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SPRING 2009 MAKINGHISTORY A QUARTERLY GUIDE TO EXHIBITIONS, EVENTS, TOURS, PROGRAMS, AND OPPORTUNITIES

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FEATURES Don’t miss the Dossin Great Lakes Museum Gala ...... 3 Fun things to do! ...... 6–8 New at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum ...... 4–5 Special programs at the Historical Museum . . . 10–11 2

MAKING HISTORY is the official quarterly newsletter of the Detroit Historical Society, published each winter, spring, Letter from the Executive Director summer, and fall. Questions and comments may be Bob Bury submitted to Peter Poulos at [email protected]. The importance of studying history is often the subject STAFF of debate — just ask my ninth grade daughter how she Robert Bury Executive Director & CEO feels about studying ancient civilizations or consider Michelle Wooddell Chief Operating Officer Henry Ford’s famous declaration that “History is more Tracy Irwin Director of Exhibitions & Programs or less bunk.” Alease Johnson Director of Operations Peter Poulos Director of Marketing & Sales Whatever one’s opinion, there is little denying that Bob Sadler Directorof Public & what’s happening across our community today bears External Relations striking similarity to days gone by. While all of our lives have been impacted by Pam Schumaker Director of Finance the economic downturn, imagine — or perhaps some of you can recall — the & Administration stark contrasts that Detroiters witnessed in the late 1920s and into the 1930s. Sandy Schuster Development Officer In his book All Our Yesterdays, Arthur Woodford — author, historian and member of OFFICERS the Detroit Historical Society’s History Advisory Council — describes how Detroit in Francis W. McMillan II President 1930, with its heavy reliance on the auto industry, was one of the first cities to feel Kevin P. A. Broderick Immediate Past President the fallout from Wall Street. Vehicle production dropped drastically. Auto-related Vice Presidents layoffs were extensive and lead to widespread economic hardship across the region. Christopher J. Blake Terence A. Thomas, Sr. Money and credit dried up and the public stopped spending. Home foreclosures and Lawrence N. Bluth Delores Tripp the demand for public assistance soared to unprecedented levels. Joel N. Bruss Dwight Vincent Thomas C. Buhl Jorie L. Wyatt While it’s obvious that people, companies, governmental units and organizations Benjamin J. Burns The Hon. Robert P. Young, Jr. are challenged today, we learn from history that we’ve been there before — and Jeffrey Lambrecht to an even more severe extent.

Joanne D. Brodie Secretary Perhaps more importantly, we learn that our future — and our destiny — is up to us. Thomas J. Shea Treasurer Kenneth J. Svoboda Assistant Treasurer As we face these difficult times, the need for our community to come together, Douglas P. Dossin Assistant Historian to support each other and those things that make it strong has never been more TRUSTEES important. During these tough times, preserving our region’s proud past, sharing it with the current generation and making sure it will be available to those who Dale Austin John D. Daoud follow us must remain one of our priorities. Donald Austin Stephanie Germack-Kerzic Charles M. Bayer, Jr. Ann Greenstone Robert A. Bury Marilyn French Hubbard, PhD Despite our own financial challenges, the exhibits, programs and events Bruce A. Carleton Dennis Levasseur described in this newsletter demonstrate our commitment to our mission and Judy Christian Samuel Logan, Jr. to moving forward. Please know, however, that there has never been a time when Judith Knudsen Christie David Nicholson your continued generous support has been more important. The Hon. John H. Norris Barbara-Rose Collins Lois Shaevsky Thank you for your past generosity. With your continued interest and support, David Cornillie Sheila Stone we will make it through these difficult times and emerge even stronger as we face Robert W. Cosgrove Phyllis Strome our future. Betsy Reid Creedon Carole Larson Wendzel Sincerely, HISTORY ADVISORY COUNCIL The Detroit Historical Society would Thomas Brunk, PhD like to thank Binson’s Home Health Care College for Creative Studies Centers for donating four wheelchairs Loraine Campbell Troy Historical Museum to be used at both Museums, making Robert A. Bury James Conway Historic visits accessible to everyone! Executive Director & CEO C. Kurt Dewhurst State University Museum Detroit Historical Society DeWitt S. Dykes,Jr., PhD Oakland University Charles K. Hyde Wayne State University Thomas A. Klug Marygrove College Your Support Counts! Maud Lyon Cultural Alliance of SE MI Every gift that the Society receives to make a gift to the Society and show Annette McConnell History Education Consultant helps support our mission to preserve your support of its valuable programs James McConnell, PhD History Education Consultant and present the region’s history. The and services. All gifts are completely Michael Smith Walter P. Reuther Library Arthur Woodford Dossin Maritime Group Society greatly appreciates the ongoing tax-deductible. financial support of all of our friends. You can support the Annual Fund If you’ve already made a gift, we want to through a tax-deductible gift. thank you. Please consider making an additional gift to help us continue our ON THE COVER: Enclosed with this newsletter is a important work of preserving our history Divers exploring a shipwreck. Photo courtesy of Luke response envelope for your convenience through exciting exhibits and programs. Clyburn, Nobel Odyssey Foundation. WWW.DETROITHISTORICAL.ORG 3

DETROIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY NEWS

The Results Are In! Egg-stravaganza: Presenting Sponsor A Celebration of Spring! David & Kristin Thanks to all of you who responded to our recent member survey. Nicholson More than 40% of our members responded — an astronomical number Come welcome spring with our according to our survey consultants. This tremendous response also inaugural Egg-stravaganza! Scheduled Supporting Sponsors helped us qualify for the $5,000 donation, so thanks again! for Sat., April 4, from 10 a.m. to noon, Kiwanis Club No. 1 this family-friendly event will include Foundation of Detroit So, who are our members? It was no surprise to us to learn that a “Hop into History Hunt” geared to they’re well-educated (more than 50% have either a graduate degree children ages 5–12 and the chance to or a doctorate) and more than half said that their membership was decorate egg “baskets.” Entertainment directly tied to their desire to support our mission. will include “Richard Paul’s Variety Some other interesting facts include: Show,” a fun-filled ventriloquist show that appeals to audiences of all ages. • More than 80% of our members live in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties. In addition, candy and trinkets will be passed out at various • The average household income of our members is much stations throughout the Streets of Old Detroit. higher than the average across southeast Michigan. Refreshments will also be available. • Members indicated a greater interest in all aspects of Detroit’s 300-year history, as opposed to events that Admission is FREE for both Society occurred more recently. members and all youth ages 12 • Younger members are 10 times more likely to use web and under. All other adults pay sites as their primary outlet for news and information. regular admission.

Set Sail for a Great Night! WE’D LIKE TO GIVE A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS: The Dossin Great Lakes Museum Gala is set for Friday, May 1, Dinner Sponsor: Dessert Sponsor: and you’re invited! This annual event, hosted by the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority, is an exceptional evening PVS Chemical of fun, food and great entertainment. Beverage Sponsor: Entertainment Sponsor: Join us as we transform the Museum into a Riverboat gambling Doug and Diane Dossin Michigan Marine Terminal paradise — complete with Blackjack, Roulette and Hold ‘em Poker. Guests with the winning touch can win great prizes! Décor Sponsor: Blackjack Sponsor: Jim and Ann Nicholson Sidonie Dossin Brown Prices are $200 for the “High Roller” tickets and $150 for the “Shark” tickets. Our friends ages 35 and under are invited to Auction Sponsor: Poker Sponsor: join us at the “Snapper” rate of $100/ticket. Dwight and Cynthia Vincent

To purchase your tickets, visit us at www.detroithistorical.org Roulette Sponsor: or call Bill Bryan at (313) 833-7938. Detroit International Bridge Co. Marianne Endicott

One Night Only — Discover Detroit’s Hidden Treasures

On Sat., May 30, we’re opening the doors of the Collections our renowned costume collection and a special look at our Resource Center (CRC) and inviting visitors to explore Metro military, Native American and sports collections. Also included Detroit’s most historic treasures in a special benefit event for is a special glimpse inside our archives. the Detroit Historical Society. Doors open at 5 p.m. for Benefactors and 6 p.m. for Patrons. Located on the grounds of Historic Fort Wayne, the CRC houses Ticket levels are $75 for Benefactors and $50 for Patrons. Society an estimated 100,000 artifacts celebrating more than 300 years of members save $10 off their ticket! Detroit history. This facility is not normally open to the public, but for one night only — it will be yours to explore! Dress is casual and guests will enjoy light refreshments from some of ’s most recognizable companies. To purchase your Come stroll through our transportation storage facility and marvel tickets, please use the form on page 9. You may also order online at at the 50+ automobiles preserved in our collection. Guided tours www.detroithistorical.org or by calling Bill Bryan at (313) 833-7938. will escort guests through the rest of the facility, with a peek into

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SPRING 2009 PROGRAMS AND EXHIBITIONS For more information call (313) 833-5538 or visit www.detroithistorical.org

Committed to the Deep: capabilities for a growing number of researchers. New shipwrecks are being discovered nearly every week, and vast databases make Exploring Underwater Treasures it easier to identify them. A sense of stewardship has emerged, Opens April 25 nurtured by the scientific and scholastic community, promoting Great Lakes Gallery the preservation and understanding of these significant resources. Shipwrecks have always been a part of Great Lakes history. While this is a serious subject, the exhibit is designed to be fun, LaSalle’s Gryphon, the first large vessel on the Lakes, sank on informative and intriguing. A look at diving will compare the “old her maiden voyage. Since then thousands of ships and tens of school” hard hat suits with the high tech and agile equipment thousands of sailors and passengers have met their fate on the available today. Relics from the Alvin Clark will be displayed, freshwater seas. explaining a disaster that resulted in the development of federal and state maritime preserves and protection laws. An educational Their legacy has become an underwater treasure trove for element will address the process of analyzing and documenting a historians, archaeologists and divers. Committed to the Deep shipwreck, as well as aspects of conservation and preservation. explores both the artifacts and the mysteries found beneath the waves. Join us in the quiet, underwater world where history is discovered by people who are Committed to the Deep! Recent changes in the environment of the Great Lakes, enhanced by new and powerful technologies have increased the exploration

L is for Lighthouse With almost 10,000 miles of shoreline, the Great Lakes are home Opens April 25 to a concentration of navigational lights of all types. Some sit DeRoy Hall majestically on high bluffs. Others stand bravely on artificial islands miles from land. In days gone by, they perched on ships that stood To both sailors and landsmen, there are stationary where permanent structures were not possible. few sights so reassuring or romantic as a lighthouse. For centuries, these sentinels With the advent of global positioning systems (GPS), most are no have warned navigators of dangerous shoals, guided valuable longer vital to lake commerce and are being decommissioned. In commerce to waiting markets, and welcomed mariners and many cases, local historians and preservationists are assuming passengers to safe harbor. Their importance made them control of these monuments, restoring them and making them laboratories for new technologies and engineering techniques. available to lighthouse fans from around the world. Additionally, the bravery and dedication of lighthouse keepers This exhibit pays tribute to these wonderful maritime landmarks! is the grist of legend and lore.

