The Ada Historical Society preserves, shares and celebrates the unique history of the Ada community.
The Ada Historical Society was first formed in 1974 by a group of local women interested in Ada’s rich historical roots. Today the Society welcomes all to join in efforts to preserve, share, and celebrate Ada’s unique heritage.
On-going projects of the society include: operating the Averill Historical Museum in a facility owned by Ada Township, presenting compelling programming and events open to all, collecting and preserving artifacts, collecting and digitizing oral histories from long-time Ada residents, collecting and digitizing the large photograph collection, and offering permanent and temporary exhibits on Ada history.
The Ada History Center
Beginning in the 1970’s, the Society met in the Ada Township Hall. After years of hard work, along with the generosity of Frank Averill, Floyd Chaffee, and others who donated money, labor, and artifacts, the Averill Historical Museum of Ada opened on August 14, 1999.
Educational programming and events that are open to the public take place at the museum. An 1870s barn was moved down Thornapple River Drive onto museum property and renovated to showcase farming artifacts.
Events and Programming
We love to explore all things Ada! The Society offers a variety of meaningful events and programs connecting the past and the present. Annual offerings include: lectures, classes, musical concerts, holiday wreath sales, a garden event, and more.
The Centennial Properties program recognizes Ada Township homes and properties that are over 100 years old. AHS is firmly dedicated to celebrating these treasures of our heritage that add value to the community today. Call 616-676-9346 for more information.
Gardens
The History Center gardens and grounds grow abundantly with the help of several dedicated master gardeners and volunteers. We welcome you to enjoy the farm garden, shade garden, pollinator garden, and Vader dahlia garden.
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Volunteer Opportunities
Ada Historical Society is a non-profit cultural organization with a mission to preserve, share, and celebrate the unique history of the Ada community. Volunteers are our heart and soul. If you care about Ada too, we’d love to work with you.
AHS offers many ways to connect – for long-time residents or those new to the area – in working with the artifacts, creating and hosting programming and events, school visits, docenting, gardening, and so much more. No experience necessary, please give us a call 616-676-9346 or email AdaHistoryCenter@gmail.com.
What People Are Saying…
“I always liked history...But I LOVE family history. My husband’s family settled in Ada MI in 1902 on a farm on Ada Dr, over-looking the village. My husband spent most of his childhood life living in or around Ada, as did his extended family. I enjoy seeing and working with much of their and other families' material and verbal history shared at the museum.”
— Carol P.
“When I retired I did crafts and hobbies for three months and decided I needed to do something else. I had always wanted to be a docent so my dream has been fulfilled. I really enjoy leading groups of children and adults teaching them our area history.”
— Marilyn T.
“New to me in 1988, Ada has always spoken to my spirit. Loved it then... love it today. Favorite memories are getting to know incredibly dedicated Society Board and community volunteers, AHS meaningful exhibits and programs, successful Capital Campaign, and renovations with resulting reinterpreted exhibits.”
— Barbara M.
Board Members
Bernard Veldkamp – President
Tom Mulligan – Vice President
Marilyn Thompson – Secretary
Art Kroon – Treasurer
Betty Jo Crosby
Marie Vierson
Marilyn DeGood
Margaret Idema
Jeanne Ferro
Frank Hoover
Sandra Sefton
Kristen Wildes – Museum Manager