The challenging environment of the Upper Peninsula has helped shape the dynamic, persevering and resourceful people who call it home. The natural resources determined livelihoods, and there is a deep connection between residents and the land. 

Travel back with us and explore state-of-the-art interactive exhibits, unique artifacts and engaging oral histories which bring the 11,000 year journey to life.

One World to Another:
The History of the Canoe
May 14-September 1, 2012
Explore the use of the canoe by the Ojibwe, fur traders and beyond. This will be one of the first regional exhibits to showcase the living tradition of the canoe. Historic photographs, artwork, tools and early recollections will be on display. Members of the National Wooden Canoe Heritage Association will feature prized examples of modern birchbark, early wooden and canvas canoes. 

Funded by the Wooden Canoe Heritage Association and a grant from the Michigan Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Tools of  the Trade
September 14-November 17, 2012
The tools of coopers, wheelwrights, carpenters and others will be featured, plus the stories of the craftsmen who made the ordinary and extraordinary items around our region. Highlights include local collections and rare examples of tools.

See what exhibits the museum has had on display in the past!

The permanent collection includes artifacts from the Prehistoric copper culture through contemporary times. Only a fraction of the permanent collection is on display at one time. Ongoing special exhibits allow the museum to highlight different areas of the collection.

Over the years, the community has been so generous with donations, that the museum recently moved to a larger location. The new location is climate controlled and allows for continued collection of artifacts.

Donating an Item