May 6, 2008

The Michigan Historical Center Foundation will host "A Night at the Museum" on Wednesday, May 21, from 5 to 7 p.m., an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour through Michigan history at the Historical Center's new storage facility in Lansing.  This new facility - housing more than 80,000 artifacts - has never before been open to the public.

"A Night at the Museum" will showcase artifacts from 1830 to the present day, including period clothing such as a hand-stitched gown worn to Abraham Lincoln's inauguration; early Michigan manufactured agricultural equipment; musical instruments, including Civil War drums; and furniture, such as Secretary of State Richard Austin's oak desk.

Also on display will be the custom-made baby carriage given by the city of Lansing to the first quadruplets born in the city.  The two surviving quadruplets, Edna Morlok of Greater Lansing and Sarah Morlok-Cotton of Canton, will be attending the event.

 "The Michigan Historical Center has inherited a rich and wonderful collection, and this is a one-time opportunity to discover some extraordinary pieces of our state's history," said Patricia Clark, Michigan Historical Center Foundation director.  "It's a priceless experience at an affordable price, and also helps boost our efforts to preserve, promote and interpret Michigan's past."

Over the last six years, Michigan Historical Museum collections staff inventoried and prepared artifacts for a future move.  The move to the new facility was critical, with essential environmental controls in place that will significantly increase the life span of the artifacts.

The cost to attend "A Night at the Museum" is $40, with refreshments and hors d'oeuvres being served throughout the evening.  Please contact Carol Payne at (517) 373-2565 or cpayne@michigan.gov to confirm your attendance. 

The Michigan Historical Center Foundation is a private, not-for-profit organization that supports the work of the Michigan Historical Center.  The center includes the Michigan Historical Museum, 10 regional museums, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Underwater Preserve, the Archives of Michigan, Records Management Services, archaeological and historic preservation programs, and publications, including Michigan History magazine.

The Michigan Historical Center is part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL), whose mission is to enrich quality of life and strengthen the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan heritage, and fostering cultural creativity.  The department also includes the Library of Michigan, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.  For more information about HAL, visit www.michigan.gov/hal. 

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).