Last chance to see these exhibits! Bob-Lo: Entertainment Island Now open Smugglers on the Straits Fun, Fast and Fancy: Open through April 11 Great Lakes Yachts Great Lakes Gallery Open through April 11 DeRoy Hall The Great Lakes may not have Metro Detroit has been From 1898 to 1993, metro Detroiters had blood- a national leader in the made millions of memories at Bob-Lo, thirsty pirates, boating world for an island amusement park on the but the has been a Smuggler’s many decades with Canadian side of the Detroit River. Paradise for centuries! Since the founding hundreds of firms Every summer for 95 years, the of Detroit in 1701, French, English and and thousands of steamships Columbia and Ste. Claire American administrators have attempted individuals involved in some aspect of carried the young and young-at-heart to stem the steady tide of contraband Detroit’s yacht-building industry. This for a day of romance and thrills at Bob- smuggled across the river coming from or unique exhibit is the story of the Lo. View the artifacts and stories in this going to Canada. This popular exhibit tells companies, builders and the individuals exhibition that bring back the magic of the stories of these controversial and who made waterborne entertainment great! summers past. illegal endeavors!

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SPRING 2009 PROGRAMS AND EXHIBITIONS For more information call (313) 833-5538 or visit www.detroithistorical.org

2nd Annual Dossin Regatta Member Exclusive On Sunday, April 26, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum will feature a dual meet regatta between the Detroit Boat Club and the Grosse Ile High School Varsity rowing teams. Join us for a Scheduled from noon to 3 p.m., great viewing will be available in DeRoy Hall within the Museum. Following the competition, visitors can meet with the rowers from both teams as they enjoy the sneak preview! many exhibits. A special “Members Only” sneak This program is FREE. Contact Rebecca McDonald for more information at (313) 833-1801 or at preview of the two exciting new [email protected]. exhibits at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum will be offered on Friday, April 24, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This is your chance to be among Two great programs in one day! the first to see Committed to the Deep: Exploring Underwater The Dossin Great Lakes Museum will be the Then at 2 p.m., he’ll present “Thirty-Six Hours Treasures and L is for Lighthouse. place to be on Sat., June 6, as Tony Gramer, Adrift on Lake Huron: The Loss of the Schooner Check out page 4 for details on PADI Divemaster and president of Silent World Corsair.” The 133-foot schooner sailed into these great new exhibitions! Information Masters, Inc. presents two great a heavy September gale off Thunder Bay programs! Gramer has been diving since 1977. lighthouse in Lake Huron. Heavily laded with To RSVP, simply call Ebani Lowrey His images have earned awards at photography iron ore, the Corsair foundered off Sturgeon at (313) 833-1980 or email her at shows throughout North America. Each year he Point in 1872. Two survivors of the crew of [email protected]. adds some 90 dives to his log book of over seven were left to tell the story. Capt. Ed Ellison 1,700 shipwreck explorations. located the ill-fated schooner in the summer of See you there! 2001. In 2002, Tony Gramer and crew joined in At 1 p.m., he will present “Straits of Mackinac the filming and documentation. Shipwrecks.” Known as the gateway of the Great Lakes, its narrow passage and These programs are FREE to Society Members! unpredictable weather can be tricky to Others can participate for $5 per lecture or $8 navigate. As a result, the Straits is the final for both. Please contact Rebecca McDonald at resting place of approximately 100 ships, (313) 833-1801 for reservations or visit including the shipwrecks of the Maitland, www.detroithistorical.org. Sandusky and Stalker.

Museum Store features great deals

Looking for some great gifts? Then check out these great deals on You can do all of your Father’s Day shopping with us as well! tap at the Detroit Historical Museum Store. The weekend of June 12–14, all of the popular Arcadia book titles will be sold at 25% off their normal price. No coupon redemption In celebration of Opening Day, ALL memorabilia will is necessary. be sold at 25% off from April 8–11. If you’ve been putting off acquiring that special keepsake from Tiger Stadium — including Finally, our popular Arcadia Book of the Month Sale will continue, authentic seat backs — now is the time! offering you the chance to buy the title featured as part of the Society’s Author Series that month at a 15% discount off the cover In May, we’re offering a price. (See page 6 for details on our presenters.) special pre-Mother’s Day sale the weekend of May In April, the book The Detroit Police Department will be on sale, 1–3. Get Mom her followed by 20th Century Retailing in Downtown Detroit in May, favorite Detroit flavor or and The Jewish Community of Metro Detroit: 1945–2005 in June. snack — such as Faygo soda and Sanders candy Sale prices are available both in-store and online. Take advantage — and save 25% off the of the savings each and every month! regular price.

