FAQs

Admission
What hours is Ford House open?
Estate Hours
Please visit our Hours of Operation for up-to-date information.
Material Culture
Can Ford House authenticate or appraise my object?
IRS regulations prohibit Ford House staff from offering value appraisals of any kind, including authentication of art, artifacts, and documents. To find a list of appraisers, visit the American Society of Appraisers and/or the Appraisers Association of America.
Can I use an image from your website for a school project or other personal use?
Yes, you can use images from our website for non-commercial personal or classroom use without written permission, as long as it meets the definition of fair use. Please credit FordHouse when using one of our images from the website or social media. Images on our website that are credited to another person or organization and may not be used without their permission. If you have questions, please email collectiondept@fordhouse.org.
How do I get rights to use a Ford House image for a book or other commercial purposes?
To use any text, image, audio, or video for commercial use, such as a publication, or for any purpose other than fair use as defined by law, you must request and receive prior written permission from Ford House. To request permission and/or images, please contact collectiondept@fordhouse.org.
I’d like to donate an object to Ford House. What do I do?
Ford House only collects items that relate directly to the historic estate, Edsel and Eleanor Ford, their direct descendants, and former staff who worked for the Fords.
If you have materials related to these topics you think we might be interested in acquiring, please fill out the online form. Someone will be in touch with you. We generally do not consider unsolicited offers of temporary loans, nor can we promise to display loaned or donated items.
Do not bring any items to Ford House before contacting us in writing.
I’d like to research some historical facts, or I want to know more about an object I saw onexhibition. Who do I contact?
Questions dealing with specific areas relevant to the Ford House estate and our historical collections can be sent to collectiondept@fordhouse.org. We do not have the resources to help with general questions about the Fords or Ford Motor Company history. We encourage you to make use of your local library or search reputable websites.
Policies
Firearms Policy
We take the safety and well-being of our members, visitors, and staff seriously, which is why we have certain restrictions regarding the items prohibited from being brought onto the property. Please review the following list of prohibited items carefully.
The Following Items Are Not Be Permitted (Including But Not Limited To):Â
- Weapons of any kind (including firearms, BB-pellet guns, tasers, pocket knives, box cutters, mace, chemical sprays, brass knuckles, etc.)
- Law enforcement officers are permitted to carry while visiting the Estate.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and we reserve the right to remove any individual or item that we deem inappropriate, dangerous, or in violation of our policies, and bags are subject to search. If you are unsure about the eligibility of a particular item, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly for clarification at info@fordhouse.org or 313-884-4222.
By visiting Edsel & Eleanor Ford House, you agree to abide by these restrictions and understand that failure to comply may result in your removal from the property and/or your membership revoked, if applicable. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe environment for everyone.
Zero-Tolerance Policy
Ford House has a zero-tolerance policy regarding intimidation, threats, or other behaviors that do not align with Ford House values, and individuals who engage in such activities will be removed from the premises and barred from returning. Memberships are intended for noncommercial use by individual members and guests and cannot be transferred. Ford House reserves the right to refuse or revoke membership and/or deny admission without refund for noncompliance with applicable rules and terms or for inappropriate conduct. Purchase of an annual membership does not entitle the purchaser to renewal in a subsequent year.
Friends of Ford House
Joining Has Its Perks!
An annual Friends of Ford House membership is a great way to enjoy all that Ford House has to offer! Enjoy discounted tickets, pre-sale access, exclusive events, discounts on dining and shopping, and more.
