Detroit is spending the fall listening, learning and celebrating. In nearby Dearborn, The Henry Ford presents Celebrate Indigenous History, a season of special programs running from October 9 through November 30, 2026, in Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and Greenfield Village, open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The centerpiece is a collections spotlight, Conflicting Connections: Native Nations and the Revolution, on view October 10 through November 30 near the With Liberty and Justice for All exhibition. Original letters from the museum’s collections — including one written by Thayendanegea (Joseph Brant) to James Monroe on November 29, 1784 — open a window onto the often-overlooked role of Native nations during the American Revolution and how they shaped the new United States.
November brings a full calendar of highlights. A Story Stroll, This Land: The History of the Land We’re On, runs November 1–30, and families can enjoy a reading of Berry Song by Michaela Goade. Author David Treuer speaks on November 7 at 2 p.m. in the Anderson Theater. On November 15, Joe Reilly & The Community Gardeners and the All Nations Dancers perform in Museum Plaza at 12–12:45 p.m. and 2–2:45 p.m., with an Artifacts in Focus session from 1 to 2 p.m.
The Henry Ford says the celebration reflects its commitment to deepening its relationship with Indigenous communities — and for Detroit-area visitors, it is a joyful, thoughtful way to spend a fall day. Programming is included with museum or village admission.
Photo: Greenfield Village at The Henry Ford, Dearborn — Wikimedia Commons
