Business Details
Preserving Flint's Victorian Heritage Since 1885
Founded in 1885, our historic house museum preserves the legacy of Robert J. Whaley and Mary McFarlan-Whaley while showcasing Flint's transformation during the Victorian era. Our team maintains the home's original architecture and artifacts, offering guided tours that highlight the family's contributions to local institutions like the Whaley Children's Center and McFarlan Home. We provide educational programs, public events, and private rentals to foster community engagement with Flint's heritage.Our staff and board of directors work year-round to ensure the preservation of this landmark, supported by grants from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. With over a century of historical significance, we remain committed to honoring the Whaleys' civic-minded legacy through accessible programming and cultural stewardship.
Services
Historic Tours
Event Rentals
Educational Programs
Community Outreach
Exhibitions
Collections Preservation
Highlights and features
- We offer guided tours of a fully preserved 1885 Victorian home with original artifacts.
- Our venue provides customizable private event spaces with historic ambiance.
- We maintain partnerships with local arts organizations for community enrichment.
- We offer educational programs aligned with Michigan's historical curriculum standards.
- Our staff includes certified historians specializing in 19th-century domestic architecture.
Services
Historic Tours
Explore Flint's Victorian-era history through guided tours of the fully preserved Whaley home. Our expert-led visits showcase original architecture, period furnishings, and family artifacts while explaining the home's role in local philanthropy. Tours last 75 minutes and accommodate groups of all sizes.
Event Rentals
Host weddings, corporate events, or private gatherings in our historic Victorian setting. Rental packages include access to multiple floors, period-appropriate tableware, and professional holiday decorations. Clients receive dedicated event coordination and flexible scheduling options for daytime or evening functions.
Educational Programs
Engage students with hands-on history lessons aligned with Michigan's educational standards. Our programs explore 19th-century domestic life, architectural evolution, and local philanthropy through artifact analysis and interactive demonstrations. Field trips include guided tours and age-appropriate activity kits for K-12 groups.
People
Justin Wetenhall
Executive Director
Overseeing daily operations and preservation efforts, Justin Wetenhall brings 15 years of museum management experience to our historic site. He specializes in Victorian architecture restoration and community engagement strategies.
Kelly Price
President
Board President Kelly Price contributes expertise in nonprofit governance and cultural programming. She has served on the board since 2015, focusing on expanding educational outreach and fundraising initiatives.
Questions
What are the museum's operating hours?
We offer private tours Tuesday-Friday 10am-4pm and open tours on first/3rd Saturdays 11am-2pm.
Can I rent the venue for a wedding?
Yes, we offer wedding packages including rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and receptions with holiday decorations available November-January.
What historical periods does the museum cover?
Our exhibits focus on Flint's development during the 1880s-1900s, showcasing Victorian domestic life and early automotive industry connections.
Are group tours available?
Group tours accommodate up to 25 visitors with customized content for school groups, senior centers, and special interest organizations.
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