Native American traders and 21st century captains, all present and accounted for. From small day sailors manned by pre colonial French and British traders to modern-day super carriers bearing the flags of most maritime powers, Great Lakes commercial craft, their captains and crew members are depicted and commemorated. Chart your course for the Great Lakes Maritime Museum... and step into four centuries of fascinating Great Lakes history and tradition.   

The life of Great Lakes Mariners: Above and Below Decks.

Our museum is also a veritable Great Lakes maritime hall of fame, with annual inductees joining the men and women whose lives and accomplishments on the Great Lakes are permanently stored and chronicled here. Their living quarters aboard ship are brought to life with samplings of cabin furniture, foul weather gear, lockers, lifeboats and other items completing the picture of life and work on the Great Lakes.

Ship miniatures, photographs and drawings of Great Lakes Vessels are in ample evidence here. Prominent Great Lakes structures such as lighthouses, docks, warehouses and shipping offices are also detailed in photographs or illustrations. Some of these structures are still in use while many more have faded into history. All are here waiting for you.