Special Exhibits

Special Exhibits 2024

Consumer Co-operatives in the
Central Upper Peninsula: A Middle Way

January 29 – April 27

The central Upper Peninsula (Marquette, Alger, Delta, and Dickinson Counties), has an extensive history of organizing consumer co-operatives, dating back to the late 1880s. This exhibit outlines how co-ops were involved in more than just selling goods. They have been active in local politics, aiding strikers, advocating for food safety, supporting immigrants, fostering communities, and fighting against other injustices
faced by the working class. Co-ops offered an option between traditional capitalist stores and a socialized economy.

Cooperatively Yours
Wednesday, March 13, 6:00 p.m.
Join us for this film showing of Cooperatively Yours and discussion with film director Kristin Ojaniemi.

50 Years of Guts Frisbee in Marquette

May 13 - September 21
(note extended exhibit dates!)

In 1974 a Guts Frisbee tournament came to Marquette’s Cliffs Ridge ski hill. Thousands of paying spectators lined the playing fields. Guts Frisbee had its beginnings in the Keweenaw Peninsula in the late 1950s when the Healy brothers played at a family picnic. They then started an annual tournament, the International Frisbee Tournament. Soon folks from Marquette were driving up to play or watch and forming teams like the Queen City Flyers. This sport has spread around the world and is now part of the World Flying Disc Federation. Marquette players have competed as far away as Japan. Celebrate the origins, the rich personalities, and the camaraderie in this U.P. Sport.

Special Event: Wednesday, July 31, 6:30 p.m. Celebrate 50 Years of Guts Frisbee in Marquette,
Join Steve “Desi” DesJardins of the Queen City Flyers and Dennis “Wally” Walikainen the curator of the International Frisbee/USA Guts Hall of Fame in Calumet. Hear the stories of the beginning of Guts Frisbee in the Keweenaw in the 1950s and Marquette’s entry into the sport in the 1970s. These two legends will share their first hand accounts. Meet other Guts enthusiasts and view the special exhibit. $5 suggested donation.

School Days: Educating Marquette County

October 7 - June 7, 2025

Explore the educational history of Marquette County from the Bishop Baraga parochial school, to the John D. Pierce School run by Northern Normal. High school education was a luxury for many families, with only 55% finishing school in 1970 nationwide. Marquette was progressive in many ways in educating its children, including building a public high school in 1859. Early examples of technology, class projects, and artwork will be on display.

Exhibit Opening: Wednesday, October 23, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
What was the first school in Marquette County? Find out how schools got formed county-wide, enjoy the fascinating artifacts that shaped our schools, from special projects to long-serving teaching objects. Meet the curator, Jo Wittler during this exhibit reception. $5 suggested donation.

Special Exhibit 2023

Exposing Photography: Anything but a Small Business

March 6, 2023- January 13, 2024
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.

Exhibit Opening Reception: Wednesday, March 22, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Join Curator Jo Wittler and tour the Exposing Photography exhibit.

We now have available a video tour of this exhibit for sale!
Take a look here.

Special Exhibit 2022

Railroads of Marquette County: Yesterday and Today

January 31, 2022 - February 11, 2023
Railroads were a central part of Marquette since its earliest development. Trains were an everyday sight around the city and downtown, crossing Front Street with ore cars, pulling into the depot to pick up and drop off passengers, or hauling logs from Alger County. Many Marquette families relied on the railroads for their livelihoods. Multiple railroads were headquartered in the city of Marquette. As iron mines on the Marquette Range opened in the 1840s, railroads developed to haul the iron ore. As mining expanded, so did the number of tracks and ore docks. Soon passengers, iron ore, timber, and other freight were all shipped to or from Marquette County. The railroads connected Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to the rest of the country. Learn where tracks ran, what they carried, and their destinations. We will look at how working the railroad has changed over the decades and how it is part of this region today. This exhibit features select hands on elements as well as maps, artifacts, and photographs.

Exhibit Opening Reception February 9, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
Join us before our Yardmaster program on February 9th to enjoy the special exhibit and meet the curator.

Enjoy an online overview at this exhibit here.

Special Exhibits 2021

The Story Behind Their Clothes

April 26, 2021 – January 8, 2022
What do Yoopers wear? Yoopers have been pioneers, Victorian businessmen, farming women, immigrant families, Northern students and more. These clothes represent some of the many ordinary people who helped shape our community over the last 170 years. This exhibit draws from the MRHC’s extensive collection of clothing and accessories from the fashionable to the everyday. Items seldom displayed include handmade deerskin gloves, a handwoven linen dress, and a young girl’s silk outfit made from her father’s World War II flight jacket lining. It will examine who made or altered the item or where it was purchased.This close look at clothing, including its interior and construction, will help us understand the people who wore it.
Enjoy the online version of the exhibit here.