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SPRING 2009 PUBLIC PROGRAMS SOME EVENTS REQUIRE REGISTRATION. UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, YOU MAY CHOOSE ONE OF THREE OPTIONS TO SIGN UP: 1 Fill out and send the form on page 9 with your payment 2 Register online at www.detroithistorical.org 3 Call (313) 833-1801 to register by phone

Author Series Scholar Series 1654 to today’s extraordinary and diverse The Detroit Historical Society Author Series offers The Detroit Historical Society Scholar Series is an Jewish community. an opportunity to meet with those who write the academic approach to Detroit’s history. Offered bi- Learn how it all came together and how the fascinating stories behind our city’s history and is monthly, presenters cover the causes, meanings, presented monthly in partnership with Arcadia Books. outcomes and possibilities that surround events and Detroit Historical Museum became the only places in our community’s past, present and future. Midwest location to host it. Admission is FREE for Society Members and $10 for guests. RSVP is requested but walk-ins are welcome. Admission is FREE for Society Members and $10 for guests. RSVP is requested but walk-ins are welcome. Film Series Wed., April 15 • 6 p.m. The Detroit Historical Society Films Series screens films Tues., May 5 • 6 p.m. that cover a range of Detroit history subjects. Films will Featured co-author — Lt. Steven W. screen on the second weekend of every month at 1 p.m. White, Detroit Police Department Featured scholar — Patrick Livingston, Admission to films is FREE with regular admission to the (Detroit Historical Museum) Eight Steamboats: Sailing Through the Sixties Detroit Historical Museum. Since its inception in 1865, the Detroit (Dossin Great Lakes Museum) Police Department has been a pioneer in Eight Steamboats chronicles Patrick April 11 Livingston’s adventures on eight shipping adopting revolutionary advances in law The Motor City and You enforcement that are essential to policing vessels — only one of which survives — Running time: 50 min. during the 1960s. Told from the perspective today. It was among the first to put its View footage from within the of a writer who sails rather than a sailor who officers on bicycles and in 1909, was the Detroit Historical Museum writes, the tales are filled with connections first to use the patrol car. Join the author and interviews with Mike Smith, Curator of between shore and sea. While the City of as he recalls the Detroit Police The Motor City exhibit, and explore the Detroit burned in 1967, Livingston served Department’s rich history, resplendent with importance of the automobile industry on milkshakes to passengers on the South groundbreaking advancements in the field the growth of the city and the region. of law enforcement. American of the Georgian Bay Lines. Later, he sailed with the notorious George “Bughouse” May 9 & 10 Wed., May 13 Schultz on the ill-starred tanker Mercury. Who Killed Vincent Chin? Both maritime and Great Lakes enthusiasts 5 p.m. – Photograph sale and book signing Running time: 87 min. will enjoy this voyage back in time! 6 p.m. – Discussion Shown in conjunction with the Detroit’s Featured co-author — Michael Hauser, Chinatown exhibition, this Academy-Award 20th Century Retailing in Downtown Detroit Curator Chat nominated film is a powerful statement (Detroit Historical Museum) The Detroit Historical Society Curator Chat Series invites about racism in working class America If you missed the book launch in last members and visitors to take a behind-the-scenes look at popular exhibitions at both the Detroit Historical involving the bludgeoning to death of Chin, November, don’t let this opportunity pass a 27-year-old Chinese-American. In the you by! Rare and historic photographs by Museum and Dossin Great Lakes Museum. Curators explain to audiences why and how exhibitions come ensuing trial, his attacker received only a Diane Edgecomb will once again be on sale, together. Curator presentations are offered quarterly. suspended sentence and a small fine. and you will have the chance to talk with Outrage by the Asian-American community co-author Michael Hauser before and after Admission is FREE for Society Members and $10 for guests. RSVP is requested but walk-ins are welcome. successfully led to a nationwide crusade his discussion on the growth and devel- for a retrial. This film captures that story. opment of Woodward Avenue into one of Thur., June 11 • 6 p.m. America’s preferred retail destinations. (Detroit Historical Museum) June 13 & 14 Make sure to view the enlarged photo- Judy Levin Cantor is a fourth-generation Architects We Knew: ’s Legacy graphs of Hudson’s famous showcases Detroiter, whose work as a writer, historian, Running time: 81 min. that will be on display for this night only! curator and archivist has been a major This film features several scholars who discuss Albert Kahn’s beginnings, his Wed., June 17 • 6 p.m. contribution to the community. Join her as she discusses the essence of the traveling architectural interests and diversity, and Featured author — Barry exhibit, From Haven to Home: Jewish Life his impact on the city of Detroit. Blueprints Stiefel, The Jewish Community in America, presented by the Michigan and drawings of some of his most famous of Metro Detroit: 1945–2005 Jewish Historical Society and the American contributions are (Detroit Historical Museum) Jewish Historical Society. highlighted. After World War II, the nation underwent a Experience an in- mass migration from urban centers to Created in 2005 by the American Jewish depth look at the newly created suburbs. Join the author as Historical Society-Boston and modeled mind of one of the he recounts the Detroit Jewish community’s after an exhibition by the same title most influential transition, including how issues of social mounted by the Library of Congress the and legendary justice, homeland and religion have both year before, it traces the American Jewish architects and the divided and brought people together. journey from persecution to participation, legacies he created. from the original 23 refugees who landed in

