The Friends of Michigan History

The Friends of Michigan History is a group of diverse people united by a deep interest in Michigan's past. Through members' action and support, the Friends ensure that our rich Michigan heritage will remain a vibrant source of study and enjoyment for future generations.

• Jump to member benefits.
• Jump to the membership application.

Who needs Friends?

The Michigan Historical Center-the only organization devoted to collecting, preserving and interpreting Michigan's past-needs all the Friends it can get. The Friends of Michigan History provide much needed resources helping ensure continued excellence at the Michigan Historical Center, through educational programs within the Michigan Historical Museum System, the Archives of Michigan and other programs.

How do Friends help?

The Friends of Michigan History use member dues, knowledge and contacts to:

• Acquire artifacts for Michigan Historical Museum collections and exhibits
• Conserve documents, photographs and maps for the Archives of Michigan
• Sponsor education programs for children and adults
• Promote interpretive and living history programs

What is a Friend's commitment?

Joining the Friends of Michigan History is a clear and meaningful expression of your deep commitment to preserving Michigan's past. Beyond that, you may wish to attend Friends meetings, or become active in program planning or sponsorship. The level of involvement is up to you.

What are the benefits of Friends membership?

A basic Friends membership ($40) brings you all the benefits listed below. Above all, as a Friends member, you will find an immense satisfaction in shaping the legacy we leave for future Michiganians.

Friends member benefits:

• A one-year subscription to Michigan History magazine
• A 10% discount at all Michigan Historical Museum Store locations. Friends members are among the select groups that can take advantage of a 20% discount during the Museum Store's Double Discount Days.
• Exclusive discounts on Michigan Historical Museum classes, workshops and summber day camps
• Nationwide museum discounts through the Time Traveler program
• Inside Michigan History, the new quartlerly newsletter created by and for the Friends of Michigan History.
• Eligibility for membership in NuUnion Credit Union 
• Tax benefits when you itemize your IRS tax return
• The Michigan Historical Center's quarterly newsletter, Front & Center
• Special invitations to Michigan Historical Museum exhibit openings
• Opportunities for travel with the Friends
• A personalized membership card

Membership Application

Join today or give someone a gift membership. It's easy! A basic Friends membership is only $40.

• download the Friends membership application [PDF, 1 page], or
• download our Friends brochure, "Stay Connected to Michigan's Past," which has an application form.

If your interest is in a specific historic site, you can join the Friends of Michigan History through one of our affiliate groups.

• download a Friends of Fayette Historic Townsite membership application [PDF], or
• download a Friends of Walker Tavern [PDF].

Friends Achievements

Through member dues, involvement and cooperative ventures, the Friends of Michigan History have furthered the mission of the Michigan Historical Center. View the president's 2007 report.

Updated 01/10/2008