A lively reception among the hall’s historical exhibits.
Former Gov. Rick Snyder conducted a press conference at the facility.
FACILITY UPDATE»
REV IT UP
DEARBORN’S AUTOMOTIVE HALL OF FAME INVITES GUESTS TO CELEBRATE ALONGSIDE HISTORIC AUTO GIANTS. B Y M E G A N E K S T R A N D THE HISTORY-LACED AUTOMOTIVE HALL OF FAME offers an immersive experience for guests to get close with the Fords, Dodges and other famous industry legends.
“We’re a unique, automotive-themed museum with contemporary architecture that provides an event space that’s different from anything else in the metropolitan Detroit area,” says Kathy Bastien, special events manager. In celebration of the success and history of the motor vehicle industry, the Automotive Hall of Fame honors the men and women whose innovative contributions have revolutionized the American way of life. Although the museum’s Dearborn location opened in 1997, the Automotive Hall of Fame’s history dates back to 1939. Called “Automobile Old Timers” back then, this original group took it upon themselves to perpetrate and honor the success of automotive innovators. Located adjacent to the Henry Ford Museum, the 25,000-square-foot contemporary structure provides spaces for a variety of events. The facility can accommodate up to 350 people and includes access to a large ceremony space, auditorium, outdoor courtyard and 35-person conference room. Events can even be hosted within the exhibits. For those looking to rev it up, the museum offers an interactive strolling dinner option in which guests can browse the historical exhibits during their meal. The private, nonprofit organization has hosted events from auto summits and seminars to bar mitzvahs and alumni functions. The Hall of Fame continues to honor the past and future of automotive innovation internationally and locally. In 2016, for example, it was the backdrop for then Gov. Rick Snyder as he signed a group of bills that helped to place Michigan as a future leader in the development and testing of self-driving vehicles. Radiating a theme of innovation and creativity, the facility is an inspiring museum and venue, says Kerry Doyle, the Hall of Fame’s marketing director. “Our mandate is to increase the public’s understanding of the contribution that the international motor vehicle industry has had on our freedom of personal mobility and on our high standard of living. In the process of preserving international motor vehicle industry history, the Hall of Fame is dedicated to shaping a better future for all.”
Get Connected AUTOMOTIVE HALL OF FAME automotivehalloffame.org | 313.240.4000
P H OTO S : JA S O N LO U D E R M I L K P H OTO G R A P H Y; ( O P P O S I T E ) M A R TA P E R E Z P H O T O G R A P H Y
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