Opening Reception: Wednesday, April 28th at 5:00
This event will be an open house style reception to celebrate the opening of this new exhibit. Chat with Curator, Jo Wittler, about her process of creating the exhibit. The museum is open and we will continue to follow guidelines for capacity and spacing. Masks required. Donations always appreciated.

Special Exhibits 2020

The Great Outdoors: The History of Recreation in Marquette County

Exhibit dates are now: July 20, 2020 - April 10, 2021
Enjoy the exhibit online here.

Marquette has a long and rich history of outdoor recreation beginning with the first tourist who came here to fish in 1849. Follow the changes from the first camps in the late 1800s to the first car campers and the development of "The Land of Hiawatha" in the 1940s. Encounter the first hand stories of the local pioneers in outdoor recreation including skiers, bicyclists, rock climbers, and ice climbers.

Special Exhibit Opening Reception
Wednesday August 5, 2020, 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Talks begin at 5:30 pm
Professor of Health and Human Performance Dr. Jacqueline Medina will speak about health benefits of outdoor recreation and the importance of outdoor recreation as a historical topic. Learn about the interviews Jacquie has recently conducted with twelve recreation pioneers. A short slideshow will be also presented on the history of climbing in the central UP by Phil Watts, grandfather of Marquette rock climbing.
Visitors will meet outside and have the opportunity to see the special exhibit and meet some of the pioneers in outdoor recreation between the presentations. There may be a few surprises as well.
$5 suggested donation. All program activities will maintain social distancing measures. We ask you to wear a mask when entering the building.

Wildlife Photography Presentation and Final Look Reception: December 7-12, 2020
Our annual family friendly December open house will be a winter celebration of our outdoor recreation exhibit, with a pre-recorded slide show on-going all week for social distancing and safety, by wildlife photographer Steve Lindberg. Photo op. Free, donations appreciated.

This Great Outdoors exhibit is made possible in part by a grant from the Michigan Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this project do not necessarily represent those of the NEH or the MHC.

Vote and Be Counted: Local Elections and the Census

January 20 - June 6, 2020 Special View: Online Exhibit

Extended: This exhibit will now remain open through July 3rd,
after our three month closure March 17 - June 15 due to Covid-19 pandemic.

2020 is a census year, a presidential election year and the centennial of Women's Suffrage. In this exhibit explore local political figures and movements and learn about the importance of the census in our community and for family research.

Opening Reception: January 29, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
We are pleased to feature a talk by Priscilla Burnham, the League of Women Voters vice President and Director of Voter Services. Her talk: A Brief But Spectacular History of Women's Suffrage in America, celebrates the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and the founding of the League of Women Voters. The LWV of Marquette County presents this 'living history project' to chronicle the long, tumultuous, but ultimately successful struggle to win full suffrage for the women of America, culminating in the passage of the 19th Amendment 100 years ago. The story of the battle for women's right to vote will be told through the voices, the writings, the images and events that marked this gripping, polarizing time in America's history. Also enjoy time to chat with Curator Jo Wittler about the special exhibit. $5 suggested donation.

Special Exhibits 2019

Archeology on Ice

October 7 - December 28, 2019

The exhibit describes the emerging discipline of Glacial Archeology and the unique archeological discoveries found in ice patches in Alaska. The exhibit is the result of decade-long field research and highlights climate change as well as the research, discoveries and tribal participation in the project. Artifacts as well as videos will be displayed. This is a traveling exhibit from the Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, University of New Mexico. In addition there will be a display of archeology in Marquette County. Our region is drawing interest from outside scholars lately. One recently discovered site has been identified as one of the earliest known fur trade sites in the Great Lakes, dating to the early or mid 17th century. Learn more about the site, artifacts, and how we can learn to honor these places.

Opening reception: October 16, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Lecture by key researcher for Archeology on Ice, Dr. James Dixon. Free, donations appreciated.

Dr. Dixon will also speak about his work and the exhibit on December 12, 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Science on Tap, Ore Dock Brewing Co., 114 W. Spring Street, downtown Marquette.

Changing Hands: A Heritage Crafts Exhibit

April 29 - September 26, 2019

Along with a series of craft workshops throughout the year, this exhibit will showcase a variety of traditional crafts. Topics will include: hair art, Norwegian fiber arts, beading, miniatures, wood burning, bookbinding, paper cutting, Potawatomi carved wooden spoons, Finnish bird carving, Ojibway quill art, and seed saving. Learn more about the crafts of our immigrant, Vicortian and Native American ancestors. It will include exquisite examples from the History Center's permanent collection, the workshop instructors and the community.

