A visit to Marquette just wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Museum’s three exhibit galleries. The permanent exhibit about Marquette County history fills one gallery, while the other two galleries are changed every spring to accentuate an aspect of local history.

Some of the past special exhibits include: the role forests have played in the area, how communication has changed throughout the years, the basis for changing fashion trends, transportation, celebrations, and Anishinabe culture.

Most items on display are from the museum’s collection, while some are lent to us by local collectors. Museum staff met with a committee of community experts who help develop exhibit content and assist with locating artifacts.

Past Exhibits

Special Exhibit: Anatomy of a Yooper: Exploring the Cultural Identity of Upper Michigan

Yooper - pronounced you-per (noun) a native or inhabitant of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. (American Heritage Dictionary)

The U.P. has shaped the lives of many with its severe winters, beautiful summers, plentiful wildlife, rugged landscape and remote location. Since the Ojibwa people began fishing the waters and the first immigrants found work in the mines or forests, the land has had a major influence on the culture and identity of the area. As people worked together and survived the harsh conditions together, they shared ethnic traditions, customs and languages. Throughout the years, a new culture emerged, blended by these shared experiences and the love of the land. Some call these people "Yoopers." This identity has helped people survive the challenges of this small piece of paradise proudly called the UP.

Permanent Exhibit: Marquette County History

Through artifacts and interactive dioramas, explore how the land, people and industries shaped the community and culture of the region. Displays include the prehistoric copper culture, the history of the fire arm, doll houses and a fur trade post.