The State History Awards

About the State History Awards
Each year, the Historical Society of Michigan presents State History Awards to individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the appreciation and understanding of Michigan history. The awards are presented at the annual Michigan History Conference and recognize the excellence of achievement by an individual or organization in the collection, preservation, and/or promotion of state and local history.
Want to Nominate Someone For a State History Award?
Anyone, regardless of experience or credentials, can nominate a worthy candidate to be considered for a State History Award. Learn more about the award nomination process below. Nominations for the 2023 State History Awards are now closed.

A Category For Everyone
Outstanding achievements deserve statewide recognition. Books, restoration projects, educators and educational programs, professional and volunteer service, institutions, special programs and events - all these categories and more are eligible for the Historical Society of Michigan's prestigious annual State History Awards. Learn about the categories below.
Who can nominate someone?
Anyone can make an award nomination, including individuals who volunteer or are employed by an organization or institution. Self-nominations are also welcomed.
What are the categories?
- Lifetime Achievement
- Distinguished Volunteer Service (Individuals only)
- Distinguished Professional Service (Individuals only)
- Books: University & Commercial Press
- Books: Private Printing
- Books: Children & Youth
- Communications: Printed Periodicals
- Communications: Websites
- Education: Educational Programs
- Education: Educator
- Institutions
- Local Societies
- Media
- Restoration/Preservation
- Special Programs/Events
- Best Article in Michigan History magazine
- There are no nominations for this award; it is decided by the Awards Committee.
- Best Article in Chronicle magazine
- There are no nominations for this award; it is decided by the Awards Committee.
How do I know if my nomination won?
Everyone submitting a State History Award nomination is contacted after the Nomination and Awards Committee has made its final decisions.
When does the award get presented?
Awards are presented in the fall at the Historical Society of Michigan's annual Michigan History Conference.
Recent Awardees
Take a look at last year's winners below, and explore the rest of our News section to discover previous years' awardees at our three annual conferences.


The Michigan History Conference
Our State History Awards are presented each year at the Michigan History Conference. An annual event that travels throughout the Lower Peninsula visiting new locations each year, the Michigan History Conference celebrates all of Michigan's history in an exciting weekend filled with tours, keynotes, breakout sessions, and more. Don't miss out on all of the fun—join us at the next one!
Questions?
Our awards team is ready to help with any of your comments, questions, and more regarding the State History Awards and its nomination process. Send them an email at awards@hsmichigan.org or call (517) 324-1828 for assistance.