$300,000 donation starts maritime museum fundraising campaign

The Mason County Historical Society has started its fundraising campaign for the planned Port of Ludington Maritime Museum to be created in the former U.S. Coast Guard Station on the channel in downtown Ludington. Everyone can read about and view the terrific plans for the museum at www.ludingtonmaritimemuseum.org. The website for the Maritime Museum planned for Ludington was launched recently and provides a very detailed look at the plans for the building renovation as well as the many exhibits that will lift up and tell the story of the carferry history, the harbor history and the history of the Coast Guard’s presence in Ludington. Forms can be downloaded for making a donation or pledge; or donations can be made directly on line from thecontribute page on the website.

The fundraising committee is pleased to announce a $300,000.00 donation from the Birtwistle Family Foundation for the creation of the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum. Jolly Birtwistle and her late husband, Don Birtwistle, have been longtime supporters of the Mason County Historical Society. With this Birtwistle Family Foundation donation, Jolly wishes to nurture the desire of her late husband, Don, to see a Maritime Museum become a reality for Ludington. She encourages others to “catch the passion” and donate towards this outstanding project.

For further information or to arrange a private showing of a DVD outlining the plans for the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, please contact Ron Wood at 231-499-1235; 231-843-4808; or email atinfo@ludingtonmaritimemuseum.org. Mailing address is Maritime Museum Project, 1687 S. Lakeshore Drive, Ludington, MI 49431