The Detroit Historical Society preserves the stories, artifacts, and traditions that define our city’s unique identity. Your support helps bring Detroit’s history to life through dynamic exhibitions, educational programs, and groundbreaking research. Donor contributions also ensure the care of historical objects and documents for future generations. Together, we can foster pride in Detroit’s rich heritage, inspire dialogue, and safeguard the city’s legacy for years to come.
ways to give
Annual Fund
A gift to the Annual Fund supports educational programming, field trips for school children, community events, exhibitions, and more!
Donor Clubs
Cobblestone: $1,000 - $4,999
- Membership to the Detroit Historical Society at the Collector level with all benefits, including:
- Free parking for museum visits
- Reciprocal membership benefits at NARM member museums, children’s museums, zoos, etc.
- Time Travelers reciprocal membership benefits
- ROAM reciprocal membership benefits
- 20% discount in our museum stores
- 10% discount on one facility rental per year
- Invitation for 2 to an annual donor appreciation event
Curator: $5,000 - $9,999
All the benefits listed above, plus:
- A special VIP behind-the-scenes tour and reception at the Collections Resource Center (CRC), date TBD annually
- Thanksgiving Day Parade viewing party tickets for four (4*) people total, including parking
Preservationist: $10,000 - $24,999
All the benefits listed above, plus:
- Thanksgiving Day Parade viewing party tickets for six (6*) people total, including parking
*Note: Tickets for the Thanksgiving Day Parade increase by giving level but do not accumulate.
Benefactor $25,000 - $49,999
All the benefits listed at the 1921 Club Preservationist level, plus:
- Thanksgiving Day Parade viewing party tickets for eight (8*) people total, including parking
- Four (4) tickets to the annual Society Ball
- Special year-end gift: A beautiful Detroit-themed piece of Pewabic Pottery
Founders’ Circle: $50,000+
All the benefits listed above, plus:
- Thanksgiving Day Parade viewing party tickets for ten (10*) people total, including parking
- Eight (8) tickets to the annual Society Ball
- Dinner with CEO Elana Rugh, and Society Board Chair John Decker at one of our museums: either the Detroit Historical Museum in Midtown, or the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle, date TBD annually
*Note: Tickets for the Thanksgiving Day Parade increase by giving level but do not accumulate.
Corporate Giving and Sponsorships
Partnering with the Detroit Historical Society through corporate giving helps preserve our city’s cultural legacy while showcasing your organization’s commitment to community impact. By supporting meaningful programs, exhibitions, and initiatives, your company can make a lasting difference while aligning with your values.
We deeply value the support of corporate partners, from major companies like Bank of America and General Motors to small law firms and local businesses. No matter your size, we welcome the opportunity to collaborate in diverse and meaningful ways, including:
- Sponsorships for exhibits and programs
- Golf Classic sponsorships
- Donations for special educational projects in the community
- Corporate Tickets and Tables at Society events
- In-kind donations of materials and other needed items
- Volunteers for special projects at the museums
The Detroit Historical Society provides unique sponsorship opportunities for exhibitions, educational programs, and research projects that highlight Detroit’s history. Your partnership can help fund these initiatives and foster greater community engagement with the city’s past. Sponsorships offer a valuable way to contribute to our mission and make a tangible difference. Our Development staff is available to discuss how you can be part of these exciting opportunities.
Sponsorship opportunities with the Detroit Historical Society offer a unique way to engage with our community while showcasing your commitment to preserving our city’s past. From special events to educational programs, your sponsorship helps bring history to life while highlighting your organization’s leadership and dedication.
The Detroit Historical Society's annual Course of History Golf Classic is a premier fundraising event held each fall at the prestigious Country Club of Detroit. Participants enjoy a day of golf, on-course contests, and a post-game awards ceremony, with all proceeds supporting the Society's mission to preserve and share Detroit's rich history. Sponsorship opportunities are available, offering businesses valuable visibility while supporting this meaningful cause.
Tributes & Memorials
Celebrate someone special with a gift in their honor. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or another milestone, your tribute helps support the Detroit Historical Society’s mission to preserve and share the stories that define our community. Honor their legacy by preserving Detroit’s.
You may also commemorate the life of a loved one with a memorial gift. By contributing in their memory, you’re helping us safeguard Detroit’s heritage while honoring a cherished individual. Together, we can keep their memory alive in a meaningful way.
At the time of your gift, simply add a note about who you would like to honor.
Planned Giving
Leave a lasting legacy by including the Detroit Historical Society in your estate plans. Your generosity will preserve Detroit’s rich history, inspiring and connecting future generations.
Planned gifts, such as bequests, charitable gift annuities, and endowments, create a bridge between your story and Detroit’s past and future. Our Development team is here to help you and your financial advisor design a gift plan that reflects your values and goals.
Together, we can ensure Detroit’s history lives on.
Give now
Print our donation form and follow the instructions to mail us your gift anytime!