Nostalgia on the Line: The Battle to Save Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum

Anyone living in Metro Detroit, especially those living in Farmington Hills, are likely familiar with Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum, a beloved local landmark. However, the future of this cherished arcade is now in jeopardy. The planning commission of Farmington Hills recently approved a redevelopment proposal for a local shopping center, a decision that could significantly affect the museum's existence.

The proposal focuses on revitalizing a strip mall situated on Orchard Lake Road near 14 Mile Road. The plan includes constructing a smaller Meijer store, a move seen as a step towards modernizing the area. However, this development directly impacts Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum, an arcade and venue deeply ingrained in the local culture for decades and well-known to those living in Farmington Hills.

The community reacted with dismay to the news of the potential uprooting of the museum. Jeremy Yagoda, the owner of the museum, has been actively engaging with city council members and the mayor, ensuring they are "aware of [his] concerns and passion for continuing Marvin’s." Despite his efforts, Yagoda faces an uncertain future if displaced, voicing his concerns this week, saying if he gets pushed out of the space, “he doesn’t know 'what we will do or where [we could] even go!'".

The impact of the redevelopment proposal on Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum remains uncertain at this juncture. Although there's a possibility that the museum might be evicted from its current location, various outcomes are still on the table. These include potentially relocating the museum within the same property or even to a different site.

As word of the proposed redevelopment spread, a wave of dismay echoed across social media. Individuals from far and wide voiced their concerns, culminating in over 32,000 signatures on a petition to save the museum.

A significant number of community members marked their presence at the planned commission meeting on Nov. 16. Their goal was to communicate their perspectives to the commissioners, with many underscoring the museum's status as a local icon deserving preservation. Several attendees expressed opposition to the idea of replacing the cherished museum with a new Meijer store, pointing out the presence of other grocery stores nearby and the proximity of two other Meijer locations within a 15-minute drive.

Despite the strong community response, the Farmington Hills Planning Commission voted unanimously in favor of the proposal, forwarding it to the city council for final approval.

In light of the widespread community opposition, city officials have clarified that the decision regarding the museum’s future does not rest with the city council. City Manager Gary Mekjian explained, "Farmington Hills’ city government does not have the ability during the plan review process to dictate specific tenancy of any commercial property in the city. That is a private, contractual relationship between private entities.

In a recent social media post dated Nov. 18, Jeremy Yagoda, the owner of Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum, expressed a mix of determination and uncertainty regarding the future of the beloved establishment. "We are safe for the moment but I have no idea when our section will be taken down," Yagoda stated. Emphasizing his commitment to the museum, he added, "We are here and hope to be here for a long time but I am also looking at other options. Closing is NOT an option in my mind."

Despite Yagoda's proactive communications with his landlord, Andrew Rosenfeld, the museum's general manager, holds a less optimistic view. He expressed concerns about the influence of large corporations in the decision-making process. "The landlord is a huge corporation, Meijer is a big corporation. They have big budgets, they have a lot of people on their payrolls. I hope they can see through to do the right thing, but I think, sadly, they’re going to do what they want to do,” Rosenfeld commented, highlighting the challenges faced by small businesses in such scenarios.

In response to the situation, city officials have extended a helping hand to Yagoda. City Manager Gary Mekjian stated that efforts are being made to "determine his needs and to connect him with resources and/or opportunities that could allow him to remain in the city of Farmington Hills for many generations to come." This gesture reflects the city's recognition of the museum's value to the community and its commitment to exploring possible solutions to retain this cultural landmark. If relocated to a different location in the city, future residents moving to Farmington Hills would at least have the opportunity to enjoy this local treasure.

Mekjian further noted that the planning commission's approval of the proposal presented by RPT Realty was "based solely on its adherence to city planning and zoning regulations, which do not include regulations regarding who specifically can occupy space in the development."

The Farmington Hills community eagerly awaits the next city council meeting, however it remains uncertain whether Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum will feature on the meeting's agenda, a topic of significant interest to those living in Farmington Hills. Many community members who showed their support for Marvin's at the planning commission meeting have expressed their intention to attend the upcoming city council meeting as well. Their presence underscores the deep connection the residents have with the museum.

Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum was founded in the 1980s by Marvin Yagoda, a man renowned for his passion for collecting unique coin-operated machines and other rare items. His vision was to share these fascinating pieces with the public in an engaging, whimsical setting. Following Marvin Yagoda's passing in 2017, his son, Jeremy Yagoda, took the helm of the museum, continuing the legacy of this unique establishment.

Spanning over 5,000 square feet, the museum houses an eclectic mix of vintage coin-operated machines, contemporary video games, and a variety of oddities and nostalgic items that provide an entertaining spot to visit for anyone living in or moving to Farmington Hills. Initially opened in the '80s at Tally Hall, the museum later moved to its current location after Tally Hall's closure.

The museum has established itself as an iconic destination for those living in Metro Detroit and a beloved community cornerstone. Offering free admission to the public, the space also serves as a vibrant venue for parties and has been celebrated in numerous lists, magazines, and television shows. Its unique charm and historical significance make it a cherished spot for residents and newcomers alike, enriching the cultural tapestry of Farmington Hills.

As the story of Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum unfolds, the strong emotional and historical ties that bind the community to this place become increasingly evident. The outpouring of support from those living in Farmington Hills, and even from those considering making it their home, reflects the deep connection people feel to the museum. It is a testament to the power of such unique spaces in creating a sense of community and belonging. The museum’s story is not just about preserving a collection of artifacts; it is about maintaining a vital part of the community's heritage and identity. For the residents of Farmington Hills and those who may join the community in the future, Marvin's is more than a destination—it is a cherished chapter in their collective story, a symbol of the enduring spirit and shared experiences that make Farmington Hills a special place to live and create memories.