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SPRING 2009 SPECIAL PROGRAMS SOME EVENTS REQUIRE REGISTRATION. UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, YOU MAY CHOOSE ONE OF THREE OPTIONS TO SIGN UP: 1 Fill out and send the form on page 9 (payment may be required) 2 Register online at www.detroithistorical.org 3 Call (313) 833-1801 to register by phone

Historic Houses of Worship Tours Monday, April 6 Metropolitan United Methodist Cass Community United Methodist Since 1972, these tours have acquainted metro First Congregational Detroiters with the contributions religious St. Hedwig institutions have made in the development of our St. Aloysius Roman Catholic community. They are co-sponsored by the National Monday, May 4 Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the Assumption Grotto State of Michigan and the Detroit Historical Society. St. Sabbas Orthodox Monastery Memorial Presbyterian Cost is $30 for members and $40 for guests. St. Paul's on the Lake Roman Catholic All tours run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and both depart from and return to the Detroit Historical Museum. Monday, June 1 St. John UCC NOTE: Due to the popularity of these tours, it’s recommended First Congregational Wyandotte that you make reservations well in advance. No individual St. Stephen's Episcopal reservations will be held without payment in full. No refunds will be given. First United Methodist Wyandotte Our Lady of Mt. Carmel

PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMS

The Detroit Historical Society has extended its partnership programs to include day and evening events offered by other non-profit and community-based organizations. Please use the contact information given for more details.

Michigan in Perspective: The 51st Annual Etiquette Tea Party Conference on Local History On Sunday, May 17, the Detroit Friday and Saturday, April 17 & 18 Historical Society Guild is presenting McGregor Conference Center – Wayne State University an "Etiquette Tea Party" for children ages 7 to 14 and their adult companion, from noon to 3 p.m. in the Cadillac Café at the Detroit Presented by the Historical Society of Michigan, in Historical Museum. Guests will enjoy desserts, tea or lemonade, conjunction with the Detroit Historical Society and the Detroit followed by an interactive and fun etiquette lesson. Everyone will Public Library, this popular conference features premier receive a free etiquette booklet as well. Admission is $12 per person. offerings on topics in Michigan and regional history. Please call (586) 777-5898 for more information and reservations. On Friday, you can attend two different sessions featuring the Due to limited seating, no tickets will be sold on the day of the event. Detroit Historical Museum's Hero or Villain? exhibit. Meet the three scholars who profiled Antoine Cadillac, Judge Augustus Woodward and lawyer/political activist Ernie Goodman at a morning session. In the afternoon, Society Director of Annual Flea Market returns Programs and Exhibits Tracy Irwin and Society Curator Joel Stone will discuss the making of the exhibit. Antique and bargain hunters will find collectibles and a variety of On Saturday morning, Tim Kiska, collaborator with the Society arts and crafts at the 26th annual Detroit Historical Society Guild Flea on the Detroit's Classic TV Personalities exhibit and author Market, taking place Sat., April 4th and Sun., April 5th from 10 a.m. to of the new book "A Newscast for the Masses" (Wayne State 4 p.m. at Historic Fort Wayne, located at 6325 W. Jefferson (at the University Press), will talk about the evolution of television foot of Livernois). Guided tours of the Historic Fort Wayne complex news in Detroit. will again be offered each day. Keynote speakers and other sessions focus on areas of local Secured parking is $5, admission is free for the flea market, and the interest including the history of the Detroit Symphony tours are priced at $3 per person. Refreshments and baked goods will Orchestra, ethnic communities and maritime history. Please also be for sale. Vendors can purchase one table for $30 or three call (800) 692-1828 or visit www.hsmichigan.org for more tables for $75. For more information on the flea market or to purchase information or reservations. a table, call Mitzi at (586) 498-9298 or Natalie at (586) 771-1353.

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SPRING 2009 Sponsored by Tour registrants receive directions to the tour location, a map and additional information in the mail BEHIND THE SCENES TOURS 1–2 weeks prior to the event. $20 Detroit Historical Society members • $30 Guests (unless otherwise noted) All tours require advance registration with payment in full. No refunds or tour credits will be given. You may choose from three options to sign-up: 1 Fill out and send the form on page 9 2 Register online at www.detroithistorical.org 3 Call (313) 833-1801 to register by phone

