Our Museum started out as the Newport Academy, founded by Emily Ward, built-in 1847 by her brother Eber Brock Ward. The original location was on the northwest corner of South Main Street and Washington Street, in Newport (Newport was later changed to Marine City).
The building was relocated to its present location, in 1870 for use as The Village Hall. The contract to move the building went to John Bell, for the sum of $147.00. Once moved the structure had to be repaired and upgrades were added to the building totaling $121.00
Now the Village Hall, the upper level was used for City offices, Council Meetings, Lectures, and housed the Justice of the Peace. The lower level housed the Police station and jail. Cotterville Township elections were also held here. For the next 19 years, the building would serve as such.

After 1889 the building would be used as:A Presbyterian ChurchOrganizing St John’s Evangelical ChurchNiagara Hose Co. #2 – The Hose Company became responsible for the building after the Presbyterian Church left. A two-wheel hose cart was stored downstairs. The hose house was located where the annex stands today.Upstairs was redecorated, and a hardwood oak floor was installed for dances and other social events.1908 – The building stood empty for several years.The Red Cross occupied the building during World War One1920 to 1938 – It was used as an elementary school for the Marine City public school district because of a fire.1939 – The Marine City Library was moved from the City Hall to this building, where is remained until 1982.1983 – Is when the building became the Community Pride and Heritage Museum.1992 the annex was added to the current structure.2000 – The Diorama was created, representing how the Belle River looked in 1885.2003 – The Kellog Blacksmith Shop was erected.2005 – The front porch was restored to its original design from the 1870’s.