A Legacy of Art: The Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum in Saginaw

Tucked away in the heart of mid-Michigan, Saginaw is a hidden gem bursting with art, history, and small-town charm. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a quick road trip stop, this riverside city offers plenty of surprises that make it worth the visit.

If you love art with a story, the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum is a spot you don’t want to skip. This free museum and outdoor sculpture garden celebrate the incredible career of Marshall M. Fredericks, often called “America’s Public Sculptor.”

Inside, you’ll find more than 200 of his creations — everything from towering public monuments to delicate figurative pieces that show off his signature style.

Beyond Fredericks’ own work, the museum keeps things fresh with rotating exhibits that bring in artists from around the world, making every visit a little different and always inspiring.

History of the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum

The story of the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum is one of friendship, art, and community vision. It all began in the 1930s, when Dorothy “Honey” Doan Arbury studied under Marshall Fredericks at Kingswood School in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

Decades later, their paths crossed again through her uncle, architect Alden B. Dow, sparking an idea that would bring Fredericks’ art to Saginaw Valley State University.

With the support of Honey and her husband, Ned, a stunning gallery opened in 1988 inside the Arbury Fine Arts Center — personally curated by Fredericks himself.

After his passing, the university inherited his tools, models, and papers, turning the gallery into a full museum by 1999.

Since then, expansions like the Sculptor’s Studio and the Petersen Sculpture Garden have made the museum a vibrant, nationally accredited destination.

Visitors can walk among the legacy of one of America’s great sculptors and feel the creative spirit that started it all.

About Marshall M. Fredericks

Marshall M. Fredericks was one of the most admired sculptors of the 20th century, celebrated for his monumental public works that blend beauty, emotion, and accessibility.

Born in Illinois in 1908 and raised in Ohio, he studied art in Cleveland before traveling to Europe to learn under Swedish sculptor Carl Milles, an experience that shaped his signature style.

After returning to Michigan, Fredericks taught at Cranbrook Academy of Art and went on to create more than 150 public sculptures found across the U.S. and abroad.

His best-known works — like The Spirit of Detroit, Cleveland’s Fountain of Eternal Life, and Freedom of the Human Spirit in New York — capture themes of hope, humanity, and faith.

Honored with numerous national and international awards, Fredericks lived in Birmingham, Michigan, until his death in 1998, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire visitors at the museum bearing his name.

The Spirit of Detroit

Few sculptures capture the soul of a city quite like The Spirit of Detroit. Created by Marshall M. Fredericks and dedicated on September 23, 1958, the iconic bronze figure sits proudly in front of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in downtown Detroit.

With one hand holding a golden orb symbolizing God and the other cradling a family, the statue represents faith, unity, and the enduring strength of Detroit’s people.

Over the decades, The Spirit of Detroit has become one of the city’s most beloved landmarks. It’s a gathering point for celebrations, civic pride, and even sports victories. The statue often dons a giant team jersey during big games!

Visiting the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum

Going to the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum couldn’t be easier or more affordable.

Admission is completely free, and visitors are welcome to explore the galleries and outdoor sculpture garden at their own pace during regular hours, Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

If you’d like a deeper dive into the art and stories behind the sculptures, guided tours are also free with an advance reservation. The museum closes on major holidays, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule before planning your trip.

Parking is also free and convenient, with several marked spaces near the entrance and along Fine Arts Drive. If those spots are full, additional parking is available in campus lots J and D.

Just set your GPS to “Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum, Saginaw Valley State University” and you’ll be on your way.

The Main Gallery

At the center of the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum is the Main Exhibit Gallery, a space that truly captures the spirit and scale of Fredericks’ work.

Inside, you’ll find an extraordinary collection of more than 200 sculptures, models, and molds that trace the evolution of his seven-decade career.

The gallery’s centerpiece is a breathtaking display of plaster molds, which Fredericks used to cast many of his most famous bronze works found in cities around the world.

