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Bay County Historical Museum

Introduction

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The museum, which offers an extensive research library and several feature galleries, is located in a former 1910 National Guard Armory. The building is listed on the state and national historic registers. The highlight of the museum is a 3,700 square-foot gallery that allows visitors to walk through chronological exhibits that trace the history of Bay County from before European contact through the present. The museum also offers a small theater that plays eight documentaries related to various themes and time periods in the county's history. Another highlight of the museum is a special gallery dedicated to the region's maritime history.


Images

  • The museum has been located in this historic armory since 1988. The armory was completed in 1910-just nine years prior to the formation of the historical society.
  • This historic photo of the armory shows how the building has changed over time.

Backstory and Context

Text-to-speech Audio

Those interested in learning more about their ancestors, or those who want to explore the region's history in greater depth than the exhibits allow, the museum operates a special research library. Butterfield Memorial Research Library is open daily and includes original manuscripts, maps, diaries, and resources for genealogists. 

Additional Information