Ann Arbor is a city rich in history, blending its academic roots with a vibrant community that’s deeply connected to Michigan’s cultural heritage. For those who want to explore the stories that have shaped the city and the region, there are several museums that offer a window into the past. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Ann Arbor’s origins, these museums provide a great way to dive into the local history and understand the context of the city’s growth. Below are some of the best museums in Ann Arbor for learning about its unique past.
The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History
The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History is not just a science museum—it’s also a great place to learn about Michigan’s natural and cultural history. Located on the university’s campus, the museum showcases exhibits that explore the state’s geological history, indigenous cultures, and early settlers.
One of the highlights of the museum is its extensive collection of fossils, which provides insight into the prehistoric creatures that once roamed Michigan. This exhibit offers a fascinating look at the region’s natural history long before human settlement. The museum also features exhibits on Native American cultures, focusing on the Anishinaabe people who have lived in the Great Lakes region for centuries.
The Kempf House Museum
For a glimpse into Ann Arbor’s more recent past, the Kempf House Museum is an essential stop. Built in 1853, this beautifully preserved Greek Revival house offers a window into life in Ann Arbor during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was the home of the Kempf family, prominent members of Ann Arbor’s German-American community who were deeply involved in the city’s cultural life.
The house itself is a stunning example of period architecture, with its high ceilings, grand staircase, and intricate woodwork. Inside, visitors can explore rooms filled with antique furnishings and artifacts that reflect the lifestyle of a well-to-do family in the late 1800s. The museum also highlights the musical history of the Kempf family, who were talented musicians and hosted many prominent figures in their home.
The African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County
The African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing the stories of African Americans in the Ann Arbor area. The museum is dedicated to documenting the experiences of African Americans from the early days of settlement through the present day.
Through its exhibits and programs, the museum highlights the contributions of African Americans to the social, cultural, and economic life of Washtenaw County. Visitors can learn about the history of African American communities in the area, including the challenges they faced and their resilience in the face of discrimination. The museum also emphasizes the importance of education, with exhibits that explore the role of African American schools and educators in the region’s history.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
While not exclusively focused on Ann Arbor, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library is an important resource for anyone interested in both local and national history. Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the United States, was a University of Michigan graduate, and his presidential library is located on the university’s North Campus.
The library houses a vast collection of documents, photographs, and artifacts from Ford’s presidency, but it also provides insight into his early life in Michigan. Visitors can explore exhibits that cover Ford’s time as a student-athlete at the University of Michigan, his military service during World War II, and his political career in the U.S. House of Representatives before becoming President.
The Clements Library
For a deep dive into American history, with a particular focus on the early years of the United States, the Clements Library at the University of Michigan is a hidden gem. While not a traditional museum, the library’s extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and maps makes it an invaluable resource for learning about the history of Ann Arbor and Michigan, as well as broader American history.
The library was founded by William L. Clements in 1923 and has since become one of the most important research libraries in the country for the study of early American history. Its collections include documents related to the founding of the United States, the American Revolution, and the Civil War, among other periods.
The Kelsey Museum of Archaeology
While the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology may be best known for its collections of ancient artifacts, it also offers valuable insights into the early history of Michigan. The museum’s exhibits include materials from Native American archaeological sites in the Great Lakes region, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of the region’s earliest inhabitants.
In addition to its focus on ancient civilizations, the Kelsey Museum frequently hosts temporary exhibits that explore the history of Ann Arbor and its surrounding areas. These exhibits often connect the local history to larger global themes, showing how the city’s development has been influenced by historical events far beyond Michigan’s borders.
Museum on Main Street
Operated by the Washtenaw County Historical Society, the Museum on Main Street is a charming, small museum located in a historic house on Ann Arbor’s Main Street. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County, with rotating exhibits that cover a wide range of topics.
The museum’s exhibits often focus on specific aspects of local history, such as early businesses, schools, and transportation in the area. It also highlights the everyday lives of Ann Arbor’s residents through artifacts like old photographs, clothing, and household items. The Museum on Main Street is a great place to learn about the smaller, often overlooked details that make up the fabric of the city’s history.
The Bentley Historical Library
For those who want to dive deep into the history of Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan, the Bentley Historical Library is an essential resource. The library houses extensive archives related to the history of the university, as well as collections that document the history of the state of Michigan.
The Bentley Historical Library’s collections include photographs, diaries, letters, and other personal papers that provide a unique perspective on Ann Arbor’s past. Visitors can learn about the early days of the University of Michigan, as well as the social and political movements that have shaped the city over the years.
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
Though primarily geared toward children and families, the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum also offers plenty of opportunities for learning about the city’s history. The museum features interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the science, technology, and culture that have shaped Ann Arbor over the years.
The museum’s focus on hands-on learning makes it a fun and engaging way to explore local history. Whether you’re interested in the development of Ann Arbor’s industries or the technological innovations that have come out of the city, the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum provides a dynamic learning experience for all ages.
With a blend of historical exhibits and interactive displays, these museums are a great way to introduce younger visitors to the rich history of Ann Arbor while still offering something of interest to adults.
