Located in Detroit's Cultural Center, on Woodward Avenue, the Detroit Historical Museum has been chronicling the life and times of the region over the past 75 years. Founded on the 19th of November 1928, when the "Highest Museum in the world" was built in a one-room suite on the 23rd floor of the Barlum Tower, the museum has played a key role in the preservation of the city's history ever since.
The museum houses over 200,000 artifacts, each of which represents a key point in the 300 year old history of the region. The exhibits are arranged in numerous collections which range from the history of Native Americans to the origin of fur trade in the region and branch out into collections as diverse as the history of the Military and the development of sport in Detroit. The museum also runs film series which depict the ups and downs in the history of Detroit, leaving no avenue untouched. Of these, 'Stranded at the Corner' is a winner of three Telly Awards and 11 Emmy nominations. This film talks about the story behind baseball's oldest playing field and the political maneuvering which eventually led to its neglect and abandonment. You can also participate in various activities that are conducted by the Detroit Historical society such as 'A Taste of the D' which is a beer-tasting festival and Annual flea market where you can shop for antiques, arts and crafts and other collectables. Proceeds from all these fundraisers are directed towards the Historical Society. The museum also organizes 'Story-living' sessions for young children where they are introduced to important historical moments in Detroit's history by way of role-playing, songs, group pantomime and creative problem solving.
In you visit in a group of 10 or more, you can even call ahead and arrange for a guided tour of the museum. The museum gift shop stores a wide variety of merchandise which include posters, books and other collectibles. The Detroit Historical Museum also lets out locations for you to host private parties and gatherings. For further information and a virtual tour of the museum, you can refer to their website www.detroithistorical.org . Museum hours are from 9.30 am to 3 pm from Wednesdays through Fridays, 10 am to 5 pm on Saturdays and noon to 5 pm on Sundays. You can avail of the valet parking services which are priced at $3 per car.
Detroit Historical Museum
5401 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, Michigan 48202
Telephone: 313.833.1805
