Hackley and Hume Historic Site: Roof Restoration Project

The Hackley and Hume Historic Site was constructed between the years 1887-1889. Originally, when the three buildings were built, cedar shake shingles were the common source of roofing. Over the years, this Historic Site has been reroofed many times. Most cedar shake shingles last between 17-20 years. The last time the buildings were reroofed was in 2005 (Hackley House) and 2006 (Hume House and City Barn). Before that, they were reroofed from asphalt back to cedar shake in 1988.

The Lakeshore Museum Center continues to reroof using cedar shakes to keep the authentic historic aesthetic and styles that the Hackley and Hume families originally chose.

Now, it’s time to reroof the Hackley & Hume Houses again, and we need your help. Would you consider donating to the Hackley Reroofing Project at this historic structure that is so crucial to preserving the history of Muskegon?

Fun Facts:

• Native Americans used cedar to build their canoes for hundreds of years prior to settlement in Michigan. Cedar was ideal as it naturally is an insect and rot resistant.
• Cedar was also used by the early colonist as a building material.
• Although the cedar is unlikely to rot, rotting can occur due to Michigan’s four seasons; it is hard on the cedar shake shingles.
• Cupping is a result from the hot sun drying out the shingles quickly. It causes the shingle to bend into a cup shape and many of them break as a result.
• The effects of the Great Depression reduced the use of cedar shake roofs in the US. By the 1970s, they were not being used due to the expense and lifespan.
• When the Hackley and Hume families moved in, the cedar shake shingles were also painted.
• Cost per installed shingle is approximately $62.00.