History

Carol Moore, local preservationist and founder of Hermitage at Diamond, stands in the sanctuary of the 150-year-old former East Hills church she is restoring.

Historic Grand Rapids church finds new life as arts venue

Hermitage at Diamond blends historic preservation with contemporary art, hosting ArtPrize while fundraising to restore its landmark stained-glass windows.  

Latest in History
The interviews were filmed by GR-MiFi volunteers in a trailer donated for the day by Pioneer Construction.
West Side reunion films oral histories that bridge generations

Neighbors return to share memories as volunteers film oral histories to preserve Grand Rapids’ West Side community’s lessons for future families.  

Grandson of Vietnamese refugees gratefully accepts his legacy

Ethan Lien writes about his grandparents’ escape from Vietnam, reflecting on their sacrifice, resilience, and the legacy he carries.

Tours were conducted by members of the Ada Hotel staff at the community opening.
New Ada Hotel opens, embracing village’s rich history

A modern hotel, owned by Cheri DeVos, opens along the Thornapple River in Ada, blending stylish design with historical charm and featuring two restaurants.

Grand Rapids Public Museum receives $500K grant for archives, accessibility

The National Endowment for the Humanities award requires the Grand Rapids Public Museum to raise an additional $1.5 million to fully utilize the grant and complete the projects. 

A Q&A with the West Michigan historian behind the Historic Michigan Travel Guide

Larry J. Wagenaar has lived in West Michigan for more than 30 years. He’s the CEO of the Historical Society of Michigan, which has released an updated version of the Historic Michigan Travel Guide.

Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives Executive Director George Bayard III leads a tour.
Library and museum help residents research family trees, learn local history

Looking to dig deeper into your family tree or learn more about what your neighborhood looked like in yesteryear? Local libraries, museums and societies open the doors to their history archives and genealogy tools, which can help residents discover or rediscover interesting artifacts.

Tribal purchase of McKay Tower honors the past and secures the future

The Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians (the Gun Lake Tribe) and the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP), purchased downtown Grand Rapids' McKay Tower in January 2020.

Legislative resolution pushes rightful recognition of Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians

Michigan legislative resolution calls for federal recognition of Grand River Band of Ottawa Indians.

The Holland Museum’s new exhibit, United for Progress: The LAUP Story, opens Aug. 20.
Celebrate the history of LAUP with a new Holland Museum exhibit

The Holland Museum’s new exhibit, United for Progress: The LAUP Story, opens Aug. 20. It explores the history of the community’s oldest Hispanic organization, how it has evolved, and how it continues to serve today. 

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