Preserving a Legacy
The Museum has kept its primary strategic emphasis on the Museum’s programmatic mission of education, preservation and interpretation as it developed a master plan for expansion. The acquisition of the adjacent Jensen Property could not have been a better fit for that plan. The location of the former Jensen’s Fishery, the Jensen Property has a long history of Great Lakes maritime heritage. That property along with the existing Museum campus boasts a history that goes back at least 150 years. The expansion of the Museum property and proposed development/restoration of the shoreline is a major step forward for the growth of the Museum, but also for the guaranteed preservation of historically significant waterfront.
The history of South Haven harbor is a microcosm of small ports all over the Great Lakes. The Museum’s linchpin position in the Maritime District to showcase the rich history of the Great Lakes through exhibits, artifacts, historic vessels, and living history in an authentic harbor setting already make it a unique destination. The expansion of property and spaces will allow visitors, students, researchers, collaborators, and the community to become stewards of history–preserving heritage for generations to come.

