Sturgis Historical Museum to reopen on June 5

Sturgis Historical Society officials are “delighted” that the Sturgis Historical Museum – At the Depot and Freight House will reopen soon.

The museum and freight house will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 5 and from noon to 4 p.m. on June 6, said Jenifer Blouin Policelli, director of the museum.

“We are delighted that we can finally reopen after being closed for so long,” she said.

The museum limited its accessibility in 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic reached St. Joseph County. Authorities decided in November to close the museum to the public until further notice, after the number of pandemics rose locally.

The museum conducted a historical “Experience Sturgis” scavenger hunt throughout the city. Policelli said the event was a success with young members of the community. Policelli said she was grateful for being able to keep Sturgis’ story high in people’s minds despite the restrictions.

Yet, she said, “it has been difficult not being able to do things in person.”

A special preview night will be held on June 4 for members of the Sturgis Historical Society.

After the opening weekend, normal hours will resume and continue until October 2 – 10 am to 5 pm each Thursday; 10 am-4pm every Friday; and 10 am-2pm every Saturday. The museum will also be available for private tours, by appointment.

Visitors to the depot can expect to see new exhibits on the city’s involvement in the Civil War, the Kirsch Society, the Sturgis Drive-In Theater and more.

Freight House will also be open, with a gift shop and an expansive model train room, run by the Sturgis Area Model Railroaders.

Sturgis Historical Society suggests a donation of $ 1 per visitor.

The resort is subject to all local, state and federal health mandates and guidelines regarding the pandemic, including masking and strengthening capacity limits.