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State Historic Preservation Office
The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) evaluates, protects and promotes Michigan’s historic built environment and archaeological sites. We lead this effort by helping property owners, developers, and local and state agencies identify and seize opportunities to celebrate and rehabilitate historic places that define local communities and make our state uniquely Michigan.
SHPO staff work in a hybrid environment and are most easily accessible by direct email. Looking to do research? As of February 27, 2025 our process has changed as we begin to allow users to access our new online CRIS database. Section 106 applications may be submitted electronically. General inquiries may be sent to [email protected]. We invite you to explore our Programs and Services below to learn more about historic preservation in Michigan.
October is Michigan Archaeology Month!
Every October we recognize the unique history and pre-history of the place we call home by celebrating Michigan Archaeology Month! Archaeology-focused events are planned across the state. You can also dig in to explore Michigan's history with online activities, links, maps and more at our virtual Michigan Archaeology Month webpage!
Dig in to archaeology month!
The Future of Preservation in Michigan
We're charting the course for the future of historic preservation in Michigan! Throughout 2025, we're gathering feedback about what preservation goals and priorities should be considered for the years 2027-2034. A series of regional and virtual public workshops took place across Michigan during the summer of 2025 to allow citizens an opportunity to offer their ideas and input. This will be used to inform Michigan's next Statewide Historic Preservation Plan.
Click the link below to learn more about this planning effort.
Twenty-Nine Bells: Remembering the Edmund Fitzgerald
On November 9, 1975, the lake freighter Edmund Fitzgerald steamed out of the harbor at Superior, Wisconsin, with a cargo of iron ore bound for Detroit. The following evening, in a ferocious storm, the Fitzgerald sank in eastern Lake Superior, without a distress call. All 29 crew members perished, devastating the lives of their families, friends, and fellow sailors.
The Great Lakes and Great Lakes Shipping are a fundamental part of Michigan's history. The preservation of shipwrecks, such as the Edmund Fitzgerald, is important so archaeologists can better understand the lifeway of the people who built, operated, and went down with the ship. The 2025 Michigan Archaeology Poster and this webpage explore the preservation of shipwrecks and honor the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
