Every year since 1969, the Marine Historical Society of Detroit has named an Historian of the Year. The award is voted on by past winners, and honors those who have contributed significantly to the research, presentation or publication of Great Lakes ships and the shipping history.
2019 Historian of the Year
Robert B. Campbell of Grand Ledge, Michigan, author of the book "Classic Ships of Great Lakes" (2015), has been honored as Historian of the Year for 2019 by the Marine Historical Society of Detroit. The annual recipient is selected by those previously honored. Campbell has contributed articles for many years to various marine publications, had produced several DVDs about Great Lakes vessels, and often gives maritime-themed presentations around the Great Lakes.