Opening reception: May 1, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Dan Truckey will speak about the folk traditions brought to our region by various ethnic groups. Research Librarian, Beth Gruber will present on genealogy sources available in our library. Light refreshments will be served. Free, donations appreciated.

Women's Work is Never Done

January 14 - April 13, 2019

Women have spent countless hours cooking, cleaning, tending fires, and caring for children. They also created beautiful yet useful household items such as hand woven rugs, colorful quilts, embroidered tablecloths, as well as lace camisoles and clothing for their families. This exhibit looks at specific women in our community from the past and present, both housewives and servants, telling their tales in their own words. It explores the daily lives of a pioneer in the mid-1800s, a Victorian in Marquette in the 1880s, a farmer's wife during the Depression and more. Artifacts on display will include a variety of household appliances and tools as well as elegant and everyday handwork from the 1850s to the 1970s.

Opening reception: February 6, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm, light refreshments will be served. Free, donations appreciated.

Special Exhibits 2018

Centennials

January 15 - May 12
The Marquette Regional History Center celebrates our organization's 100th year in 2018. This exhibit explores our museum's history and what was going on in our county and nation in 1918. It celebrates the many businesses, people and organizations that are 100 or more years old. From centennial farms, cherished family camps, banks, service organizations and more! Learn about the first Lions group to form in Michigan in 1919.

Opening Reception: January 24, 5:00pm - 7:00pm, light refreshments will be served. Free, donations appreciated.

100 Artifacts

May 26 - September 1
As part of the History Center's 100th Anniversary, explore 100 artifacts from our permanent collection--from an historic birch bark canoe model to a vintage hat or two, to a beautiful music box. We collect the whimsical, mundane, archaic and awe inspiring. Learn more about the permanent collection and some of the amazing donations we have received over the years.

Opening Reception: May 30, 5:00pm - 7:00pm, light refreshments will be served. Free, donations appreciated.

The Changing Face of Medicine: A History of U.P. Healthcare

September 15 - December 31
See the evolution in the region's medicine from the time of patent medicines, home visits and the growing understanding of germs, to the St. Luke's School of Nursing and beyond. Hear first-hand accounts from the people who have cared for this community's health. Learn about the battles against epidemics, tuberculosis, polio and an early case of kidney disease in which the community rallied to provide the financial support for the necessary yet expensive dialysis.

Opening Reception: September 19, 5:00pm - 7:00pm, light refreshments will be served. Free, donations appreciated.

Special Exhibits 2017

World War I Remembered: How Marquette County Served

January 14 - June 10
The most important event of the 20th century, the Great War continues to shape our world one hundred years after the US entry. Learn of the events leading up to the war, as well as the legacy left in its wake. Explore the impact of the 32nd Division, whom the French named Les Terribles. Read firsthand accounts of local soldiers and sailors, and discover the role of the local Red Cross and life on the home front during the war. As part of the community wide remembrance, see posters, and Facebook for other exhibits and events.

Kissing the Water: The Lure and the Lore of Fly Fishing

June 24 - September 16
There is magic involved in fly fishing. See how this sport captures art, philosophy, literature and environmental concerns. From handmade rods and flies, to the work of John Voelker, fly fishing has a rich history in this region. There will be numerous special events relating to this exhibition.

Great Girls in Michigan History

September 20 - October 18
Celebrating nine girls from across Michigan including a wrestler, an activist and a soldier who did great things before they turned twenty. Upper Peninsula girls Nancy Harkness Love, Copper Country aviator during World War II, and Jane Johnston Schoolcraft, Ojibwe creative writer and translator, are featured. This traveling exhibit was created by the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame. Sponsored by Zonta Club of Marquette.

Logging Marks

November 1 - December 30
Logging was a large and powerful industry that shaped the landscape of our backyards and forests. Michigan law required logs to be marked on both ends to reduce the theft of timber. Rod Smith, education coordinator with the Michigan DNR, collected many of these log marks. Study these logs from around the Upper Peninsula and learn about the logging companies they represent. Sponsored in part by the Rod Smith Family.

Special Exhibits 2016

Toys in Yooperland

January 16 - April 16
See the wonderful toy collection from the History Center - from colorful tin toys, quirky mechanical toys to beloved dolls and stuffed animals. Explore toys and games from the Victorian Era to the late 20th century and see how they have changed or remained the same.