Guardian Building Maritime Exchange Museum Historic Fort Wayne April 4 • 11 a.m. May 9 • 11 a.m. June 6 • 11 a.m. Back by popular demand! Built If you are a maritime “Fort Wayne never saw a shot fired in during Detroit’s “building boom” enthusiast, this tour is for you! anger.” The peaceful location became a of the 1920s, the Guardian This tour takes you outside the primary induction center for has stood the test of city and into a wonderland of Fresnel lens troops entering battle in every U. S. conflict time. Join us and gain an rebuilding and restoration. The museum, from the Civil War to Viet Nam. Over the understanding of the located in Howell (3800 Chilson Road), has years it’s served as an infantry training craftsmanship and historical its own lens shop and full-time staff that station, housed the Chaplin school, and significance of this amazing restore and preserve antique lighthouse was the primary procurement location for venue. Acclaimed Preservation Wayne guide Fresnel lenses, classic acetylene gas buoy the vehicles and weapons manufactured in Ellen Howell will share her vast knowledge lights, and related lighthouse and life-saving Detroit during both World Wars. of the building and personal anecdotes service artifacts. during this great tour. Today, Fort Wayne is experiencing a Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago comeback to prominence thanks to the Detroit’s New Center Detroit Branch preservation efforts that are under way. April 18 • 11 a.m. May 14 • 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Join us as we explore this unique Detroit Don’t miss this opportunity to explore with $30 members/$40 non-members landmark! a guide the extraordinary Albert Kahn Includes wine and hors d’oeuvres Building, New Center One, , Come see one of the least-known buildings Grosse Ile Bus Tour and the in this much- in Detroit! This bank branch destroys old June 13 • 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. awaited tour. Be sure to wear your walking money, sends out new bills to banks, $50 members/$60 non-members shoes on this one! inspects notes for counterfeit bills, and Tour begins at the Detroit Historical conducts extensive economic analyses. It is Museum and includes lunch at the The Village Club also home to an impressive collection of Grosse Ile Yacht Club April 25 • 11 a.m. paintings by Michigan artists, a terraced The Grosse Ile Historical Society is housed Established in 1956 as a charitable and garden, and one of the finest gun ranges in in the old Michigan Central Railroad depot educational organization, the Club’s present the state – regularly used by Detroit’s SWAT and Customs House. We will tour both site, the Winningham House, was purchased team and other law-enforcement officers. buildings, then hop back on the bus to take in 1961. The philanthropic and social a driving tour around several of the principles upon which the Club was Coast Guard Station on Belle Isle historic homes and churches on the island. founded continue to be its main focus May 16 • 11 a.m. There will also be a stop at the Naval Air today. Classes are held, social events and Includes lunch with the crew! Station Lobby Museum and Photo Gallery. trips are planned, and fine cuisine is served. Meet some of Detroit’s own Coast Guard This is a “must see” for Detroit history officers, see their living quarters, learn Masonic Temple enthusiasts. about their weapons, see where they work June 20 • 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on their boats. You’ll also learn some knot- This tour needs no introduction. Detroit’s Famous Eastern Market tying skills and finish with lunch in the You’ve heard about the Masons, May 2 • 11 a.m. galley. Maritime and boat lovers should not so come take an extensive look Linda Yellin, with Feet On The Street Tours, miss this tour! behind the scenes of the largest will lead this popular walking and tasting and most complete building of its kind. tour, blending history, stories and updates College for Creative Studies Wear your walking shoes for this one! about the market district. You’ll visit May 28 • 6 p.m. specialty shops and meet the vendors From its Boston-Edison District offering unique food items. Enjoy the old beginning in 1906 June 27 • 11 a.m. time flavor as the Society of Arts and Crafts to its ever- This ever-popular tour pairs the knowledge and historical changing present and future, the College for of historian Jerald Mitchell and the beauty buildings that Creative Studies; better known as CCS, is an of one of Detroit’s most beautiful and date back to urban hub of creativity and ingenuity. Come unique historic neighborhoods. The area the 1890s on enjoy the campus, learn about its various features over 900 homes where no two a vibrant, attractions, including the Josephine F. Ford houses are alike! Early residents of Boston- fun-filled tour. Sculpture Garden, and view artist Edison included James Couzens, Henry demonstrations. Ford, Joe Louis, Horace Rackham, and Sebastian Kresge.

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TOURS & SERIES REGISTRATION

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Phone E-mail Make checks payable to: Detroit Historical Society If paying by: [ ] VISA [ ] MasterCard

Account # Exp Date

Signature Date MAIL TO: Attn: Tours, Detroit Historical Society, 5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI, 48202

Exclusive members-only Member Dinner Days $40 DETROIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEMBERS # OF TICKETS SUBTOTAL  Thur., May 7 6 p.m.  Thur., June 4 6 p.m. Discover Detroit’s Hidden Treasures SOCIETY MEMBERS SAVE $10 OFF TICKET PRICE  Sat., May 30 5 p.m. Historic Fort Wayne $75 Benefactor  Sat., May 30 6 p.m. Historic Fort Wayne $50 Patron Behind the Scenes Tours $20 DETROIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEMBERS • $30 GUESTS (UNLESS NOTED)  Sat., April 4 11 a.m.  Sat., April 18 11 a.m. Detroit’s New Center  Sat., April 25 11 a.m. The Village Club  Sat., May 2 11 a.m. Detroit’s Famous Eastern Market  Sat., May 9 11 a.m. Maritime Exchange Museum  Thur., May 14 7 p.m. Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago $30 Members $40 Guests  Sat., May 16 11 a.m. Coast Guard Station on Belle Isle  Thur., May 28 6 p.m. College for Creative Studies  Sat., June 6 11 a.m. Historic Fort Wayne  Sat., June 13 11 a.m. Grosse Ile Bus Tour $50 Members $60 Guests  Sat., June 20 2 p.m. Masonic Temple  Sat., June 27 11 a.m. Boston-Edison District Historic Houses of Worship $30 DETROIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEMBERS • $40 GUESTS  Mon., April 6 10 a.m.  Mon., May 4 10 a.m.  Mon., June 1 10 a.m. Author/Curator/Scholar Series Registration  Wed., April 15 6 p.m. Author Series FREE Members $10 Guests  Tues., May 5 6 p.m. Scholar Series FREE Members $10 Guests  Wed., May 13 5 p.m. Author Series FREE Members $10 Guests  Thur., June 11 6 p.m. Curator Chat FREE Members $10 Guests  Wed., June 17 6 p.m. Author Series FREE Members $10 Guests GRAND TOTAL $

DETROIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY • SPRING 2009 10

SPRING 2009 EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS For more information call (313) 833-1805 or visit www.detroithistorical.org

Hero or Villain? Metro Detroit’s Legacy of Leadership 100 Years Ago Now Open Now Open Booth-Wilkinson Gallery Second Floor Corridor

Ever wonder what some of the leading This exhibit is made Community Partner companies were 100 years ago — and possible by a generous which of them are still around today? Ever contribution from the thought about how advertisers “pitched” Foundation and Bank of America. the Model T to consumers in 1908? Do you know what song made its debut a century What makes a leader? Are there certain Seen through the eyes of their neighbors, ago and is still sung by literally millions of qualities or characteristics that define media and peers, these individuals made people each year? leadership? Are leaders a product of their their mark in metro Detroit and this exhibit times or would they have rose to such shows you both sides of their story so If you enjoy discovering the answers to status regardless of when they lived? you can come to your own conclusions. questions such as these, then you won’t Moreover, why do some think of a want to miss one of the exhibit 100 Years particular leader as “hero” and others The individuals featured are: Antoine Ago. Comprised of photographs, as “villain”? Cadillac, , Ty Cobb, Fr. Charles newspaper articles and artifacts from Coughlin, Henry Ford, Ernest Goodman, the period, it provides visitors a glimpse Hero or Villain? Metro Detroit’s Legacy of Martha Griffiths, Jimmy Hoffa, Orville of Detroit a century ago, providing a Leadership explores these questions by Hubbard, Nancy Ann Martin, Irene McCabe, snapshot into the lives of residents. It’s focusing on the lives of a wide range of Chief Pontiac, Walter Reuther, Ossian guaranteed to make community leaders who provoked Sweet, Augustus Woodward and you say, “I didn’t passionate opinions in metro Detroit. Coleman Young. know that.”

Museum hosts Revolutionary Detroit: Member Exclusive symposium on Jewish A Global Legacy Life in America Symposium

Join us for Member Dinner Days On Sunday, May 17, at 10:30 Join us at the Detroit a.m., the Jewish Historical Historical Museum on Sat., The Detroit Historical Society will host Society invites you to join them April 25, from 10 a.m. to two special evenings just for members, for an outstanding symposium 4 p.m., for a special program Community Sponsors each featuring guest speakers and a on “Jewish Life in America.” examining Detroit’s unique role in fabulous dinner after-hours in the Detroit Presented in conjunction with contributing to the Revolution during Historical Museum. the Haven to Home exhibit, the the American War of Independence. It program features the follow is presented in collaboration with On Thur., May 7, at 6 p.m., join Bob Casey, distinguished speakers: Wayne State University along with Curator of Transportation at The Henry This program funded Deborah Dash Moore, Huetwell several local historians. The program Ford, as he presents a rarely heard side in part by Michigan Professor and Director of the includes a luncheon keynote address Humanities Council. to the success story of the Model T. Learn Frankel Center for Judaic by Brian Dunnigan, author of about the marketing and advertising efforts Studies at the University of A Picturesque Situation, Mackinac of Ford’s early PR mastermind, who Michigan; Kenneth Waltzer, Before Photography 1615–1860. just happened to be an embezzler, and Professor of History at James experience the success of the Model T Madison College and Director Tickets are $10 for students, $15 for in a new way. of the Jewish Studies Program Society members and $20 for all at Michigan State University; others. Call (313) 833-1801 for Then on Thur., June 4, at 6 p.m., come and David Weinberg, Professor reservations and more information. listen to Jim Gallert and Lars Bjorn, authors of History and Director of of Before Motown, the first book about the Cohn-Haddow Center for history of jazz in Detroit, as they explore Special admission hours and offers! Judaic Studies at Wayne our city’s jazz history from 1920 to 1960. State University. In addition to a lively discussion, they The Detroit Historical Museum will celebrate both Spring Break (Monday, April 13 through Sunday, April 19) and will present several recently discovered Co-chairs for the program photographs and share some rare music! Flag Day (Sunday, June 14). During Spring Break, the are Judge David Groner and Museum will observe extended hours by opening Judge Amy Hathaway. Cost is $40. For reservations, call 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day the week of April 13th. Call (248) 432-5517 for Rebecca McDonald at (313) 833-1801. program fees and registration! On Flag Day, anyone wearing red, white and blue will Hurry — space is limited! be admitted for half off!

