Interested in researching Leelanau history or genealogy? You can begin by accessing our database through the button below named “Research Online Catalog.” Research inside the archives is by appointment only during our open hours. Request an appointment through our CONTACT page.
Staff and volunteers have worked for several years to record the museum’s archives and collections in a digital format. Currently, 60 years of donated objects, documents and photographs, more than 14,000 items, are entered into the PastPerfect museum database. Additions to the database and revisions will continue with uploads to the online catalog each month.
The Society also has an extensive collection of early newspapers that can be viewed on site. Digitally search our early newspapers here…
(select Leelanau Enterprise from the drop down menu) Search by date or keyword. The digital search only offers The Leelanau Enterprise between 1880-1927 at this time. More years and other local newspapers are in the process of being added.
The Edmund F. and Virginia B. Ball Foundation supporting grants, the Viskochil Family and the annual Golfathon donors have made the digital database project and online research tool possible for all to enjoy.
The Leelanau Voices Oral History Collection contains over 250 interviews. Thanks to an anonymous donor the collection was digitized in 2019. The interviews can be requested by calling or emailing the society, archives@leelanauhistory.org.
Click on the button above for a full inventory of digital Oral Histories.
A few samples from the oral history collection:
Owen Bahle
Robert White
Rita Rusco
Links to Area Museums
Eyaawing Museum & Cultural Center
Omena Historical Society and Museum
Sleeping Bear Point and Maritime Museum
Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear
Manitou Islands Memorial Society
Traverse Area Historical Society
Traverse Area District Library, Local History Collection
Traverse Area District Library-Grand Traverse Genealogical Society