The Historical Society of Saginaw County traces its origins to early organizational efforts in 1938. The Society existed in various forms without a physical presence in the community until June 1959. The Society was reorganized under the leadership of Louis W. Doll and meetings were held at the Saginaw Art Museum and later at Hoyt Library. In 1961, a separate organization was formed to promote the creation of a history museum, but by 1962 the two groups had merged into one with a firm commitment to pen a museum. In July 1964, the Historical Society of Saginaw County was incorporated. On January 14, 1967, the Passolt House at 1105 S. Jefferson St. in Saginaw became the first site of a history museum for Saginaw County.
tower and circular staircase were
reopened after 40 years. Supported by a county millage, the Historical Society of Saginaw County has operated the building since 1992. Included in the Society's mission is the primary goal to preserve, maintain and interpret this magnificent and enchanting "Chateau" for the benefit of Saginaw County and its people, all Michigan residents and visitors alike.
The Society's focus changed dramatically with the addition of the responsibility for the Castle building and with the successful passage of the millage vote. The 61,000+ sq. ft. building includes exhibit space, a multi-purpose function room, a library and archives, offices and workrooms, meeting spaces, archaeology laboratory and archaeological repository. The Society's material culture collections (those not on exhibit) are housed in a separate nearby building. The Society continues to collect, preserve and interpret the material culture of Saginaw county history but it has also moved actively into the preservation of the Castle building itself and the interpretation of its architectural and functional history.