What makes this space especially meaningful is that Fredericks himself helped design and install the exhibit, ensuring that each piece reflected his artistic vision.

Walking through the gallery feels like stepping into the sculptor’s creative process. You can almost imagine him shaping the plaster, refining each detail, and bringing his monumental ideas to life.

It’s an inspiring experience that offers visitors a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how some of America’s most iconic public sculptures were born.

Sculptor’s Studio

Just beyond the main gallery, the Sculptor’s Studio offers a fascinating glimpse into Marshall Fredericks’ creative world. This carefully recreated workspace showcases the very tools, materials, and equipment he used to bring his monumental sculptures to life.

From sketches and armatures to molds and casting tools, every detail helps visitors imagine the artistry, precision, and physical effort behind his work. The studio feels both intimate and inspiring — almost as if Fredericks just stepped out for a moment.

It’s a space where visitors can connect with the artist on a personal level and appreciate the craftsmanship that went into transforming raw materials into timeless works of art.

Jo Anne & Donald Petersen Sculpture Garden

After exploring the galleries inside, step outdoors into the Joann and Donald Petersen Sculpture Garden, where Fredericks’ art comes alive under Michigan’s open sky.

The garden features more than a dozen of his bronze sculptures, each one thoughtfully placed among the landscaped paths and green spaces surrounding the museum.

It’s the perfect spot to slow down, take in the details, and see how Fredericks’ work interacts with light and nature, just as he intended.

Plus, the garden’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a favorite for photographers, art lovers, and anyone looking to enjoy a quiet moment of reflection.

Temporary Exhibitions

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum keeps things fresh with a rotating lineup of temporary exhibitions that showcase artists from around the region and beyond.

These changing displays explore a wide range of themes — from contemporary sculpture and design to cultural storytelling and community art projects — offering something new to discover with every visit.

Whether you’re returning for a second look or visiting for the first time, the museum’s ever-evolving exhibits ensure there’s always something inspiring waiting inside.

The Virtual Museum Experience

Can’t make it to Saginaw just yet? The Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum brings the art to you with an impressive range of virtual experiences that let you explore Fredericks’ world from the comfort of home.

Virtual Exhibitions

Through the museum’s virtual exhibitions, you can browse beautifully curated digital galleries that showcase Fredericks’ sculptures, drawings, and past special exhibitions.

Each online exhibit includes high-quality images, insightful commentary, and behind-the-scenes stories that bring the artist’s creative process to life.

Virtual Activities

For those looking for something more interactive, the museum offers a variety of virtual activities — from art-making prompts and educational videos to family-friendly projects that encourage creativity and connection.

These online resources make it easy for you to engage with Fredericks’ work no matter where you are.

Virtual Tours

And, if you’d like the full museum experience, virtual tours are the next best thing to walking through the galleries in person.

The narrated tours guide you through the exhibits and sculpture garden, complete with clickable features and videos that share the stories behind key works.

The Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum Offers Even More

Beyond its galleries and sculpture gardens, the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum is also a place of learning, creativity, and community connection.

Through a variety of educational programs and hands-on experiences, the museum invites visitors of all ages to explore the art of sculpture in new and inspiring ways.

Learn and Research

Beyond its inspiring galleries and sculpture gardens, the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum is also a vibrant center for learning and creativity.

The museum proudly serves as an educational resource, offering hands-on opportunities that connect art, history, and imagination in meaningful ways.

Whether you’re visiting with a school group, a community organization, or simply exploring on your own, the museum’s educational programs invite you to see art not just as something to look at, but as something to experience.

Pre- and post-visit discussion guides, curriculum-based lessons, and interactive art activities help deepen understanding and spark curiosity across all ages.

Teleconference Program

For groups who can’t make the trip to Saginaw, the museum offers a fully interactive Teleconference Program that virtualizes the learning experience.

During this 90-minute session, museum staff lead participants through a multimedia presentation featuring images, videos, and even a behind-the-scenes look at the metal casting process Fredericks himself once described as “magic.”