WWW.DETROITHISTORICAL.ORG 11

SPRING 2009 EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS For more information call (313) 833-1805 or visit www.detroithistorical.org

Detroit’s Classic Now Open TV Personalities Booth-Wilkinson Now Open Showcase Kresge Gallery Come see the some of our newest acquisitions, including: Presenting Sponsor Community Sponsor Media Partner a pair of skates worn during michigan council for michigan council for arts and cultural affairs arts and cultural affairs the Detroit Red Wings 2007–2008 Stanley Cup Championship Season and a This activity supported by the This activity supported by the unique dress actually made Michigan Council for Arts and Michigan Council for Arts and from film canisters that was Cultural Affairs. Cultural Affairs. worn to the 1993 Fash Bash by Louise Hodgson. While we may not see them on Nick-at-Nite or any of the other nostalgic TV channel lineups, the names and faces of those being featured in the Detroit Historical Society’s upcoming Detroit’s Classic TV Personalities Detroit Artist’s Showcase are every bit as familiar to those who grew up here during a time when Now Open • Level Two “rabbit ears” were a popular accessory at appliance stores. Say “Detroit” and most people think of cars, sports and Motown — but seldom art. However, our region has long Indeed, the seven individuals being featured — Bill Bonds, John Kelly, Bill been home for some of the world’s most talented artists. Kennedy, Emery King, Amyre Makupson, Soupy Sales, and Marilyn Turner — are an important part of our community’s shared history. Each carved This installment features several pieces from renowned a unique niche in Detroit’s highly competitive television market. From artist Robert Hopkin (1832–1909). Throughout his career rapid-fire reporting to zany after-school fun to insightful interviews, the he produced nearly 400 works in oil or watercolor that stories they brought into our living rooms informed, humored, and often were shown at exhibitions around the country. His even disturbed us. paintings graced numerous Detroit landmarks, including St. Anne’s Church and the . He was The exhibition features a variety of artifacts as well as footage from their honored in 1907 with the founding of the Hopkin Club. original broadcasts. It gives “must see TV” a whole new meaning! Today, that organization is known as the .

COMMUNITY GALLERY

In 2006, the Detroit Historical Society dedicated a 1,600 square-foot gallery in the Detroit Historical Museum’s Alger Hall for use by community non-profit organizations and institutions of higher learning that raise awareness and appreciation for metro Detroit’s communities and cultures. Sponsored by Comerica, this Community Gallery has helped a number of groups tell their story.

Detroit’s Chinatown From Haven to Home: Jewish Life in America Presented by: Chelsea Zuzindlak and Presented by the Jewish Historical Society of MI in cooperation with the the Friends of Detroit’s Chinatown Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit Opens April 4, 2009 Opens May 6, Stark Hall

This special exhibit tells the untold — and often The touring exhibition “From Haven to Home” chronicles and brings to life the overlooked — story of the people and events that American Jewish experience, focusing on America as "Haven” — the Jewish aided in the development of the cultural community immigrant’s refuge from persecution in countries abroad — to America as and immigrant area known as Detroit’s Chinatown. "Home," the creation of permanent Jewish communities in the U.S. The exhibit features more than 200 reproductions of American Judaic treasures from the In addition to capturing its past, the exhibition will collections of the Library of Congress, augmented by a selection of important explore the efforts of local activist groups to loans from other institutions. renovate this unique cultural space, an area with immense potential for both preservation and growth. Among its treasures are a letter from the Hebrew Congregation of Newport, R.I. to President George Washington, and his letter in response, as well as a copy of Come and learn more about this fascinating chapter the hand-written version of Emma Lazarus' poem "The New Colossus," which is in our community’s history. inscribed on the base of the Statue of Liberty. Michigan artifacts include memorabilia from the Faygo Company, historic war uniforms and ceremonial items dating back centuries.

DETROIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY • SPRING 2009 MISSION VISION 5401 Woodward Avenue Detroit, MI 48202 To educate and inspire our community and visitors by To create a shared sense of community and (313) 833-7935 preserving and portraying our region’s shared history pride by celebrating the history and the www.detroithistorical.org through dynamic exhibits and experiences. unique culture of our region.

5401 Woodward Ave. 100 Strand Drive, Belle Isle Detroit, MI 48202 Detroit, MI 48207 (313) 833-1805 (313) 833-5538 Hours Hours Wed. – Fri. 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Groups Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Groups Sunday Noon – 5 p.m. The Museum will close at 3 p.m. Call (313) 833-1805 ext. 3 Call (313) 833-5538 ext. 3 The Detroit Historical Museum on Saturday, April 11 for an event. to schedule a group tour. to schedule a group outing. will close at 4 p.m. on Saturday, CLOSED: May 16. Host an Event April 12 for the Easter Holiday Host an Event CLOSED: Call (313) 833-1805, ext. 4 Admission Call (313) 833-5538 ext. 4 April 12 for the Easter Holiday to host an event at the to host an event at the Admission is FREE. EXTENDED HOURS: Detroit Historical Museum. Dossin Great Lakes Museum. April 13 – 19 • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Volunteer Volunteer Admission Call (313) 833-5538 ext. 2 Call (313) 833-1805, ext. 2 Adults $6 to volunteer at the to volunteer at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. Children (age4 & under) FREE Detroit Historical Museum. Seniors (age60 & above) $4 Youth (ages 5–17) $4

Parking $4

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