About the Michigan Supreme Court Historical Society

Mission Statement:

The Michigan Supreme Court Historical Society, a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation, collects, preserves, and displays documents, records, and memorabilia relating to the Michigan Supreme Court and the other Courts of Michigan, promotes the study of the history of Michigan's courts, and seeks to increase public awareness of Michigan's legal heritage. The Society sponsors and conducts historical research, provides speakers and educational materials for students, and sponsors and provides publications, portraits and memorials, special events, and projects consistent with its mission.

There are currently about 300 members. To learn more about membership, including dues structure, click here.

Board Members

Hon. Dorothy Riley   Founder Wallace Riley   President Charles Rutherford   Vice President

Carl Herstein   Secretary Lawrence Nolan   Treasurer Carrie Pickett   Executive Director

Members

Hon. Fred Borchard   Hon. Patricia Boyle   Hon. Alfred Butzbaugh   Hon. Avern Cohn   Bruce Courtade   Peter Ellsworth   Hon. Michael Harrison

Matthew Herstein   John Jacobs   Ronald Keefe   Hon Frank Kelley   Hon. Denise Langford Morris   Hon. Charles Levin   Mary Massaron Ross

Michael Murray   John Reed   Richard Reed   Hon. James Ryan   Stephen Valentine, Jr.   Janet Welch

View the Directors Emeritus

History:

The Society was established in 1988 by (then) Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Dorothy Comstock Riley, who sought to preserve Court artifacts, collect memorabilia, and inform and educate the students and citizens of Michigan about their state’s judicial history.

Special Events:

The Society hosts portrait presentations, historical exhibits, and membership meetings. In affiliation with the State Bar of Michigan, the Society sponsors the Michigan Legal Milestone Program. Click here to read about some of our recent events.