Chippewa County Historical Society - Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

Introduction

The Chippewa County Historical Society (CCHS) is a treasure trove of local history and culture, nestled at 115 Ashmun St, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, in the heart of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This esteemed institution is dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the rich history of Chippewa County, offering a wealth of insights into the region's past through its engaging exhibits, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives. With a Google My Business rating of 4.7/5 based on 18 reviews, the CCHS is highly regarded by both locals and visitors alike.

Main Services

• Museum Exhibits: The CCHS houses a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Chippewa County from its earliest days to the present. Exhibits include the Soo Locks exhibit, the WWII exhibit, and the Native American exhibit, offering visitors a comprehensive look at the region's history.
• Educational Programs: The CCHS offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, including school tours, field trips, and workshops. These programs aim to engage and inspire learners, fostering a deeper understanding of local history.
• Research Library: The CCHS maintains an extensive research library containing genealogy records, county histories, and other resources that are open to the public. This invaluable tool allows visitors to explore their own history and connect with their roots.
• Community Events: The CCHS hosts and partners with other local organizations to present a range of community events, such as lectures, workshops, and family-friendly activities. These events provide opportunities for the public to engage with history in a fun and interactive way.

Location and Access

The CCHS is conveniently located in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, within walking distance of numerous other attractions, shops, and restaurants. The museum is easily accessible by car, with on-site parking available, and is also served by nearby public transportation. The building is wheelchair-accessible, with a designated entrance and toilet facilities.

Visitors coming from out of town can find accommodations at nearby hotels, such as the Kewadin Casino Hotel (0.7 miles away) or the Delta Hotel by Marriott Sault Ste. Marie (0.9 miles away). Dining options within walking distance include The Antler Restaurant and Bar, located within the CCHS building, and other local favorites like The Savoy and Muldoon's Pasties & Gifts.

Featured Characteristics

• Historic Building: The CCHS is housed in a beautifully restored 1912 Federal-style building, which itself is a testament to the region's history. The building's architecture and interior design create an authentic atmosphere for exploring the past.
• Gift Shop: The CCHS gift shop offers a variety of unique items, including books, souvenirs, and locally crafted goods. This is an excellent place to find the perfect memento or gift to commemorate your visit.
• Outdoor Exhibits: In addition to its indoor exhibits, the CCHS features an outdoor exhibit area that includes a historic lighthouse and other structures. This space provides an opportunity to explore Chippewa County's history beyond the museum's walls.

Practical Information

The CCHS is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Admission is free, although donations are welcome and help support the museum's ongoing efforts. Guided tours are available by appointment, and group tours are also welcome. For the most up-to-date information on hours, exhibits, and events, visitors are encouraged to consult the CCHS website at cchsmi.com or call the museum directly at 9066357082.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Some of the most commended aspects of the CCHS, as mentioned in its Google My Business reviews, include:

• Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff: Many reviewers praise the friendly and helpful staff at the CCHS, highlighting their expertise and passion for sharing local history.
• Engaging Exhibits: Visitors frequently comment on the interesting and well-curated exhibits, which cater to both adults and children alike.
• Affordable and Accessible: Reviewers appreciate the free admission and the museum's wheelchair accessibility, making it easy for everyone to enjoy its offerings.
• Community Involvement: The CCHS is praised for its active role in the community, hosting events and providing educational opportunities that engage and inform both locals and tourists.

👍 Reviews of Chippewa County Historical Society

pocahontas R.

4/5

the ladies here are very knowledgeable! friendly & helpful it was a wonderful place to stop in there are numerous new & used books for sale & stories abound. they will also direct you to more local sites you may miss. I highly recommend you stop in. the only disappointment I had is that their native chippewa artifacts are extremely limited. considering their name & and location, we had thought they would have had more. this is the only reason they didn't get 5 stars .we were unaware of the ticket sale thing going on, so no, we didn't buy tickets.

Chloe

5/5

The staff was very knowledgeable about the history of the city and the historical industry transportation. Their model of the town is very detailed and historically accurate.

Ruth N.

5/5

The train display is great! Especially great for train enthusiasts and kiddos!

Phyllis B.

5/5

This is a well organized and interesting place to visit with a wonderful train layout, unique shop with area books and little treasures for you and your home. The staff here is friendly and proficient in local research, and some of them are authors of local books. Many volunteers are enthusiastic and dedicated workers in this interesting old downtown building. Before Christmas there is an open house which is well attended.

Kelli Z.

5/5

The recreated buildings in the train display allowed me to revisit my childhood in the Soo! The volunteer helped guide us where to go for more Native American history in the area. The ancestory tree posted was very informative

John P.

4/5

Small museum a lot of space has an O gauge train layout representing a past Chippewa County. The kids will love to see it and it has a few interactive buttons. Just watch that they don't try to touch with out asking first. It was a good way to explain logging, mining, & other industries of the area to the kids. While doing that a spouse can check out the rest of the museum. Stuff was friendly and helpful. Was a nice stop for a short visit. Put, a few buck in to help them out on the way out.

Tracy T.

5/5

We stopped by here after a nice lunch across the street and were so happy we did. We were met by a young man, Rowan. He may have been a teenager but he was a very informative and engaging guide! His passion for history and youthful exuberance really made for an interesting local history lesson. It’s definitely worth your time to stop in. They also have a great selection of local history books.

Carol M.

5/5

Love Bernie Arabic stories!!’ Also all of the info and pictures from the Coullards, and other contributors .and especially
your staff!. Thanks!!!

pocahontas R.

4/5

the ladies here are very knowledgeable! friendly & helpful it was a wonderful place to stop in there are numerous new & used books for sale & stories abound. they will also direct you to more local sites you may miss. I highly recommend you stop in. the only disappointment I had is that their native chippewa artifacts are extremely limited. considering their name & and location, we had thought they would have had more. this is the only reason they didn't get 5 stars .we were unaware of the ticket sale thing going on, so no, we didn't buy tickets.

Jim T.

5/5

Wonderful woman who was on duty the day we visited. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the area. Great big model train set up of the area that works. Many local displays. Located in a beautiful historic building and worth stopping by.

Andrey S. (.

5/5

Chippewa County Historical Society has an amazing scaled model of the town & railroad, plus artifacts and souvenirs. Building’s under renovation, so it’ll be even better soon! A must for history buffs.

Chloe

5/5

The staff was very knowledgeable about the history of the city and the historical industry transportation. Their model of the town is very detailed and historically accurate.

Phyllis B.

5/5

This is a well organized and interesting place to visit with a wonderful train layout, unique shop with area books and little treasures for you and your home. The staff here is friendly and proficient in local research, and some of them are authors of local books. Many volunteers are enthusiastic and dedicated workers in this interesting old downtown building. Before Christmas there is an open house which is well attended.