Join us for a weekend of special programs and events marking fifty years since the loss of the Edmund Fitzgerald, the most legendary shipwreck on the Great Lakes.
Friday, November 7 – Book Talk
Commemorative activities begin at 11:00 a.m. with a presentation by author Thomas Nelson on his new book WRECKED: The Edmund Fitzgerald and the Sinking of the American Economy.
Book talk information and tickets
Saturday, November 8 – Special Tours & Activities
Drop-in tours of the Edmund Fitzgerald exhibition with curators and docents
Great Lakes Maritime Institute information and merchandise tables
Annual Edmund Fitzgerald radio broadcast by the Livonia Amateur Radio Club in DeRoy Hall
Debut of a new pop-up exhibition by Wayne State University Professor of Humanities Victoria Stewart
Family-friendly crafts and activities throughout the museum
Sunday, November 9 – Maritime Brunch & More
The day begins at 11:00 a.m. with the museum’s first-ever Maritime Brunch [SOLD OUT], featuring a historically accurate, chef-prepared meal based on the Edmund Fitzgerald’s galley menu. The meal will be accompanied by a video presentation by Ship-to-Shore Chef Catherine Schmuck, The centerpiece of the brunch is the premiere of a new film produced by the Detroit Historical Society, featuring Curator Emeritus Joel Stone in conversation with experts from across the Great Lakes.
At 1:00 p.m., the museum opens for regular admission with continued access to Professor Stewart’s pop-up exhibition, the Great Lakes Maritime Institute tables, family activities, and two Edmund Fitzgerald-related films looping in DeRoy Hall.
Monday, November 10 – Lost Mariners Remembrance
SOLD OUT The weekend concludes with the 26th Annual Lost Mariners Remembrance from 6:00–8:00 p.m. This moving tribute honors all sailors lost on the Great Lakes and will mark the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald, the last major maritime disaster on the lakes.
Watch the livestream on our Facebook page.