Autism history museum coming to Meridian Mall in February

Xavier DeGroat, 31, is opening an autism history museum in Meridian Mall on Feb. 4. As someone who is on the autism spectrum, DeGroat hopes his museum will serve as both a safe space for those on the spectrum and as an educational center. 

DeGroat, who grew up in Delta Township, said he took many visits to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, which inspired him to open up a museum of his own. He also said he drew inspiration from his childhood role model, Fred Rogers, of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” 

“I wanted to open up my own style of museum, because I've never seen anything like it,” DeGroat said. 

The museum would be the first of its kind in the nation dedicated to autism history. It will feature a wall of autism history, including impactful moments, discoveries and figures. Notable people on the spectrum, like Albert Einstein and Elon Musk, will be highlighted. 

“One important thing to know is it’s not just going to be a museum,” DeGroat said. “It’s going to be a center for kids to enjoy a fun time and learn in a sensory-friendly environment.”

The museum will feature a sensory area for children with autism. With a location next to Schuler Books, DeGroat plans on holding a storytime for kids when they visit the museum. Puppet plays are also in the works. 

DeGroat started his own foundation, the Xavier DeGroat Autism Foundation, in 2018. The foundation is hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony Feb. 4. 

There will be no charge to visit the museum, though donations will be accepted. Official hours of operation are to be announced.