In this episode of the Life In Michigan Podcast, we’re joined by Barry LaRue—a lifelong Ypsilanti resident, community historian, and retired University of Michigan Performance Hall Operations Manager. Barry’s deep love for history, preservation, and the arts has shaped the fabric of Ypsilanti in ways most people don’t even realize.
We met up with Barry earlier this past July while exploring Starkweather Chapel at Highland Cemetery. His passion for sharing local history inspired our recap article “Exploring Starkweather Chapel and the Woman Who Built It”. In this interview, Barry takes us beyond the chapel to share the stories of his decades-long work restoring local landmarks, managing U-M’s performance halls, and founding the Riverside Arts Center.
Highlights from our conversation:
* How a childhood fascination with gravestones led to decades of historic preservation
* The unique history and restoration of Starkweather Memorial Chapel
* Barry’s 41-year career at U-M, managing venues like Hill Auditorium and the Arthur Miller Theatre
* Founding the Riverside Arts Center and repurposing historic buildings for community arts
* Ypsilanti’s architectural treasures, local solar energy efforts, and why cemeteries can be parks tooWhy a perfect Michigan day includes Picker Lake, birdsong, and a Nicie Spicie from Short’s Brewing
Barry’s dedication to his hometown is a reminder that history isn’t just found in books—it’s all around us, waiting to be preserved, restored, and celebrated.
If you’d like to help ensure Starkweather Chapel remains a vibrant part of Ypsilanti’s story, consider donating to the Highland Cemetery Association’s Chapel Fund. Every contribution helps preserve the past for future generations. You can also support the Riverside Arts Center—your generosity keeps this vital community space thriving.
