Hackley & Hume Historic Site

The Hackley and Hume Historic Site is a magnificent monument to the "lumber baron" era, located in Muskegon, USA. This unique site consists of two opulent Victorian mansions built in the Queen Anne style for timber industry magnates Charles Hackley and Thomas Hume.

Built in the late 1880s, these homes captivate the imagination with their complex silhouettes featuring towers, bay windows, and carved porticos. Inside, visitors will find fully restored interiors that showcase the daily life of wealthy families during the 1890s and 1920s. Of particular value is the rich woodwork in cherry, oak, and walnut, complemented by exquisite stained glass and ceramic tiles.

The complex is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is one of Michigan's premier cultural attractions. In addition to the main houses, it includes the City Barn with exhibits and a gift shop, making it a comprehensive open-air museum.

Use the following contact information to plan your visit to the Hackley and Hume Historic Site. Please note that the site is part of a larger city museum network and is managed by the Lakeshore Museum Center.

Your immersion into history begins with a guided tour that takes you through the rooms of the two mansions. You will see authentic furniture, the owners' personal belongings, and incredible interior craftsmanship. In the Hackley House, be sure to notice the lavish hallway and fireplaces, while in the Hume House, the cozy parlors and library allow you to feel the spirit of a bygone era.

The site also features the City Barn, where you can browse additional exhibits and purchase commemorative gifts. During the warmer months, traditional outdoor games are often held on the lawn between the houses, making the visit engaging for both adults and children.

You can expand your itinerary by visiting the nearby Fire Barn Museum — a reconstruction of the city's first 1875 fire station — or stop by the Scolnik House, dedicated to the lives of ordinary families during the Great Depression. Additionally, special holiday tours are organized throughout the year, which are particularly popular during the Christmas season.

The complex is conveniently located in the heart of the historic downtown area at 484 W Webster Ave. If you are traveling by car, finding it is easy — on-site parking is provided for visitors. From the central part of the city, the attraction is just a few minutes' walk away, allowing you to enjoy views of the historic neighborhoods.

For those who prefer public transport, Muskegon city buses stop nearby. Additionally, the Muskegon County Airport is a 10–15 minute taxi ride away, making the site accessible for tourists arriving from other regions.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the life of Charles H. Hackley, who arrived in Muskegon in 1857 with almost no money in his pocket. Starting as a common laborer, by the early 20th century he had become the city's greatest philanthropist, donating over $6 million to public causes. His partner, Irish immigrant Thomas Hume, followed an equally impressive path from bookkeeper to co-owner of a logging empire.

The mansions were built between 1887 and 1889 on adjacent lots, based on designs by architect David S. Hopkins. During that era, the "lumber boom" in Michigan generated colossal wealth: Muskegon was the center for processing giant pines, and the local industry created more millionaires than the famous California Gold Rush. The buildings became a tangible embodiment of success for their owners.

After the magnates passed away, the houses served many purposes: at various times, they housed the Red Cross headquarters and even a daycare center. It wasn't until the 1970s that a large-scale academic restoration began. Today, the complex is a U.S. National Historic Landmark, with over a million dollars spent on its restoration to preserve the unique carvings by the Kelly Brothers and the authentic atmosphere of the late 19th century.

For a standard introduction to the complex, it is recommended to set aside 1.5 to 2 hours. The main guided tour of the two mansions lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but you should leave extra time to walk the grounds and explore the outbuildings.

If you also decide to visit the City Barn, which houses exhibits and a shop, or plan to participate in historical outdoor games, it is better to plan for about 3 hours. This will allow you to examine the interior details without rushing and soak in the Victorian-era atmosphere.

The Hackley and Hume Historic Site operates seasonally: it is open to the public from May to October. During the winter period, regular tours are typically not held, except for pre-announced holiday events.

As the exact schedule depends on the season and current Lakeshore Museum Center programming, visitors are strongly encouraged to check the official website before their trip. Currently, the complex may be in its off-season closure period.

Exploring the area around the Hackley and Hume Historic Site allows for a deeper dive into Muskegon's "Golden Age." Many other iconic sites are located nearby, completing the city's historical picture.