Davison Museum 
Est.1989

Celebrating Our Heritage

Established in 1989, the Davison Area Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of Davison, Michigan. Our journey began with Davison’s centennial celebration as an incorporated city, sparking a collective dream to create a museum that showcases our community’s storied past.

Our Founding and Mission

The foundation of our society was laid on February 25, 1988, with our first meeting at City Hall. By April 1988, we had elected officers, incorporated, and established our non-profit status. Our mission is to preserve and share the history of Davison for present and future generations.

The Davison Area Historical Museum

On May 20, 1990, our dream became a reality with the opening of the Davison Area Historical Museum at 263 East Fourth Street. Originally a fellowship hall for the Free Methodist Church built in the 1950s, the building was transformed into a barrier-free, handicap-accessible museum with the help of a Community Block Grant. Today, it serves as a vibrant hub for our historical displays and society activities.

A Glimpse into Davison’s Past

The history of Davison is long and colorful. In 1836, siblings Debby, Andrew, and Alson Seelye from New York State established the first settlement, known as Seelyeville. They built a general store and an ashery in a grove of Black Locust trees. The first frame house was erected in 1839 by Christopher Miller, whose log cabin later served as the area’s first schoolhouse.

The Growth and Challenges of Early Davison

By the early 1850s, Wicker’s Corners had become a key stagecoach way station. However, the completion of the railroad in 1871, which bypassed Wicker’s Corners, led to the establishment of Davison Station, named after Judge Norman Davison, the area’s largest landowner.

A significant event in Davison’s history was the fire of April 30, 1894, which devastated much of downtown. This tragedy spurred the community’s resilience and determination, leading to the formation of the Davison Volunteer Fire Department and the construction of a new City Hall in 1895.

Our Commitment

As we look back on our past, we are filled with pride and gratitude for the community’s support. The Davison Area Historical Society remains committed to preserving our heritage and making our museum a living, loving place for all to visit.

Thank you for being part of our journey. We invite you to explore our exhibits and join us in celebrating the history that shapes our community.