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Detroit Historical Society Launches Summer Exhibitions

Visitors exploring the Detroit Historical Society's summer exhibitions.

News Summary

This summer, the Detroit Historical Society is unveiling a series of exhibitions that celebrate the cultural diversity and rich history of Detroit, including Wayne County’s communities, comic book heritage, and LGBTQ+ history. Central to the programming is the Wayne County History Project, featuring updates on exhibits every quarter. Upcoming exhibitions will also include ‘Heroes vs. Villains: Detroit’s Comic Book Story’ and a celebration of Black Pride. The Society invites the public to engage with upcoming exhibits and contribute personal stories for future displays.

Detroit Historical Society Launches Summer Exhibitions

The Detroit Historical Society has inaugurated a series of exhibitions this summer, focusing on Wayne County’s diverse communities, Detroit’s comic book heritage, and LGBTQ+ history. These exhibitions aim to highlight the rich cultural narratives and historical significance of these topics in the Detroit area.

Wayne County History Project

Central to this summer’s events is the Wayne County History Project, housed within the historic Guardian Building. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Detroit Historical Society and Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans. The project features an 18-month exhibit series that will spotlight all 43 communities in Michigan’s most populous county. These exhibits will be updated quarterly, providing new and engaging content for returning visitors.

In addition to the exhibits, a free, searchable archive database related to the Wayne County History Project is expected to launch later this year, allowing the public to access a wealth of information about local history. Visitors to the exhibitions can also receive commemorative postcards that feature pieces of local history, enhancing their experience and providing a tangible connection to the past.

Comics and Popular Culture

Another significant exhibition is titled “Heroes vs. Villains: Detroit’s Comic Book Story.” This display focuses on the local illustrators, writers, and creators who have played a pivotal role in shaping popular culture through comic books. The exhibition emphasizes that creative inspiration can thrive outside of major coastal cities, with local talent making a notable impact on the industry.

LGBTQ+ History and Events

The Detroit Historical Society is also commemorating the 30th anniversary of “Hotter Than July,” a key event in Detroit’s Black Pride celebration. This initiative originated from the feelings of exclusion experienced by Black individuals in mainstream Pride events, highlighting the need for spaces where all can celebrate their identities. Notably, Palmer Park has emerged as a cornerstone for the Black queer community, signifying an essential chapter in Detroit’s LGBTQ+ history.

Future Exhibitions and Community Engagement

Looking ahead, the Society is preparing for the 2024 holiday exhibition, “Toy Town,” which will feature a wide array of iconic toys from the 1800s to the 1990s. The Detroit Historical Society is inviting the public to loan vintage toys and share personal stories related to them, which will contribute to the exhibition’s richness. This exhibition is scheduled to open alongside the launch of the Detroit edition of the popular board game Monopoly, with a special launch event on November 8 at the Detroit Historical Museum.

“Toy Town” will be on display from November 9, 2024, to January 5, 2025, providing a nostalgic experience for visitors of all ages.

Admission and Location

Admission prices to the Detroit Historical Museum are set at $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, students, active military, and first responders, and $6 for children, with free entry for children under 6 years old. The museum is located at 5401 Woodward Avenue in Detroit’s Cultural Center Historic District.

Closing Remarks on Community Engagement

The launch of these exhibitions reflects the Detroit Historical Society’s ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing diverse cultural stories and artifacts from Metro Detroit. Various arts events, including the opening of “Heroes vs. Villains” on May 3, also highlight the significant role that Detroit plays in comic book history, bringing the community together to appreciate its rich cultural landscape.