Exhibit Gallery

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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.

Special Exhibits

In addition to our main gallery permanent exhibit, we have a Special Exhibit gallery that rotates exhibits. Enjoy our page that features these limited time displays: Special Exhibits, to explore past exhibits and virtual exhibits.

Current Exhibit:
Exposing Photography: Anything but a Small Business 

March 6, 2023 - January 13, 2024
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​​Follow the development of commercial photography in Michigan’s central Upper Peninsula. Starting in the mid 1800s artists set up photography studios around the UP. They made a living off portrait photography. BF Childs established Childs Art Gallery in Ishpeming which ran over 70 years. Edgar and Merta Lemon started a studio in Marquette in 1909 which still operates today. Early photographers travelled throughout the Lake Superior region to document mines, local scenery, and Native Americans. Many of these images were sold as souvenirs in the form of stereographs. Some were sold in urban markets around the country or printed as engravings in Harper’s Weekly. These businessmen and women were innovators and artists in composition, hand coloring prints and enlargements. Several won international awards. Notable amateur photographers will also be examined including John M Longyear and night time wildlife photographer George Shiras III as well as photographers from the Huron Mountain Club: Harold DuCharme, Tappan Gregory, and William Harris. The exhibit draws upon the extensive collections of the MRHC and photographic historian Jack Deo of Superior View. Cameras from professional photographers and amateurs will also be on display. This exhibit includes hands-on opportunities and a Victorian photo booth.

Permanent Collection

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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.