Current Exhibitions

Kahn exhibit

Experience Detroit's History in an Exhibition

Explore temporary and permanent exhibitions at the Detroit Historical Museum and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, learn more about off-site exhibitions in the community, and view virtual exhibits. 

Are you interested in hosting an exhibition in your museum, historic house, library, or business? Browse our traveling exhibitions for a selection of rentable exhibitions that are informational, eye-catching and budget friendly. 

You can also see a selection of past exhibitions here.

Museum exhibit room with nautical-themed displays, model ships, and historical photos on the blue and red walls.

Mail by the Pail: The J.W. Westcott Company

Dossin Great Lakes Museum

New Exhibits - Ends 08/24/2026

The J.W. Westcott Company has been an active and beloved presence on the Detroit River for over 150 years. Casually referred to as the “mail boat,” the Westcott is the U.S.A.’s only floating zip code – 48222. Westcott staff deliver mail, packages, crew members, and even pizza to the vessels that journey across the Great Lakes during shipping season from April to December, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Still a family company today, the Westcott has evolved with the times. In this new exhibition, learn how Captain John Ward Westcott started his business in 1874 as a marine reporter, documenting river traffic and delivering company communications to ships via rowboat.

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