Exploring Hill Auditorium's Role: Untold Stories of Michigan History

Rediscovering the Voices of Hill Auditorium

The backdrop of Hill Auditorium has seen countless performances and speeches, but many of its narratives remain untold. Recently, the Inclusive History Project (IHP) hosted an informative event at the Judy & Stanley Frankel Detroit Observatory, highlighting the forgotten voices and contested legacies that shape the auditorium's history. As part of the Bentley Historical Library’s Making Michigan series, this gathering aimed to illuminate the diverse histories that have echoed within Hill’s walls.

Engaging with History: What Hill Represents

Emily Lyon, an IHP research fellow, emphasized Hill Auditorium’s significance as a gathering place for students and community members alike. "It has always been more than just a performance venue; it’s a space where voices could rise up in significant political and cultural discourse," she stated. This rich history includes renowned figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Betty Friedan, whose presence reinforced the auditorium’s role as a site of activism and expression.

A Symbol of Change and Contestation

The event also showcased how Hill Auditorium has been at the center of many social movements, especially during the 20th century. For instance, in 1935, a highly publicized ban on the British Labour politician John Strachey led to protests, demonstrating the dynamic intersection of culture and politics on campus. Today's students, like LSA junior Evan Smyk, were surprised to learn how drastically the venue's purpose has shifted over time. "In its heyday, the auditorium was vibrant with student-led initiatives, which injected energy and diversity into the campus discourse that appears diluted now," he reflects.

The Shift From Student Initiative to University Control

Music professor Mark Clague, a principal investigator in the IHP, pointed out the changing identity of Hill over the decades. Once a center for student-led events, the auditorium now primarily hosts university ceremonies and concerts. "This shift has resulted in a loss of student initiative and community engagement that once characterized Hill," he noted. The changing functions of Hill are reflective of broader trends within university spaces that may prioritize institutional control over student agency.

Connecting with Ann Arbor: Community and Memory

Further amplifying the connection between the auditorium and the local community, the project leaders are inviting community members to share their personal stories related to Hill. These sessions aim to capture a more comprehensive understanding of the auditorium’s impact on both students and the wider Ann Arbor populace. "Community perspectives are crucial," says graduate researcher Ellen Lee. "They redefine what we consider to be inclusive history and promote the understanding that Hill belongs not only to the university but to everyone in the area."

The Road Ahead: Making History Visible

The researchers aim to share the outcomes of the project through formal presentations and displays that will be accessible to the public. By integrating personal stories with archival research, they hope to create a comprehensive narrative that honors the many voices previously overshadowed. As they work toward this goal, Lyon hopes those who have memories tied to Hill will come forward: "We encourage people to share because it's these narratives that enrich our understanding of the history within that space."

A Legacy Reimagined

The Inclusive History Project’s initiative emphasizes that Hill Auditorium is much more than a building; it represents a living history of activism, culture, and community. As the project continues to unfold, it promises to redefine how we understand the roles that art and performance play in societal narratives and encourages engagement with our past to empower the future.