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About Us

Learn more about the Historical Society of Michigan.

Our state, our stories since 1828

The Historical Society of Michigan Building

Established in 1828, the Historical Society of Michigan (HSM) is our state's oldest cultural organization and helps connect Michigan’s past to its residents and organizations through programs and events, publications, awards, workshops, networking opportunities, and support for local history organizations.

HSM is a member-supported educational 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. While not a part of state government, HSM is the official state historical society by law. We are not collection based and have no exhibits or archives and do not operate the state museum or archives housed at the Michigan Historical Center in downtown Lansing.

Our HSM Update

The HSM Update, or annual report, is a great way to explore our organization. Filled with highlights of our programs, publications, nonprofit endeavors, and history education, the HSM Update celebrates the work of our team and the honors the valuable contributions and participation of our members and friends.

HSM Annual Report 2023
Pushnell family at the Local History Conference

Becoming An HSM Member

The best way to join our organization's activities is by becoming a member. Whether you're an individual or family looking to participate or an organization interested in joining our community, our memberships are a wonderful way to take advantage of all that we have to offer. Memberships include Michigan History magazine, Chronicle magazine, free access to our popular History Hounds weekly lectures, discounts, and more!

Explore Our Organization

Welcome to HSM! If you're not sure where to start or what you'd like to explore, let us recommend the following. 

2024 Michigan in Perspective: Local History History Conference

We host three annual conferences each year throughout Michigan, each focusing on a different region in our state including metro Detroit, the Lower Peninsula, and the Upper Peninsula. 

Explore Our Conferences
March/April 2024 Cover of Michigan History Magazine

Are you a reader? Learn more about our award-winning Michigan History magazine, as well as our membership magazine, academic journal, and children's curriculum set. 

Explore Our Publications
History Hounds Lecture Series Logo

From our weekly History Hounds® lectures to our traveling motorcoach tours—and even a local radio highlight—we have a program for every type of history fan. 

Explore Our Programs

Questions?

Learn how to best utilize our website for members, subscribers, and attendees on our Getting Started page. 

Contact us today via our Contact Us page, emailing us directly at hsm@hsmichigan.org, or by calling (517) 324-1828. We look forward to hearing from you!

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