The Detroit Historical Society has long served as a cornerstone in preserving and celebrating the rich history of the Detroit region.
Since its establishment in 1921, the Society has been committed to preserving the region’s history, helping metro Detroiters gain a deeper understanding of the people, places, and events that have shaped their community.
In 1928, the Society founded the Detroit Historical Museum, managing the museum and conserving artifacts for the next two decades. In 1945, ownership of the museum and its collections was transferred to the City of Detroit, shifting the Society’s focus to fundraising and promotional efforts for both the Detroit Historical Museum and, later, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum.
Over the next 50 years, the Society raised funds, recruited volunteers, and supported the continued success of the Detroit Historical Museum, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and Historic Fort Wayne, which became a city-operated historical site in the 1970s.
In 2006, the Society entered a new agreement with the City of Detroit, resuming management of the Detroit Historical Museum, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and the extensive collection of over 250,000 artifacts. The City’s Recreation Department took on the management of Historic Fort Wayne’s re-enactments, special events, and outdoor programming.
Since then, the Board of Trustees and staff have remained dedicated to excellence across all aspects of the organization’s work.
