Dearborn Historical Museum

A Gateway to Dearborn’s Past

Located in the McFadden Ross House, which was built in 1839 and once served as the Detroit Arsenal Powder Magazine, The Dearborn Historical Museum holds a large collection of items from the Ross family representative of early daily life in Dearborn, as well as a great variety of exhibits from local history and genealogy archives.  Guided tours of the building are available to learn about the pioneer settlers in the Dearborn area, and view exhibits about Dearborn history.

In addition, the museum grounds host the Richard Gardner house on its campus, moved to the area in 1996.  The Garner house is representative of the early pioneer days, and its original owners, the Gardners, were one of the first families to settle in the area, making the Richard Gardner house the oldest standing home in Dearborn.

The Dearborn Historical Museum also maintains the Commandant’s Quarters nearby, located in Downtown Dearborn at 21950 Michigan Ave. The Commandant’s Quarters is Dearborn’s oldest building still standing on it’s original location, used as a military headquarters from 1833-1875. Today, visitors can tour the building furnished as it was in the 19th century to learn about life during the period, as well as view extensive exhibits about Dearborn’s military history.

Admission is free but donations are greatly appreciated!