One of Muskegon’s best historic sites is a division of Lakeshore Museum Center, the Hackley and Hume Historic Site. The museum is an ode to the history of Muskegon and features this renowned site that has played a significant role in the city’s history.
Charles Hackley is a famous personality in Muskegon and is known for his philanthropic contributions to the city. Hackley ran a lumbering company with his business partner, Thomas Hume, and eventually diversified into other businesses in the finance and industrial sectors. Such was the bond between the two that Hackley and Hume built houses on plots next to each other. The houses have been restored over the years without tampering with the original foundation.
The exteriors of both houses went against the aesthetic that was followed in the 1800s and are yet marveled at. Both houses were designed by David S.Hopkins and feature different themes in the interiors and exteriors.
Hopkins even designed a City Barn for the families. The City Barn space, where horses and cattle were held, was shared by members of the Hackley and Hume households. The City Barn looked like an amalgamation of both the houses as it featured distinctive design elements from the houses.
Hackley House was heavily inspired by Victorian architecture. It stands at three stories and has an irregular silhouette. The windows do not follow a standard shape either; some are in the shape of a horseshoe, some square, and others circular. The interiors are luxurious, adorned with embellished furniture and filled with shiny ornaments. You can find small pieces of fine craftsmanship and royal curtains that drape the odd glass windows all over the house.
Hume House stands on an opposite spectrum to Hackley House. Although it also features a 14-color palette on its exterior, the structure is more traditional. Simple geometric tiles and a charming library are some of the notable characteristics of the Hume House.
There is a visible difference in the grandeur of both houses. This was because Hackley was the senior partner and owned 75% of the business. On the other hand, Hume had worked up the ranks and reached a senior position, after which Hackley gave him the opportunity to become a partner. They remained good friends and partners despite this power dynamic.
The Hackley and Hume Historic Site comes with a guided tour, in case you are interested in knowing more about its history. During the summer months, the museum holds games and summer activities on the site’s lawns.
Other Attractions Near Hackley and Hume Historic Site
Lakeshore Museum Center has many more activities and historic sites that you can explore. The museum aims to educate its visitors about the culture and history of Muskegon. This is done through hands-on activities and interesting on-site visits.
Muskegon Museum of History and Science
Muskegon Museum of History and Science is one such attraction in Lakeshore Museum Center. It uses modern ways to explain historic evolutions. They host various activities such open-house style activities, interactive exhibits, and special events for adults and families. Now, the museum’s STEM learning center is also operational.
The entrance charge for non-Muskegon County residents is a nominal amount of $5 and it is free for Muskegon County Residents. The museum is operational throughout the year between 10 AM and 4 PM, except on Sundays. The museum also has a store that offers souvenirs.
Muskegon Historic Museum
Muskegon Historic Museum is also one of Lakeshore Museum Center’s attractions and aims to educate residents and visitors about the evolution of business and industrial settings in the city over the years. This is done through live models of steam engine artifacts from multiple companies.
We hope this guide helped you plan a perfect itinerary for your Muskegon visit. When you visit the Hackley and Hume Historic Site, make sure you make a stop and shop with us at Body and Mind.
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