McFadden-Ross House
Explore Dearborn's military and local history at the McFadden-Ross House, a furnished 19th-century commandant's quarters offering free admission.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
McFadden-Ross House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Dearborn's military and local history at the McFadden-Ross House, a furnished 19th-century commandant's quarters offering free admission.
"A gem of Dearborn, with patient, friendly, & knowledgeable staff perfect for visiting with schoolmates or family."
🎯 Free Admission, Donate Generously
Entry is free, but donations are crucial for upkeep. Consider contributing to preserve this local history! :heart:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring multiple historic buildings, so comfortable footwear is a must for a pleasant visit. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
McFadden-Ross House Parlor
McFadden-Ross House
Discover 19th-century leisure items and learn about the Ross family's life in this beautifully furnished historic room.
Richard Gardner House
Brady Street Campus
Step back in time to an 1830s pioneer homestead, offering a vivid look at early Dearborn life.
Dearborn Arsenal Commandants Quarters
2 blocks from Brady Street Campus
Explore the history of military life in Dearborn at this 1834 building, a key part of the area's heritage.
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Planning Your Visit
Free Admission & Donations Welcome
Explore Multiple Historic Buildings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission, Donate Generously
Entry is free, but donations are crucial for upkeep. Consider contributing to preserve this local history! :heart:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring multiple historic buildings, so comfortable footwear is a must for a pleasant visit. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check for Special Events
The museum hosts vintage sales and changing exhibits. Check their schedule for unique experiences! :calendar:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Exploration
There's a dedicated children's play area and interactive exhibits that kids love. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission, Donate Generously
Entry is free, but donations are crucial for upkeep. Consider contributing to preserve this local history! :heart:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring multiple historic buildings, so comfortable footwear is a must for a pleasant visit. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check for Special Events
The museum hosts vintage sales and changing exhibits. Check their schedule for unique experiences! :calendar:
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Exploration
There's a dedicated children's play area and interactive exhibits that kids love. :child:
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is free and convenient, making your visit hassle-free. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the McFadden-Ross House for its historical significance and welcoming atmosphere, highlighting knowledgeable staff and family-friendly features. While some find the venue small, the free admission and donation-based model make it an accessible gem for learning about Dearborn's past. Occasional events like vintage sales add to its appeal, though pricing at these can sometimes be a point of contention.
"Smaller but very nice museum. Amanda was our guide, very knowledgeable, friendly, helpful. Some great early history of Dearborn. No charge, please leave donation. Free parking."
Yakknute Knute
"The Brady Street campus consists of the McFadden Ross House, an 1839 building renovated into a house in the 1880s and the 1832 Richard Gardner house, a pioneer homestead. The Commandants Quarters, an 1834 Dearborn Arsenal building is 2 blocks down the road. Tours are available of each building. The McFadden Ross house houses the research archives, a meeting room, some small changing exhibit spaces, the gift shop and a childrens play area. The Gardner house is a period house set up to reflect an 1830s pioneer home. The buildings are currently undergoing updating and are improving every day."
Tyler Moll
"This is a great place to learn more about our history. The kids loved it and the staff was very welcoming and happy to answer any questions. I would definitely recommend this place"
Visa C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The McFadden-Ross House is located on Brady Street in Dearborn, Michigan. It's part of a campus that includes other historic buildings. Free parking is available on-site, making it easily accessible by car.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in the provided content, Dearborn is served by public transit. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most direct routes to the Brady Street area.
Free parking is available at the McFadden-Ross House and its associated historic sites, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the McFadden-Ross House is free. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the historic buildings and exhibits.
Yes, tours are available for the McFadden-Ross House, the Richard Gardner House, and the Dearborn Arsenal Commandants Quarters, offering in-depth insights into local history.
Operating hours can vary, especially for specific buildings or during special events like vintage sales. It's recommended to check the official Dearborn Historical Museum schedule for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! The McFadden-Ross House often hosts special events, such as vintage sales, which offer unique opportunities to experience the museum and its grounds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The McFadden-Ross House features research archives, a meeting room, changing exhibit spaces, a gift shop, and a children's play area. It showcases local and military history.
Yes, the McFadden-Ross House is very family-friendly, with a dedicated children's play area and interactive exhibits that kids enjoy. The staff is welcoming and happy to answer questions.
The McFadden-Ross House is a 19th-century military commandant's quarters that has been renovated to showcase local and military history, offering a glimpse into Dearborn's past.
Yes, the Brady Street campus includes the 1832 Richard Gardner House (a pioneer homestead) and the 1834 Dearborn Arsenal Commandants Quarters, all offering distinct historical perspectives.
Expect changing exhibits that highlight local history, military heritage, and specific aspects of Dearborn life, such as 19th-century leisure items.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use inside the McFadden-Ross House, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially in exhibit areas.
The furnished rooms, historic architecture, and the grounds of the McFadden-Ross House and surrounding buildings offer many picturesque opportunities. The vintage sales can also provide unique photo subjects. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧👦 Families with Kids
Beyond the McFadden-Ross House itself, exploring the Richard Gardner House as a pioneer homestead can spark imagination about different ways of life. The free admission and ample free parking also make it a budget-friendly outing for families looking to explore local history without breaking the bank.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring other free or low-cost attractions in Dearborn, or pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. The availability of free parking further reduces expenses, making it an accessible and enjoyable historical experience for those mindful of their spending.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Dearborn's Past
Beyond the McFadden-Ross House, the Brady Street campus extends the historical narrative. The 1832 Richard Gardner House offers a look into pioneer life, meticulously set up as an 1830s homestead. A short distance away, the 1834 Dearborn Arsenal Commandants Quarters provides further context on the military presence in the region. Together, these buildings paint a comprehensive picture of Dearborn's evolution from its early settlement days to its industrial prominence.
Community feedback highlights the welcoming nature of the staff and the educational value of the sites. Visitors often praise the knowledgeable guides and the interactive elements that make history engaging for all ages. The museum's ongoing updates ensure that these historic structures are preserved and continue to tell their stories for generations to come.
Community Events and Engagement
These events often feature local vendors and can offer a lively atmosphere, though some visitors have noted that prices can sometimes be high. Nevertheless, the opportunity to experience the grounds during these special occasions adds another layer to the museum's appeal. The museum's commitment to showcasing different facets of history, from 19th-century leisure to the impact of industries like Ford Motor Company, is evident in its programming.
The positive interactions with staff are frequently mentioned in reviews, emphasizing their friendliness and willingness to share information. This community-focused approach makes the McFadden-Ross House a cherished local landmark, encouraging repeat visits and fostering a sense of shared history.
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