"Study the past if you would define the future."

- Confucious

Mission

Our mission is to preserve and foster a passion for the history of Upper Peninsula communities on the Straits of Mackinac through curated exhibits, educational programs, public archives, and partnerships with area artists, culture bearers, families, and organizations.

Vision

The Michilimackinac Historical Society will be an esteemed organization as caretakers of the history, traditions, and cultures of the Straits of Mackinac communities.

Values

We follow professional standards in all areas of the organization’s operations and seek opportunities to learn and develop skills and stay apprised of trends in the museum field.

We are dedicated to our responsibilities as stewards of our collections and strive to protect and preserve these items in perpetuity.

We are committed to conducting all our activities, operations, and procedures according to the ethical standards of the museum profession and fulfill our mission with integrity and transparency.

We respect, value, and celebrate the characteristics, perspectives, and stories of our members, partners, and stakeholders. We believe that all voices and experiences matter and help grow our knowledge of the history of the Straits of Mackinac region and the Upper Peninsula.

We believe diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion (DEAI) matter and we endeavor to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and respected.

We serve as a valued community neighbor by partnering with local organizations, sch0ols, and businesses, and use our gift store to highlight and support local artists.

Organization History

The Mackinac County Economic Development Commission began a concerted effort in 2003 to measure the impact of history and historic sites on the local economy. As that effort was underway, it became apparent to community leaders that the region sorely needed an organization dedicated to preserving the area’s unique history and heritage.

Thus, in 2004, the Michilimackinac Historical Society (MHS) was reactivated after a 23-year hiatus. A new Board of Directors with a passion for local history energized the revitalized historical organization.

Shortly thereafter, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians gifted the City of St. Ignace with a valuable collection of regional artifacts collected by the late Dr. Donald Benson.  At that time, the City of St. Ignace entered into an agreement with the Historical Society to steward this valuable collection. Fort De Buade Museum was reopened in 2007 to house the newly acquired collection.

In 2016, the City of St. Ignace transferred ownership of the collection to the Historical Society.  We take this responsibility very seriously, and love to share the fascinating items in this collection with the public.