The National Museum of the Great Lakes and Geo. Gradel Co. welcomes guests to explore the maritime history of the Great Lakes region through exhibits dedicated to the most famous freighter Col. James M. Schoonmaker, and participate in a unique holiday tradition as Santa arrives at the museum’s dock to deliver Christmas trees on December 2nd, thanks to the University of Toledo Medical Center’s generous support.
The National Museum of the Great Lakes was established in 1988 by the Friends of the Great Lakes Foundation. In 2004, the Museum moved to its current location on the East Bank of the Maumee River. The Museum was founded to interpret and commemorate the history of the Great Lakes.
Exhibits
The National Museum of the Great Lakes interprets the maritime history of the Great Lakes region. It is home to the Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship, one of the last surviving freighters from the early 20th century. The Museum features a Hall of Flags Exhibit, a permanent environmental exhibit on the Great Lakes, and an exhibit on the Col. James M. Schoonmaker. The Museum also has changing exhibits on the history of the Great Lakes. The Museum’s library and archival collection is open to researchers by appointment. The Museum Shop features items related to Great Lakes history.
The National Museum of the Great Lakes is a non-profit museum located on the East Bank of the Maumee River in Toledo, Ohio. The Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It is open to the public Tuesday thru Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 pm.
The Museum collects, preserves, and interprets the history of the Great Lakes region. It is a member of the Great Lakes Museums Collaborative. The Museum is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, a member of the North American Reciprocal Museum program, and a member of the Ohio Museums Association.
History
UTMC is proud to take a holistic approach to health and quality of life, allowing the community to participate in meaningful activities with their loved ones.
Experience the Annual East Toledo Holiday Parade
The National Museum of the Great Lakes is thrilled to partner with East Toledo Family Center, Family House, Lucas County Children’s Services, and Sylvania Area Family Services for a day full of holiday fun. The 51st Annual East Toledo Holiday Parade will kick off at 11 a.m. on South Ravine Parkway, ending at Metroparks Toledo’s new Glass City Enrichment Center. After an exciting parade, guests are encouraged to make their way to the Museum where Santa and a boatload of Christmas Trees await them in front of the Museum Tug Ohio.
The Museum is proud to offer the opportunity for guests to purchase a tree or make a donation, and those interested in receiving a donated tree may reach out to one of their recipient partners or call 2-1-1. For more information, please visit nmgl.org or call 419-214-5000.