The program concludes with a fun, hands-on art activity, such as sculpting with modeling compound or wire, ensuring that creativity remains at the heart of the experience, no matter the distance.

Boy Scout & Girl Scout Programs

For scouts looking to earn badges while exploring the world of art, the museum offers dynamic programs designed in collaboration with the Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan Council and Boy Scouts of America.

Throughout the year, Girl Scouts at every level can dive into projects that blend creativity, teamwork, and discovery.

Boy Scouts can work toward merit badges in Art, Sculpture, and Photography, guided by museum educators who make each session engaging and memorable.

These programs not only build artistic skills but also encourage confidence and curiosity, qualities that last long after the badges are earned.

Summer Art Camp

Every summer, the museum comes alive with the energy of young artists during its Summer Art Camp—a beloved tradition, now more than a decade strong.

Designed for ages 8 to 18, this week-long program gives students the chance to explore their creativity with the guidance of experienced art educators.

Each camper becomes an artist in their own right, experimenting with new materials, techniques, and ideas in a supportive, inspiring environment.

Parents and students alike rave about the experience, and it’s easy to see why. Once you’ve joined the camp, you’ll want to come back year after year.

Artist-in-Residence Program

Launched in 2015, the Artist-in-Residence Program brings contemporary artists to the museum to share their craft, ideas, and creative process with students, faculty, and the public.

Each residency offers something new — a collaborative installation, a workshop series, or an artist talk that sparks fresh dialogue about the role of art in today’s world.

For Saginaw Valley State University students, it’s a rare chance to learn directly from working artists. For the community, it’s an open invitation to witness creativity in action and see how the legacy of Marshall Fredericks continues to inspire new generations of makers.

Restaurants Near the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum

After exploring the galleries and sculpture gardens, you’ll find plenty of great dining options just a short drive from the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum.

Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, authentic Mexican flavors, or a cozy café experience, Saginaw’s local restaurants and others in the area offer something for every taste.

Mak’em Say Sumthin

4865 Fashion Square Mall, Saginaw
If you’re craving bold flavors and hearty portions, Mak’em Say Sumthin is a must-visit.

Known for its creative take on Southern-inspired comfort food, this locally loved spot serves up everything from crispy fried chicken and seasoned wings to loaded mac and cheese and signature sides.

The atmosphere is lively and welcoming — perfect for a casual lunch or dinner after your museum visit. With friendly service and food that truly lives up to its name, it’s no wonder this place has become a Saginaw favorite.

Casa Flores Taqueria & More

6907 Westside Saginaw Rd, Bay City
For authentic Mexican cuisine made with heart, head to Casa Flores Taqueria & More. This family-run restaurant is known for its flavorful tacos, burritos, and enchiladas — all made fresh to order.

Also, the menu features house specialties like fajitas and tamales, along with refreshing aguas frescas and homemade salsas. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax and refuel while enjoying a true taste of Saginaw’s culinary diversity.

Dupuis Corner Bistro & Cafe

3925 N Michigan Ave, Saginaw (in the Skyway Plaza)
For something a little more refined but still relaxed, Dupuis Corner Bistro & Café offers a delightful blend of European-inspired dishes and Midwestern hospitality.

The café’s menu features fresh salads, artisan sandwiches, and comforting entrées, along with excellent coffee and an inviting selection of desserts.

With its cozy décor and welcoming staff, it’s an ideal spot to unwind after a day of art and exploration or to linger over lunch with friends.

Discover More in Saginaw

A visit to the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum is just the beginning of what makes Saginaw, Michigan, such a special destination.

From its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture to its scenic parks and welcoming local businesses, the city offers countless ways to connect with creativity and community.

Whether you’re strolling along the riverfront, catching a performance at one of the area’s theaters, or discovering another hidden gem nearby, you’ll find that Saginaw’s spirit of art and innovation extends far beyond the museum walls.