Who We Are
Douglas has been known as the 'Village of Friendliness' since 1870. Today our small town charm and local hospitality are still Pure Michigan
and we are supported by commitments from an active local citizenry who are dedicated to the preservation of the natural landscape and
historical landmarks. We are close neighbors to the City of Saugatuck, located at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River at Lake Michigan and
separated by our shared harbor. The water has dictated the local building patterns and allowed for a picturesque array of cottages, hotels,
marinas, launches and city parks to develop along its edges. Downtown Douglas is situated within blocks of Lake Michigan and the sweeping
dunes that have made our community a consistent winner of national awards designations and top ten lists. So spectacular was this visual
array of land, wetlands, harbor, dunes, river and lake that the Ox-Bow School of Art opened its doors more than 100 years ago and continues
to be a cultural influence today. Downtown Douglas is one of many gems within this landscape, but we hope you'll take an afternoon, a week-
end or an entire summer to explore what we have to offer and become part of the Village of Friendliness!
The Douglas Walking Tour
A self-guided tour of historic Douglas. Tour maps available at front of Village Hall on Center Street or at the Museum.
Trolley Tour of historic Douglas
Each Thursday in August during the 'Douglas Socials.'
Museum Exhibitions
The Saugatuck Douglas Museum is housed in the historic former Village of Saugatuck Pump House on the scenic west bank of
the Kalamazoo River at the foot of Mt. Baldhead. The Museum mounts one major exhibition annually. This year's exhibit is titled,
"Summertime ... A Century of Leisure at the Lake Michigan Shore". The exhibition focuses on ten thematic stories to represent the
unfolding history of our vacation economy, told from the viewpoints of both the visitors drawn here to enjoy our environment
and the local folks who work to ensure their satisfaction."The Museum is open Noon to 4pm daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day and
weekends in September and October. Admission is free and there is ample parking.
Publications
The Society's well-known award winning publications program has published many books documenting local history.
Books are available at the Museum gift shop with more details on the Society's web site Publications page.
Tuesday Talks
Held weekly at the Old School House on Center Street in Douglas through July and August, the lectures
are free and open to the public. Talks begin each Tuesday at 11am and center on local history.
Monthly Programs
Programs are held the second Wednesday of every month at various locations in Saugatuck.
Admission is free and refreshments are provided.
Douglas History Display
Learn more about the history of Douglas. Local history display located in the conference room in the Douglas City Hall.
Content provided by the Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society.
