Detroit and the surroundings areas are filled with history and museums that tell the stories of our past. There’s the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Motown Museum, and the Detroit Historical Museum, just to name a few. However, did you know there’s a hidden gem in Ann Arbor that’s giving a snapshot of a camera company that once called Tree Town home?
The Argus Museum shares the history of the Argus Company, which made cameras and photographic equipment. Argus Museum board member Jared Haas explained that the Argus Company was founded in 1931 by men who wanted to create jobs during the Great Depression. It started as a radio company, but in 1939, Argus released its first camera called the Argus A. According to Haas, the Argus A is famous for popularizing modern 35 mm photography or candid photography across America.
When visitors step inside the Argus Museum they can see a snapshot of the Argus Company’s history through collections of cameras, photographs, slide projectors, and more.
The Argus Museum is located on the floor of 525 West William Street in Ann Arbor. Watch the video above to learn more about the museum and what you can find inside.