The story of our community started well before 1784, when Francois Navarre became the first European to settle in Monroe. Many believe Native Americans traversed this land in the 16th and 17th centuries searching for food. French legends like that of Le Feu Follet continue to pass from generation to generation.  

Without preservation, these stories would be forever lost. That's where the history - and mission, you might say - of the Monroe County Historical Society begins.

The Society was founded in 1938 by a group of citizens who recognized Monroe as special, perhaps even important. They sought to safeguard the past and build upon the future. 

More than 75 years later, MCHS is proud of its ongoing work in and around Monroe. We remain dedicated to bridging yesterday with today, and thanks to the collective efforts of others, have created cultural centers, restored buildings, achieved national recognition for the site of the 1813 Battle of Frenchtown, and preserved sites that otherwise would have perished. In short, we have met the challenge of those who, decades earlier, asked that we claim Monroe's story for all to share.