Detroit is rich with history. Our city has been through its fair share of ups, downs, and in-betweens, from our storied industrial past to plenty of sports legends. If you’re a history buff, there’s nothing more fascinating than examining photos from days long-past in a familiar area. Here are 11 awesome pictures that demonstrate the changes – and consistencies – of life in Detroit over the decades.
1. Grand Circus Park and its broader historic district have served as a meeting spot and leisure location for Detroiters since its founding in 1867.
While it looks different today, this capture of the area from 1910 shows that Motor City residents have always appreciated spending time in public spaces.
2. Today, the Whitney is known as a unique and upscale dining destination for Detroiters seeking a dash of history.
This photo shows the lumber baron’s mansion in 1905, only five years after the death of David Whitney Jr. himself. At the time, Whitney’s widow still resided in the home.
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3. Any true Detroiter holds a special place in their heart for the Red Wings.
The team was founded in 1926 and continues to serve as a point of pride for Motor City residents who can’t get enough hockey. This photo shows the 1952 team donning the famous winged wheel logo.
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4. This Prohibition-era capture shows Detroit police investigating an underground brewery.
Times have certainly changed, as the Motor City and Michigan as a whole are now celebrated for their abundance of craft beer options and charming breweries.
5. We just adore the ambiance and sense of serenity in this photo from the lake at Detroit’s Palmer Park, captured in the early 1900s.
This iconic structure was demolished in 2008 after hosting the Detroit Tigers since 1912. It also hosted the Detroit Lions between 1938 and 1974. The Tigers played their last game at Tiger Stadium in 1999.
7. Do you remember Jefferson Hall? This apartment building on East Jefferson, constructed in 1916, featured a garden courtyard and housed hundreds of Detroit residents during its years of operation.
While options have shifted over the generations, this photo from somewhere between 1910 and 1920 shows that the park has long bustled with activity and traffic.
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9. This shot shows Michigan Central Station in Detroit as it appeared in the summer of 1988. At the time of this photograph, the once-bustling station had only been closed for a handful of months.
First opened in 1914, Michigan Central Station saw thousands of train travelers make their way through the corridors. Over the years, it’s been the source of much discussion and development speculation.
10. Streetcars might not be the norm these days, but Detroit winters have always been harsh.
This photo, taken along Woodward Avenue in the early 20th century, proves that Detroiters have always dealt with their fair share of ice, snow, and less-than-fun conditions during winter months.
11. One thing is undeniable: cars have played a massive role in the history of our city.
The influence of the auto industry remains intact today, and many Detroiters consider auto factory work a family tradition. Here’s a 1910 capture of the Cadillac Motor Car Company building at Amsterdam Street and Cass Avenue.
Do you have any photos from throughout Detroit’s history that capture the spirit of the city? Have the pictures above stirred up any unique memories? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comment section below! To recommend a Detroit destination for a future piece, fill out our nomination form.
