2009Annual Report
2009 Annual Report The only true test of values, either of men or of things, is that of their ability to make the world a better place in which to live. – Henry Ford Welcome and thanks from the chairman and the president For our region, our state, our country and the world, the year 2009 was one marked by great economic upheaval. Here in Southeast Michigan, it was felt in particularly profound ways, as we experienced historic and momentous change in what, for decades, had been our primary industrial base and the source of our global reputation. The impact on the American automotive industry was equaled, if not eclipsed, by a near-meltdown in the world’s financial markets. Throughout the country, it was a year of incredible challenge for our industries, our government, our institutions and our families. In such challenging times, institutions — particularly cultural institutions like The Henry Ford — become all the more important. In 2009, more than 1.6 million people were drawn to our campus, roughly 100,000 more than we had averaged during the previous several years. Why, in a time of such severe economic strain, did an increased number of people choose to spend time and discretionary resources visiting an American history complex? We believe the answer lies in The Henry Ford’s unique offerings; namely, the opportunity for families to immerse themselves in the optimism that infuses the stories of American innovation, ingenuity and resourcefulness that we present. They are traits that have successfully led us through the toughest and most challenging moments in our history.
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