The Folk Art Tradition of Upper Michigan

May 2 - September 3
Folk artists have a long history in Upper Michigan. Many works stem from ethnic traditions, while other pieces were created to celebrate the lifestyle of the rural north woods. This exhibit highlights pieces from other museums, artists, and from our own permanent collection.

Marquette County Collects

September 17 - December 29
Private collectors around the region acquire strange and wonderful items from autographs to vintage flashlights. These fascinating works give us insight into our culture. Come see some of the highlights.

A small part of a telephone collection displayed in our 2014 Ma Bell exhibit.

Special Exhibits 2015

Let's Tie the Knot

January 19 - April 25

Discover the origins of our wedding traditions and view beautiful and unique gowns and their stories from the Center's extensive collection. Many of our traditions date back only 100-150 years. Glimpse local brides in period gowns and some unique dresses made from unusual materials such as a gown made from a WWII parachute. Open during regular museum hours. Included with general admission.

Woodland: Suzan Pitt

May 4 - August 29

Suzan Pitt is an internationally acclaimed painter and filmmaker who has lived and painted here every summer for the past 16 years. These works are not landscape "pictures" but are the artist's interpretation of the inner being of the forest---not only as it "appears" --but as it breathes and moves and emanates its natural being. Suzan Pitt's work is known for its surreal and psychological visual explorations which emanate and express the underlayment of place. Pitt has created a 17' mural panorama of the primeval forest especially for this exhibition and will present this among watercolors and acrylic paintings of the plants and trees of the Upper Peninsula in Marquette County.

Exhibit Reception
May 20, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Meet the artist, gallery talk at 7:00 pm. Refreshments provided. Free to MRHC members; suggested $5 donation to non-members.

Be sure to attend some of the Woodland Offshoots summer long programming in conjunction with this exhibit. Printable brochure below.

Henry Ford in the U.P.

September 12 - January 2

Once the largest private landowner in the U.P., Ford wanted to control all aspects and resources involved in automobile manufacturing. His passion drove him to buy extensive timber lands and to operate mines and lumber mills from Kingsford to Big Bay. View artifacts and photographs gathered from museums and private collections from around the state for a rare look at Ford's impact north of the bridge.

Gallery Talk with Ford Corporate Historian Bob Kreipke
September 23, 6:30 pm
As Ford Corporate Historian and Creative Manager, Bob Kreipke has produced many award winning films and authored three books on Henry Ford and the Ford Motor Company. Free to members, $5 suggested donation for the general public.

Photo credit: Ford with Boot, courtesy of Bill Vicary

Henry Ford, ca 1923, on one of his camping trips. He camped with Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone and naturalist John Burroughs in a group they nicknamed The Vagabonds. These grand excursions were made to the Upper Peninsula and other regions of the country.

Special Exhibits 2014

Ma Bell

January 15 - April 12
Members only gallery talk: January 23 at 6:30pm

Since Alexander Graham Bell’s first words “Mr. Watson—come here—I want to see you,” telephone use has exploded into new dimensions. Explore how this telephone has influenced our lives for over 130 years. See a local switchboard, antique and unique phones.

Are We There Yet? - Celebrating Tourism and Recreation in Michigan's Upper Peninsula

April 25 - August 30
Members only gallery talk: May 1 at 6:30pm

Wealthy Victorians have been lured to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula seeking a healthy paradise. Visitors and residents have sought both the simple pleasures, like a campfire, as well as adventurous activities, like ski jumping. Re-live the places, past times and the kitsch souvenirs of the UP.

Victorianism in Upper Michigan

September 15 - January 3
Members only gallery talk: September 25 at 6:30pm

See how the Queen’s long and powerful reign influenced social life in the UP in the mid to late 1800s. The growth of technology and the middle class changed the role of women in the home bringing new domestic arts and a development of women’s hand crafts. Sentimental and ornate homes and clothing were the style, as was a strong mourning culture.
See local hair wreaths made in honor of passing pets and family members.

Special Exhibits 2012 & 2013: to be added soon

Special Exhibits 2011

John Lautner: A Life in Architecture
Examined the life of Marquette native John Lautner (1911-1994) who is considered one of the most influential architects of the twentieth century. After receiving a degree from NMU, he studied with Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin. He settled in Los Angeles and for over 50 years designed innovative buildings that demonstrated a true sensitivity to location and space and the needs of his clients.

  Part of the Lautner exhibit at the History
   Center.

   This was our first special exhibit in our
   new building on Spring Street.

Special thanks to John Lautner's daughter,
   Carol Lautner Peterson, for her assistance
   with the exhibit.

John Lautner, a Marquette native, on a rock outcropping near his beloved summer home, Midgaard.