You are invited to shape the experience of history at 500 North Main Street in Ann Arbor
In 2026 we will celebrate the 200th anniversary of Washtenaw County's organization in1826. There are 1,001 stories to tell and the Washtenaw County Historical Society is looking to add new trustees to our board of directors and volunteers to help with projects and planning in 2025. If you have financial, legal or museum experience, or just love history we invite you to join us. Board terms are three-years. Serving as a board member or volunteer is a great way to help protect and promote local history. Please click here to express your areas of interest. We appreciate the many members and supporters of the Washtenaw County Historical Society who have made the decision to give back by sharing their dollars, time and expertise.
If you like gardening, we could use your help at the Museum
We are looking for volunteers to help maintain and beautify our gardens. Whether you have experience or not, your help will be greatly appreciated.Volunteers will learn from Master Gardener Lily Ferguson before working independently. Please fill out the volunteer form and check gardens. You can also email the Historical Society or call 734-662-9092.
Most early American cities and towns were located on or near a river, creek or lake for domestic and agricultural water supply as well as for navigation purposes. Before trains and highways, waterways were the most effective way to move heavy goods over long distances. They provided an accessible source of fresh water for drinking, irrigation, and industry including the operation of dams and mills of various sorts, the production of electricity, and of course - recreation. This exhibit takes visitors on a journey exploring the history of some of our County’s waterways and the industries, resources, products and communities they sustain. Exhibit hours are Saturdays and Sundays, 12 noon-4pm and weekdays by appointment. Click here to schedule your visit or call 734-662-9092. Groups and students are welcome. We are located at 500 N. Main Street, at the corners of East Kingsley, Beakes and Main Street in Ann Arbor.
"Along the Waterways of Washtenaw County" Exhibit at the Museum on Main Street
Everyone is invited to be a part of our mission:
to educate and inspire our community to engage in
the preservation and presentation of area history.
Historically Speaking: Washtenaw County Votes!
Many people will be heading to the polls to cast ballots on the Tuesday after the first Monday of November. Who picked that day in 1845, and why? That question and more will be answered about the national and local history of voting roles and rights through fascinating facts and interesting stories. Presenters are Larry Kestenbaum, Washtenaw County Clerk and Bev Willis, Washtenaw County Historical Society Administrator. Light refreshments will be served after the program. This free event is open to the public but space is limited, RSVPs are encouraged, click here to save your seats!
About the building: Constructed in 1901, this brick building at 310 S. Ashley was the polling place and meeting hall for Ann Arbor’s Second Ward. It served the German neighborhood now known as the Old West Side. John and Mary Hathaway bought it from the city in 1969 and kept it mostly as it was. They added vintage chairs, tables, and other furnishings, selected for their local connections and authentic character.
Take the Ann Arbor Bicentennial Quiz
Check back every week for 10 new questions, until we get to 200! This quiz was developed by the Ann Arbor Bicentennial History Subcommittee and other Ann Arbor Contributors.
What's Happening at The Museum on Main Street
When you come to the exhibit, check out the gorgeous garden and the recent exterior painting of the Museum. We are open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 noon-5pm and weekdays by appointment. Call 734-662-9092 or email wchs-500@ameritech.net.
ANN ARBOR’S STORY - The First 50 Years If it takes a village to raise a child… what does it take to raise a village? Raising a village takes pioneers whose stories range from inspiring to mysterious, and heroic to heartbreaking. It takes settlers who build homes, operate farms, raise families and connect with each other to form communities. And it takes home-made items, businesses, and occupations that contribute to the quality of everyday life. In celebration of the Bicentennial, this exhibit looks at one of the most curious periods of Ann Arbor’s history: the first 50 years (1824-1874). Intriguing artifacts, objects, textiles, photos, and maps from the collection will be mixed with stories and more to show what life was like for the earliest residents.
ANN ARBOR SMART TOURS
Your smartphone can give you access to fifteen self-guided online tours, each with its own theme. Each of the 177 tour sites includes a photograph and a narrative describing its significance to Ann Arbor. You are encouraged to spend the Bicentennial year visiting each site. Print a copy of the Tours Checklist to note each of your visits.
The Bicentennial Victorian Tea at the Ann Arbor City Club
History enthusiasts are invited to savor a variety of teas, delicious light bites, and sweet treats on Sunday, April 21, from 2-4 PM at The Ann Arbor City Club,1830 Washtenaw Avenue. Justin Wetenhall, director of the Whaley Historical House Museum in Flint MI will present an entertaining and informative program.Seating is limited. Call 734-662-9092 or email wchs-500@ameritech.net for more information.
The Washtenaw County Historical Society was founded on December 17, 1857, when 19 citizens of Ann Arbor called for "a county convention for the purpose of forming a County Historical Association" to be composed of anyone from the townships who cared to attend. 165 years later, the WCHS exists to educate and inspire our community to engage in the preservation and presentation of area history.
Donate, Join, Renew - This Work Really Needs You!
THE WCHS appreciates the support of members and donors. Collecting, preserving and exhibiting local history takes a community of people who care about our present and future.
Washtenaw County Historical Society
PO Box 3336
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
The Museum on Main Street
500 N. Main Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
734-662-9092
Open Saturdays & Sundays
12 Noon - 4 pm