Founded in 1976, the Plymouth Historical Museum guides visitors through a walk down Plymouth's memory lane, where they can learn about the growth of industries and how the invention of automobiles has shaped the course of history in Plymouth, Michigan.<
The museum which is spread over 2,600 square feet of exhibit area, houses an array of informative exhibits, which includes the impressive "Plymouth Rides the Rails" exhibit. Here, visitors can explore the history of trains in Plymouth, dating back to 1871, through the extensive collection of train models which have been loaned to the museum by local collectors. The permanent exhibits range from The Weldon Petz Abraham Lincoln Collection, which includes artifacts from Lincoln's youth, a rare book which belonged to Lincoln when he was a boy, and even locks of Lincoln's hair, to the "A timeline of Plymouth" exhibit which features their famous collection of rifles and local businesses like Daly's Drive-in restaurant and the only known Alter car in the country.
The museum is also devoted to inculcating awareness and awakening curiosity in young minds through a host of interactive educational programs. Children can learn how ancient toys were made and used in the 'Toys and Games of long ago' workshop and also explore the history of Native Americans and the first citizens in Plymouth in the program aptly titled 'Native Americans of Michigan'. You can even enroll on one of their well-known walking tours which will take you through the Riverside cemetery, Plymouth's first cemetery, to learn about the extraordinary lives of the people buried here.
The museum, which is housed in a beautiful building , which was donated to the Plymouth Historical Society by Miss Margaret Dunning, also features a gift shop where you can purchase memorabilia like Lincoln and Civil War artifacts, jewelry boxes, cards and bags and can even put together your own "History Gift Basket"!
Open from 1 pm to 4 pm on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the museum is a great place to spend an afternoon, exploring the legendary and diverse past of Plymouth. For further information, you can refer to their website http://www.plymouthhistory.org or call 734-455-8940.
The Plymouth Historical Museum
155 South Main Street
Plymouth, Michigan 48170-1635
