At a tribute to the life of William Clay Ford on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at a private family event, the Michigan Historical Commission will recognize Ford's lifetime contribution to preserving the nation's history by posthumously presenting him with its first William G. Milliken/Elizabeth S. Adams/Frank J. Kelley Award.

In 2013, commemorating the centennial of the Michigan Historical Commission and looking ahead to the next century, the commission sought to inspire others by launching a signature award for lengthy, visionary public service to the cause of Michigan history. The Milliken/Adams/Kelley Award is named for three public servants longest serving in their capacities, who exhibited grace, devotion and determination. William G. Milliken was Michigan's longest-serving governor; Elizabeth S. Adams served nine terms on the Michigan Historical Commission and Frank J. Kelley was the state's longest-serving attorney general.

Gov. Rick Snyder will present the award to Mrs. William Clay Ford and the Ford family.

John M. Dempsey, president of the Michigan Historical Commission, said, "The commission unanimously bestowed the William G. Milliken/Elizabeth S. Adams/Frank J. Kelley Award to Mr. Ford as a result of his indefatigable volunteer service and extraordinary financial support to preserving Michigan and American history."

Ford was the longest-serving chairman of the board of The Henry Ford. As the largest donor in the history of the institution, his generosity helped restore Greenfield Village and build new visitor experiences in Henry Ford Museum. Through his vision and leadership, the institution made its transformative evolution to the premier American history destination that it is today. Ford recognized the national significance of The Henry Ford and its unparalleled collections and educational importance, and he was committed throughout his life to the ongoing health and vitality of the institution he revered.

Every year, people from around the state and the world come to The Henry Ford to learn, experience and enjoy America's extraordinarily diverse heritage. They could not do so absent Mr. Ford's dedication.

William G. Milliken, Jr., representing Gov. Milliken, and Frank J. Kelley also will be present at the tribute.

Appointed by the governor and legislative leadership, the Michigan Historical Commission has played a role in preserving and sharing Michigan's History since 1913. It advises the Michigan Department of Natural Resources on Michigan history and the work of the Michigan Historical Center. Learn more at www.michigan.gov/mhcommission.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Contact: Joan Frear Capuano, 313-801-1971