Exhibitions

We make history accessible. The Clarke Historical Library's galleries, online exhibits and traveling exhibits display and interpret the Library’s historical and unique collections.

Current exhibitions

From the Consent of the Governed:
Michigan and the Values of the Declaration of Independence

Photo of a wall graphic from the exhibit showing images of people protesting throughout history.

 

The opening two sentences of the Declaration of Independence contain five core values that have driven over 250 years of progress in our collective effort to form a more perfect union:

  • People are all equal.
  • People have a right to life.
  • People have a right to liberty.
  • People have a right to pursue happiness.
  • People are empowered to stand up for their rights in the face of tyranny.
This exhibit explores how people and events in Michigan during the 20th century have embodied these values in diverse and varied ways.

 

On exhibit in the Clarke Historical Library through December 2026.

Online exhibitions

​Drawing from the Clarke Historical Library’s many and diverse resources, online exhibits and digital collections showcase the history of Michigan and the Great Lakes region. The mix of primary source material and interpretation allows everyone to learn more about our shared cultural heritage.

Traveling exhibitions

​Some exhibits that have been prepared by the Clarke Historical Library staff are available for loan. Traveling exhibits are available on the following topics:

The exhibits may be borrowed without direct cost. The borrower is responsible for transportation of the exhibit from Mt. Pleasant to the exhibit site, as well as for returning the material when the loan is completed, insurance of the items while on loan, and, in the case of original material, ensuring proper preservation standards and appropriate security precautions are in place.

For additional information about borrowing an exhibit, please call 989-774-3864.