Speakers Bureau

From one-of-a-kind show cars straight from the pages of vintage auto show programs to experimental prototypes never meant for production, this program offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes of automotive design. Discover the bold ideas, hidden stories, and engineering experiments that rarely leave the manufacturer’s studios and labs. Don’t miss this chance to see the cars that pushed the boundaries of what was possible.

Complementing our America's Motor City exhibition:

The Detroit Historical Society is caretaker of sixty automobiles. Most are rare – many are one-of-a-kind vehicles that exist in no other collection. These include the first closed salon Cadillac, the Scripps-Booth Bi-AutoGo, and a pre-production Mustang prototype. Several were the personal cars of the Auto Barons, and some came to the Society with original engineering drawings. This presentation takes a tour of a very unique automobile collection. 

The story of the Lions catching on in Detroit doubles as the story of professional football finding its place in American popular culture. Before the Portsmouth Spartans relocated to Detroit and donned the Honolulu Blue in 1934, several pro football teams tried and failed to gain a foothold in the city. What made the Lions different? This presentation examines the instability of the infant NFL, and how the Lions (and professional football) won the hearts of Detroiters to become the institution they are today tracking the team from its small town roots, through its golden age in the 1950’s, and into the present.

From early figures like Marie-Thérèse Guyon, Madame de Cadillac, to cultural icons like Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, this program highlights remarkable women whose stories reflect Detroit’s growth and transformation. Some are household names, while others are lesser-known pioneers, but all left a lasting impact on the city and, in many cases, on the nation. 

Detroit has served as a film location since the 1920s. From black-and-white silent films to modern-day blockbusters, the city has held a distinct place in the industry. This program explores a selection of films spanning a century, along with the Detroit landmarks featured in them.

This program will inspire and educate attendees about Abraham Lincoln’s Civil War presidency and the history of American freedom and justice in the pivotal year of 1865. Additionally, this lecture will discuss the creation and implications of the 13^th amendment. 

Codenamed Midnight, Detroit was a vital station on the Undergrounds Railroad. Thousands crossed the river to freedom in Canada from Detroit. Detroit abolitionists helped freedom seekers from the south evade slave catchers and local law enforcement on their way to Canada. Detroit’s abolitionist community were fierce in their support of runaways in the face of severe local opposition. Despite this opposition, Detroit’s abolitionists persisted.

Complementing our Doorway to Freedom exhibition

This presentation explores both the causes and events of the 1967 uprising. Understanding what led to the riot/rebellion is imperative to understanding the unrest. Additionally, this lecture will seek to dispel many myths that surround ’67.

Explore the long history of Indigenous land stewardship on the Detroit River and how those practices were transformed with the arrival of Europeans. The program examines how Native peoples lived in relationship with the land and water around Detroit, the cultural and spiritual importance of Belle Isle, and the ways colonization disrupted traditional life. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of both the resilience of Indigenous communities and the lasting impact of European settlement on the region.

Join us as we "walk" through Midtown and downtown Detroit and discover the safe havens, swinging spots and surprising stories that helped African Americans from Detroit and all over the country navigate the city. 

Often called the crowning jewel of Detroit’s riverfront, Belle Isle has a long and storied history. The park has hosted world class sporting events, musical performances and family parties. It has also witnessed massacre, riot, and military incursion. But for a few twists of fate, this beloved island might have been a much different place.

Complementing our Built by the River exhibition