DOWAGIAC — The newly renovated Dowagiac Area History Museum with more than 4,000 square feet of exhibits focuses mainly on Dowagiac, Cass County and Sister Lakes. It covers history from the American Indians all the way to current events.

The Dowagiac Area History Museum has three stories.

The lower level has history on the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi and locals who made history, such as Chris Taylor who was from Dowagiac and wrestled in the Olympics in 1972.

There are also artifacts from pilots, veterans, journalists and more who were from the area.

On the first floor, history on the industry of Dowagiac, such as Round Oak Stoves and Heddon Lures were on display.

On the second floor, there is more Dowagiac history on businesses, colleges and immigrants.

There is also a temporary gallery that rotates every so often.

Before moving to its current location in 2003, the Dowagiac Area History Museum was at Southwestern Michigan College for decades.

 

Photos by Emily Sobecki