Hackley and Hume Historic Site

Hackley and Hume Historic Site The Hackley and Hume Historic Site preserves the homes of Muskegon's most well-known lumber barons
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The Hackley and Hume Historic Site tells the story of two men who used their business educations, work experiences, and natural talents to take advantage of lumbering opportunities in Muskegon and build vast fortunes. They not only worked together, but built homes on the same piece of land. The homes feature many original stained glass windows, exquisite wood carving, and period furnishings.

In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the Civilian Conservation Corps as part of the New Deal. This progr...
08/31/2026

In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the Civilian Conservation Corps as part of the New Deal. This program employed 2.5 million men nationwide to “preserve our precious natural resources.”

In the grips of the Great Depression, this program uplifted young men into the workforce. They were provided lodging in military-style camps, 3 meals a day, and a $30 monthly income.

In Muskegon, the CCC constructed campgrounds, trails, and the original blockhouse in Muskegon State Park. Their camp was located where the Winter Sports Complex Lodge now stands.

Happy Birthday, Helen Hume!
08/26/2026

Happy Birthday, Helen Hume!

We extend our sincere thanks to .co for dedicating their Day of Service to the Fire Barn Museum. Earlier this summer, o...
08/24/2026

We extend our sincere thanks to .co for dedicating their Day of Service to the Fire Barn Museum.

Earlier this summer, our maintenance team prepared the back side of the building by scraping paint, replacing deteriorating siding, and priming the structure. Higley’s Construction completed the project with a full, fresh paint application during their Day of Service, giving the Fire Barn Museum a renewed and much‑needed lift.

In 1868, the Ladies Baptist Aid Society began organizing efforts to start a church in Muskegon. On August 22, 1870, Reve...
08/22/2026

In 1868, the Ladies Baptist Aid Society began organizing efforts to start a church in Muskegon. On August 22, 1870, Reverend James Ferdinand Hill answered the call to be the minister of First Baptist Church.

The church was erected on Clay Ave and Second St and dedicated on May 28th, 1871. The following year, on August 18, Julia Hackley was baptized into membership, making her the 11th member to be received in that way. She regularly attended First Baptist until 1887. Upon her death in 1905, she bequeathed $15,000 to the church.

(Photo #1: Rev. James Ferdinand Hill. Photo #2: First Baptist Church in 1891.)

We’re hiring a Historic Sites Program Assistant at the Muskegon Historic Sites. This role supports daily operations acro...
08/20/2026

We’re hiring a Historic Sites Program Assistant at the Muskegon Historic Sites.

This role supports daily operations across the Hackley & Hume Historic Site, the Fire Barn Museum, and the Scolnik House of the Depression Era, including tours, programs, and behind‑the‑scenes work that keep our sites running smoothly.

🚒 Obenchain-Boyer Chemical Engine 🚒 The name "Chemical Fire Engine" can be misleading. The engines did not use chemicals...
08/16/2026

🚒 Obenchain-Boyer Chemical Engine 🚒

The name "Chemical Fire Engine" can be misleading. The engines did not use chemicals to extinguish fires; instead, they used them to pressurize the water in the cart. This cart held 45 gallons of water, pressurized by generating carbon dioxide.

The water was first mixed with baking soda, and then a bottle of sulfuric acid was broken inside the tank, releasing it into the water. The firefighters simply turned the hose valve and extinguished the fire.

Since the engine created its own pressure and had its own water, it did not need time to be connected to a hydrant and build up pressure like a steam fire engine.

The Hackley North Chimney Project is moving right along. 🧱✨Since our last update, the crew from Grand River Builders ha...
08/14/2026

The Hackley North Chimney Project is moving right along. 🧱✨

Since our last update, the crew from Grand River Builders has spent about two and a half weeks building the scaffolding and platforms needed to safely reach every part of the chimney.

With that in place, the team has begun the careful process of deconstructing the chimney brick by brick. You’ll notice a mix of original bricks and replacement bricks in today’s photos. Our goal is always to preserve as much of the original material as possible and restore only what can’t be saved.

This is slow, meticulous work, but it’s how we protect the craftsmanship that makes the Hackley & Hume Historic Site so special. More updates soon!

08/12/2026

Step into the 1930s at Dog Days of Summer!

Try your hand at gardening, laundry on the lawn, and even ice‑cream making at the Scolnik House of the Depression Era.

Fun, history, and sunshine for the whole family!

Linda’s review made our day. She recommended touring the Hackley and Hume Historic Site and highlighted Terry’s expertis...
08/10/2026

Linda’s review made our day. She recommended touring the Hackley and Hume Historic Site and highlighted Terry’s expertise during her visit.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to explore Muskegon’s past, a guided tour is a great place to start.

Address

484 W Webster Avenue
Muskegon, MI
49440

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 4pm
Thursday 10am - 4pm
Friday 10am - 4pm
Saturday 10am - 4pm
Sunday 1pm - 4pm

Telephone

(231) 722-7578

Website

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