Info from Wikipedia
The Ark, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a nationally known acoustic and folk music venue. It has been in existence in various locations since 1965. It currently seats about 400 and features more than 300 live performances each year.

Info from venue website
In 1965, four Ann Arbor churches envisioned a gathering place for students – a coffee house like many that were springing up on campuses all around the country. First Presbyterian, Calvary Presbyterian, Northside Presbyterian churches and Campus Chapel (Christian Reformed campus ministry) set up a board with two representatives from each church. First Presbyterian Church provided the major portion of the funding and the church house on Hill Street known as Hill House. It was meant to provide a creative outlet for talent in music, poetry and artwork. By December 1965, it had received its present name: The Ark. It has been afloat ever since!
The financial support from the four churches gradually dried up, and The Ark had to support itself with monies from admission fees and donations. By the early 1980s First Presbyterian Church wanted the Hill Street property for its own use and The Ark ended it first phase of its existence.
The second incarnation of The Ark opened on September 8, 1984, featuring performer Michael Cooney; Ark II was at 637½ S. Main St. above the original South Main Market [Robyn played here in 1995]. The Ark continued to grow, and on September 12, 1996, Ark III opened at its current location at 316 S. Main [Robyn played this location as well, three times - see below].
The location at 316 S. Main became The Ark’s permanent home on December 28, 2012 when we purchased our venue as a condominium. For the first time in our history, The Ark owns its home!