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- Detroit Historical Society
Detroit Historical Society
Since the founding of the Detroit Historical Society over 100 years ago, our work over the decades has always been to tell Detroit’s stories and why they matter. Detroit and its surrounding suburbs are extraordinarily rich in history, from the notorious to the inspirational. The spirit of Detroit and its people, the stories that have risen out of our collective triumph and tragedy, have long been on the radar of people from around the world.
Our vision is to be an integral part of Detroit's present and future by providing meaningful experiences that preserve and share its past, prompting people to consider what is happening in the world today, and what they can do to help shape a more promising future.
Our vision is to be an integral part of Detroit's present and future by providing meaningful experiences that preserve and share its past, prompting people to consider what is happening in the world today, and what they can do to help shape a more promising future.
Purpose
At the Detroit Historical Society, we are privileged to be the keepers of our city’s stories and heritage. As the stewards of Detroit’s history and our work to share the city’s past, present and future has never been more important than it is today, when we strive to envision a new Detroit Historical Society for the next 100 years.
We endeavor to continue to do this through welcoming visitors – both local and from around the world- into our two exceptional museums – the Detroit Historical Museum in Midtown and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle. In addition, the Society is responsible for the conservation and preservation of more than 250,000 artifacts that represent three centuries of our region’s rich history. Through our museum exhibits, school tour programs, community-based programs and history-themed outreach efforts, the Society serves more than 150,000 people annually.
We endeavor to continue to do this through welcoming visitors – both local and from around the world- into our two exceptional museums – the Detroit Historical Museum in Midtown and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle. In addition, the Society is responsible for the conservation and preservation of more than 250,000 artifacts that represent three centuries of our region’s rich history. Through our museum exhibits, school tour programs, community-based programs and history-themed outreach efforts, the Society serves more than 150,000 people annually.
Mission
Our mission is to tell Detroit's stories and why they matter.
Additional Culture Details
We believe that every pilgrimage to the city of Detroit – whether it be a visit from a lifelong metro Detroiter or a family from out of town – should begin with a visit to the Detroit Historical Museum. This is where you will learn about our region’s founding, its rich history, its triumphs and its crises – what it means to be a Detroiter. This will give necessary context for everything else you will experience in the city. Truly, we believe that “Detroit Starts Here.”
Values
- Our Core Values
- Our Core Values
We are Authentic: We demonstrate the highest level of integrity and scholarship in all of our words and actions, ensuring that our work is balanced and truthful.
We are Relevant: We provide informative, engaging and dynamic experiences that help community members see their place in Detroit's history.
We are Creative: We embrace fresh and innovative approaches to our work and mission, and encourage our board, staff and volunteers to think imaginatively.
We are Professional: We are dedicated stewards of assets held in public trust, and our board, staff and volunteers are committed to carrying out the mission with the highest standards of excellence.
We are Inclusive: We provide informative, engaging and dynamic experiences that offer opportunities for broad and diverse participation.
Company Snapshots
