Ada History Center - Ada Historical Society

08/31/2026

We could not be more excited that Historical Society of Michigan's annual conference is coming to GR! Check out the link to explore some of the many offerings. The speakers are fantastic and, if you're local, it's a double bonus because presentations focus on GR area history.

If you enjoy studying women’s history, we have some upcoming sessions at the Michigan History Conference you won’t want to miss!

Join us as we explore the legacy of Anna Bissell, who persevered in a male-dominated world in the 19th and 20th centuries as she managed a major company, Eva McCall Hamilton—Michigan’s first female legislator—and Joseph and Emma Ford, a nineteenth century Black power couple who left their mark on Grand Rapids and beyond.

The Michigan History Conference takes place in Grand Rapids on September 25-27. Save your seat today at https://hsmichigan.app.neoncrm.com/forms/web-mhc-2026

08/28/2026

It is a truth universally acknowledged that we have the very best volunteer crew around. Got to celebrate them yesterday with a luncheon catered by Yesterdog (Happy 50th!) and a behind-the-scenes tour of Grand Rapids Public Museum's extensive archives.
💙Ada is a better place because they give their time so generously. 💙

08/26/2026

Quilt series part. 4 - Lotus Garden Quilt.
If you want to see more details of this quilt, or see more quilts in our collection, check out the Quiltindex.org.

08/25/2026

08/24/2026

So are you more family heirlooms, IKEA, or resale?

As Americans celebrated the nation's 150th and 200th birthdays, the desire to purchase Americana and antiques skyrocketed, driven by nostalgia. The years around 1926 (think Art Deco, jazz, Philadelphia Expo) and 1976 (think colonial motifs, bicentennial. collectible items) saw unique surges of patriotism and distinct manufacturing booms.

~ Early American Life, August 1979 issue. Headquartered in Gettysburg, PA, the magazine focused on traditional American architecture, crafts, antiques, and social history.

08/22/2026

You. Guys.
Last year, Ada History Center added a native plants garden just outside our main entry door. Just counted SIX monarch caterpillars in the 4'x4' space.
Native plants are beautiful and attractive? Who knew? Oh yah, Wild Ones River City-Grand Rapids Area Chapter who helped us with the project. 🦋

08/21/2026

Garden photos from the Ada History Center and invitation for the Garden Event on August 25.

08/19/2026

Quilt series part. 3 - Pink Quilt.
If you want to see more details of this quilt, or see more quilts in our collection, check out the Quiltindex.org.

08/17/2026

🦅This Month in '76 🦅

08/12/2026

Quilt series part. 2 - Cigar Quilt.
If you want to see more details of this quilt, or see more quilts in our collection, check out the Quiltindex.org.