Betty Hutton (born Elizabeth June Thornburg on February 26, 1921 in Battle Creek, Michigan) was an American stage, film and television actress, comedian, dancer and singer. She was raised in Detroit during the Great Depression by a single mother who worked as a bootlegger. She began performing at a young age, entertaining patrons at her mother's speakeasy. She rose to fame in the 1940's after performing on Broadway, and later in 1941 signing a contract with Paramount Pictures. During those years she also recorded numerous singles for Capital Records. Her last feature film was in 1957 with Spring Reunion. She passed away in 2007 at the age of 86.

She starred in the movie 'The Miracle of Morgan's Creek' Directed by Presten Sturges in 1943, and released in 1944. She co-starred with Eddie Bracken. This film was her first breakthrough role, which led to many other feature films. The film was nominated for a 1945 Academy Award for Best Screenplay. Betty won a Best Acting award at the National Board of Review Awards for this film in 1944.

The Miracle of Morgan's Creek is a comedy set against the backdrop of World War II - era America. It's plot follows a wayard woman who after attending a party with soldiers in her small town, awakens to find herself married and pregnant, with no memory of her new suitor's identity. The film originally met objections from major motion pictures censorship guidelines known as the Hays Code for its candid depiction of an unwed mother, as well as its representation of American soldiers, which the U.S. War Department felt may be potentially unflattering. The endured delays in its release, but eventually made it to the theatres in 1944. The surprise ending of this movie as made it a favorite among audiences spanning generations.

In 2001 it was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant." It is the only film she appeared in that received this honor. The film ranks #54 on the American Film Institute's 100 Years... 100 Laughs list of the top 100 funniest films in history.

We will be hosting a free viewing of this movie at the museum as part of our Betty Hutton Film Festival.

Prior to the viewing, we will present a short history presentation on Betty Hutton and the history of the film being presented.

Seating is limited to the first 95 people. Popcorn will be available. This event is free, but donations to the museum are appreciated.