The Michigan Maritime Museum is pleased to open its 2026 Lecture Series with History of the Great Lakes in 12 Shipwrecks, presented by maritime historian, author, and underwater explorer Valerie van Heest on Wednesday, February 25 at 6:30 PM.
In celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary, van Heest debuts a compelling new multimedia program exploring twelve historic shipwrecks that collectively illustrate the evolution of commercial transportation on the Great Lakes. These stories not only highlight pivotal events leading to America’s founding but also trace how two and a half centuries of change have shaped both the North American landscape and the shipping industry.
Valerie van Heest is an acclaimed underwater explorer and historian involved in the discovery and archaeological documentation of numerous Great Lakes shipwrecks. Blending her maritime passion with her professional writing and design background, she shares her work through award-winning books, films, lectures, and museum exhibits that educate, entertain, and inspire. She is a member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame and a recipient of a Michigan State History Award for her efforts in preserving the state’s submerged maritime heritage.
Speaker Contact Info:
Valerie van Heest
616-566-6009
Tickets for this event are FREE for Museum members and $10 for non-members. Doors open at
6:00 PM, and tickets may be purchased online, by phone, or in person.
The Michigan Maritime Museum Lecture Series is made possible through the generous support of the Nielsen-Wells Grant Fund and Mike & Susan Smith. Recorded and virtual viewing of many lectures is made possible thanks to the generous support of Steve & Emily Holt.
Event Details
What: History of the Great Lakes in 12 Shipwrecks
When: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 6:30 PM
Where: Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Avenue, South Haven, MI
Tickets: Free for Museum members | $10 for non-members
Reservations: 269-637-8078 or MichiganMaritimeMuseum.org/events
