeeb generously donated 12.86 acres to
the club. This property adjoins the original 61 acres to the south and
along Lingane Road. Our property now totals 73.86 acres.
"Pineview" is our clubhouse and grounds that all members can be proud
of and enjoy year round. Clubhouse amenities include a full kitchen, bathrooms, and
a fireplace. The property includes a picnic area, two trap ranges, rifle
and pistol ranges, archery practice targets and 3-D walk-through ranges,
as well as nature trails located throughout the property.
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