Chippewa County Historical Society - Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

Chippewa County Historical Society: A Treasure Trove of Local History

Nestled in the heart of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, the Chippewa County Historical Society offers a fascinating journey into the rich history of the region. Located at 115 Ashmun St, the historical society is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike, providing a comprehensive look into the area's past through its extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits.

Main Services

• Museum: The historical society's museum houses a vast array of artifacts that tell the story of Chippewa County's past. From Native American history to the fur trade, Logging era, and beyond, the museum offers a comprehensive look into the region's cultural heritage.
• Research Library: The society boasts an extensive research library, which includes books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, and other archival materials. This resource is invaluable for those interested in conducting in-depth research on local history.
• Educational Programs: The Chippewa County Historical Society offers a variety of educational programs, including school tours, workshops, and lectures. These programs aim to engage and educate the public about the region's history.
• Preservation Efforts: The society is committed to preserving and protecting the county's historical and cultural heritage. This includes the restoration and maintenance of historic buildings, as well as the collection and preservation of artifacts and documents.

Location and Access

The historical society is located at 115 Ashmun St, in the downtown area of Sault Ste. Marie. The building is easily accessible, with wheelchair-accessible parking available on-site. The entrance and toilet facilities are also wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that the museum is accessible to all visitors.

For those traveling by public transportation, the historical society is located near several bus stops, served by the Chippewa County Transit Authority. The museum is also within walking distance of many downtown hotels and attractions.

Featured Characteristics

• Exhibits: The museum features a variety of exhibits that showcase the county's history. These include a reconstructed fur trader's cabin, a one-room schoolhouse, and a logging camp exhibit that transports visitors back to the early 20th century.
• Archives: The historical society's archives contain a wealth of information about the county's past. These include oral histories, photographs, and other primary source materials that provide firsthand accounts of life in Chippewa County.
• Gift Shop: The museum's gift shop offers a range of merchandise related to local history, including books, maps, and other souvenirs. Proceeds from the gift shop help support the society's preservation efforts and educational programs.
• Restaurant: The on-site restaurant, the "Fur Trader's Cafe," serves a variety of dishes inspired by the region's history. The cafe is a great place to refuel after exploring the museum's exhibits.

Practical Information

The Chippewa County Historical Society is open year-round, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission to the museum is free, although donations are welcome. The society also offers memberships, which provide additional benefits such as discounts on merchandise and invitations to special events.

For more information about the historical society, its exhibits, and programs, visit the official website at cchsmi.com. You can also call the society at 9066357082 or follow them on social media for updates and news.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Visitors to the Chippewa County Historical Society consistently rave about the quality of the exhibits and the knowledge of the staff. Many reviewers highlight the friendliness and helpfulness of the ladies working at the museum, who are always ready to share their expertise and answer questions. The society's extensive collection of books and other resources is also frequently praised, with many visitors commenting on the wealth of information available for research purposes.

Several reviewers also appreciate the society's commitment to preserving and sharing the county's history, noting that the museum provides a valuable insight into the region's past that might otherwise be lost. The on-site restaurant is also a hit with visitors, who enjoy the delicious food and the unique atmosphere.

The Chippewa County Historical Society is more than just a museum; it's a gateway to the past, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich history of Chippewa County. Whether you're a local history buff or a first-time visitor, the historical society is a must-see destination that provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's past.

👍 Reviews of Chippewa County Historical Society

pocahontas R.

4/5

the ladies here are very knowledgeable! friendly & helpful it was a wonderful place to stop in there are numerous new & used books for sale & stories abound. they will also direct you to more local sites you may miss. I highly recommend you stop in. the only disappointment I had is that their native chippewa artifacts are extremely limited. considering their name & and location, we had thought they would have had more. this is the only reason they didn't get 5 stars .we were unaware of the ticket sale thing going on, so no, we didn't buy tickets.

Chloe

5/5

The staff was very knowledgeable about the history of the city and the historical industry transportation. Their model of the town is very detailed and historically accurate.

Ruth N.

5/5

The train display is great! Especially great for train enthusiasts and kiddos!

Phyllis B.

5/5

This is a well organized and interesting place to visit with a wonderful train layout, unique shop with area books and little treasures for you and your home. The staff here is friendly and proficient in local research, and some of them are authors of local books. Many volunteers are enthusiastic and dedicated workers in this interesting old downtown building. Before Christmas there is an open house which is well attended.

Kelli Z.

5/5

The recreated buildings in the train display allowed me to revisit my childhood in the Soo! The volunteer helped guide us where to go for more Native American history in the area. The ancestory tree posted was very informative

John P.

4/5

Small museum a lot of space has an O gauge train layout representing a past Chippewa County. The kids will love to see it and it has a few interactive buttons. Just watch that they don't try to touch with out asking first. It was a good way to explain logging, mining, & other industries of the area to the kids. While doing that a spouse can check out the rest of the museum. Stuff was friendly and helpful. Was a nice stop for a short visit. Put, a few buck in to help them out on the way out.

Tracy T.

5/5

We stopped by here after a nice lunch across the street and were so happy we did. We were met by a young man, Rowan. He may have been a teenager but he was a very informative and engaging guide! His passion for history and youthful exuberance really made for an interesting local history lesson. It’s definitely worth your time to stop in. They also have a great selection of local history books.

Carol M.

5/5

Love Bernie Arabic stories!!’ Also all of the info and pictures from the Coullards, and other contributors .and especially
your staff!. Thanks!!!

pocahontas R.

4/5

the ladies here are very knowledgeable! friendly & helpful it was a wonderful place to stop in there are numerous new & used books for sale & stories abound. they will also direct you to more local sites you may miss. I highly recommend you stop in. the only disappointment I had is that their native chippewa artifacts are extremely limited. considering their name & and location, we had thought they would have had more. this is the only reason they didn't get 5 stars .we were unaware of the ticket sale thing going on, so no, we didn't buy tickets.

Jim T.

5/5

Wonderful woman who was on duty the day we visited. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the area. Great big model train set up of the area that works. Many local displays. Located in a beautiful historic building and worth stopping by.

Andrey S. (.

5/5

Chippewa County Historical Society has an amazing scaled model of the town & railroad, plus artifacts and souvenirs. Building’s under renovation, so it’ll be even better soon! A must for history buffs.

Chloe

5/5

The staff was very knowledgeable about the history of the city and the historical industry transportation. Their model of the town is very detailed and historically accurate.

Phyllis B.

5/5

This is a well organized and interesting place to visit with a wonderful train layout, unique shop with area books and little treasures for you and your home. The staff here is friendly and proficient in local research, and some of them are authors of local books. Many volunteers are enthusiastic and dedicated workers in this interesting old downtown building. Before Christmas there is an open house which is well attended.