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All the United States Michigan Ann Arbor Argus Museum

Argus Museum

One of the camera company's former manufacturing buildings is now a museum dedicated to its history.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Added By
Cheryl Chidester
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Early Argus model camera - Argus A   cabchidester / Atlas Obscura User
Early Argus model camera - Argus A   cabchidester / Atlas Obscura User
Iconic Argus Matchmatic 35mm camera   cabchidester / Atlas Obscura User
Argus Museum   Dwight Burdette / CC BY-SA 3.0
Argus Museum Entrance   cabchidester / Atlas Obscura User
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About

The Argus Museum is a unique place that tells the story of a camera company, the people involved and showcases unique collections connected to Argus. Established in 1983, the Museum is housed on the second floor of the Argus I Building, which was one of the company’s manufacturing facilities and is situated in Ann Arbor's Old West Side neighborhood.

Argus was the second-largest manufacturer and distributor of camera equipment into the mid-1950s. Significant photographic collections were created using Argus cameras and their products of the 1940s and 1950s are often viewed as iconic classic American-made cameras. Additionally, its contributions to World War II’s Arsenal of Democracy were significant. 

The Museum’s displays include rare models and prototypes of photography and military equipment, photographs and personal items of those associated with the company. The museum hosts photography exhibitions featuring local and regional artists, particularly those who create images using film. The museum also hosts meetings, tours, presentations, book signings, and an annual conference. There’s a lot to discover within this small space.

Related Tags

Cameras Museums And Collections Photography

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The Argus Building has a dedicated parking lot and free parking is hard to come by in Ann Arbor!

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Added By

cabchidester

Edited By

stevenrhaney, Michelle Cassidy

  • stevenrhaney
  • Michelle Cassidy

Published

August 26, 2022

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Argus Museum
535 West William St
Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103
United States
42.277378, -83.754126
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