Social rights advocate. Political appointee. Philanthropist. These are not labels typically associated with women in the early to middle half of the 20^th century, yet Matilda Dodge Wilson was all these things and more. 

Paying tribute to Wilson’s forward-thinking, trend-setting legacy and highlighting the many modern aspects of the home she built, Meadow Brook Hall is launching its Thoroughly Modern Tillie Tour. The new tour also kicks off Meadow Brook Hall’s yearlong schedule of events designed to celebrate the hall’s 75^th anniversary.

“Tillie,” as Matilda was called by her friends, supervised every minute detail of Meadow Brook Hall’s construction and maintenance. She chose the materials used to build the hall and was involved in the design of every last closet and bathroom. Many of the modern amenities in the 100-room home, built between 1926 and 1929 for the sum of $4 million, are not traditionally found even in today’s contemporary mansions. From the in-house telephone operator to the electric elevator, visitors will be amazed to hear of the novelties the 88,000-square-foot home had to offer.  

The Thoroughly Modern Tillie Tour focuses on the innovative conveniences and modern facilities of Meadow Brook Hall, while also bringing to the forefront the many accomplishments of the woman who commissioned this historic mansion.

“Matilda Dodge Wilson was a very modern woman, from the activities in which she was involved to the ideals she held,” said Sally Victor, executive director of Meadow Brook Hall. “Without her vision, Meadow Brook Hall would not have existed today. We are extremely pleased to be able to further introduce Matilda to our guests, to give them new insights into her pioneering spirit and the cultural legacy she left behind.”

The Thoroughly Modern Tillie Tour is offered daily, Monday through Friday, at 1:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Tours are $15 for adults, $10.50 for seniors, $8.50 for children ages 5 to 12, and children under 5 are free.

For more information, visit the Meadow Brook Hall Web site or call (248) 370-3140.