Research
The Argus Museum Archives preserve and make accessible historical materials documenting the Argus company, its products, and its role in the history of photography and imaging technology. The Archives support scholarly research, publications, exhibitions, and personal inquiries.
Our holdings are available to researchers by appointment and through staff-assisted remote research services.
This new policy takes effect January 1, 2026.
Archival Collections
The Archives contain a wide range of primary source materials, including:
- Historical photographs and negatives
- Product catalogs, advertisements, and marketing materials
- Corporate records and internal documents
- Technical manuals and engineering documentation
- Oral histories and personal papers related to Argus employees and contributors
- Select artifacts and ephemera supporting archival records
Collections are continually expanding through donations and ongoing preservation efforts.
Research Access
Researchers are welcome by appointment. Due to the nature of the collections, all archival materials are accessed under staff supervision.
Research services are available to:
- Academic and independent researchers
- Students
- Journalists and authors
- Genealogists and hobbyists
Remote research services are offered for those unable to visit in person.
Research Services
The Argus Museum Archives provides the following services:
- Reference assistance and document searches
- Staff-conducted research on specific topics
- Digitization and scanning of archival materials
- Reproduction services for personal, educational, or publication use
- Research consultations for complex or long-term projects
Please note that not all materials can be reproduced due to preservation concerns or rights restrictions.
Research Fees
Research fees help support the preservation and ongoing care of the archival collections.
Service Rates
- Basic reference assistance: Complimentary for brief inquiries (up to 1 Hour, 2 hours for Members)
- Staff research fee: $25 per hour
- Digitization/scanning: $0.50 per image
- Black & white photocopies: $0.20 per page
- Color photocopies: $0.65 per page
Please note, the museum cannot guarantee a quick turnaround. Staff and volunteers are limited. Fees are assessed based on the scope and complexity of each request. Estimates are provided before work begins.
Fees can be paid HERE.
Contact Information
Argus Museum Archives
Email: director@argusmuseum.org
Phone: (313) 499-0551
Research hours are by appointment only.
As part of its mission, the Argus Museum supports and encourages people to explore the history, people, and products of Argus and the Ann Arbor community. The following are links to online resources.
Additional Resources
PastPerfect Online:
An ongoing Museum project to digitally record documents, recordings, and artifacts in its collection, in a searchable format. The Museum is constantly updating records and adding more records.
Another repository of searchable information about collections held by the Museum. Collections include:
Digitized local history information
from the Ann Arbor District Library, including historical newspaper content, photos, advertisements, and more.
Record collections covering many Michigan and University of Michigan historical subjects, including Argus. Open to the public, regardless of academic or professional affiliation.
Finding a camera or projector model: here is an illustrated list of many Argus cameras and slide projectors made between 1936 and 1966.
Finding the date of manufacture for a camera: Here is a guide to finding out when most Argus cameras from between 1936 and 1966 were made, if you know the model.
Additional Instruction manuals
If you can't find it there, please send clear pictures of the item to director@argusmuseum.org