Learn About Detroit's Rich History at These Museums and Historical Sites

February 21, 2020 · 3 min read

Detroit is a city rich with history, and you can learn more about this history at a number of local historical sites and museums. The city became the fourth-largest in the U.S. in the early 20th century, thanks to the major influence of the auto industry, which was booming at this time. As the industry continued to expand, Detroit's role in the production and manufacture of new models was a major part of its history. Additionally, several types of music and various cultures influenced the atmosphere of Detroit.

Motown Museum

The founder of Motown Records, Berry Gordy, lived in Detroit and established his groundbreaking label in the city. The record label became extremely prominent in the 1960s and 1970s, featuring music from Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross & the Supremes, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, and many other famous musicians. Motown played a major role in the vibe of Detroit, and its influence is on display at Motown Museum.

The name of the label and the musical movement actually plays on Detroit's main nickname, Motor City. At the museum, you can view the exhibits, which feature a variety of artifacts on display that bring this musical movement to life. a tour of this museum to learn more about the fascinating beginning of the record label that would influence many musicians in the future.

David Whitney House

Between 1890 and 1894, construction took place on a home for one of the wealthiest residents of the state of Michigan. This resident, David Whitney, descended from early settlers of Massachusetts and relocated to Detroit to operate East Coast-based lumber firms. Whitney invested in land in Michigan and Wisconsin, after which he became involved in maritime transportation. These investments allowed him to become extremely prosperous. He hired Gordon W. Lloyd to build his home, which still stands in Detroit.

The David Whitney House is a historic treasure built in the Romanesque Revival architectural style. It features 42 rooms, 218 lead-glass and stained glass windows installed by Tiffany's of New York, and 20 elegant fireplaces. When completed, the local newspaper described the David Whitney House as an American palace, one of the state's most pretentious houses, and one of the West's most elaborate homes. Today, the building houses a restaurant and is open to the public.

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant

Ford Motor Company also plays a major role in Detroit's rich history. You can take a tour of the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, which was the birthplace of the Model T, to learn more about this early automotive company and how it influenced the growth of the industry. This location is also the world's oldest auto plant that is open to the public and housed within a three-story mill building that is built in the New England architectural style.

The original metal fire doors, Henry Ford's “no smoking” stenciled signs, and plank floors are all still within the structure, allowing visitors to feel like they've taken a step back in time.

Whether you're an auto enthusiast or just interested in learning more about Detroit, you'll enjoy a visit to these historic spots in Motor City.

Photo by Anon from Pexels

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Dec 06, 2024 in Detroit

Holidays are Here: Top 5 Winter Events in Highland Park, MI

Image via Bill Snethkamp CDJR. It's the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas in Highland Park is finally here and we cannot wait to join all of the festivities. This city is buzzing with holiday cheer and there are so many fun events planned in the area. Here is a list of some of the exciting celebrations planned for this year. more 1. Winter Wonderland Pop-Up Shop Don't miss out on the Winter Wonderland Pop-Up shop located on Woodward Avenue. With several dates throughout the month of December, you will have many chances for a festive shopping experience that also supports local artists. Feel the spirit of the holidays while shopping for the perfect presents for your loved ones. 2. Celtic Christmas by Motor City Irish Dance If you're looking for a truly unique holiday experience, check out the seventh annual Celtic dancing production hosted by Motor City Irish Dance at the Marygrove Conservancy on December 21, 2024. Experience traditional Irish dancing full of energy and grace choreographed to a mix of your favorite holiday tunes. Academic dancers and live musicians will be taking the stage and putting on the performance of the season. 3. Holiday Bead Party Stop by the Holiday Bead Party at Bath Savvy on December 8, 2024, in Ferndale, MI, for a fun activity for the whole family. Children are encouraged to attend with a parent or legal guardian present. Use holiday-themed beads to craft beautiful bracelets, necklaces, and more. This would be a wonderful chance to make a handmade gift for a crafts lover. 4. Holiday Book Festival Gather all of your book-loving family and friends and attend the 5th annual Holiday Book Festival hosted by Detroit City Book. The event will be taking place on December 7, 2024, at the Ernest T. Ford Field House on Pitkin St. Meet with local indie authors who will be offering book signings, and bring your children for a free holiday selfie with Santa Claus! They will also be providing snacks and hot chocolate, so be sure to stop by. 5. Warren Tree Lighting The event that everyone gets excited about is seeing all the lights and decorations that mark the season. This year, Warren's Annual Tree Lighting will be taking place on December 7, 2024, at Warren City Square in Warren, MI. Enjoy the parade and be sure to see Santa while you're there. Don't forget to hit the ice rink, hop on a wagon ride, and join the ornament giveaway! While you're partaking in the festivities, stop in and visit us at Bill Snethkamp CDJR in Highland Park, MI to browse our lineup of vehicles and find yourself a gift to enjoy this season.

A great amount of trees turning different colors in the Autumn

Oct 28, 2024 in Detroit

Upcoming Autumn Events around Detroit

Image via Bill Snethkamp CDJR. From Halloween to Thanksgiving to Christmas preparations, the Detroit area has all the Fall events your heart desires! more October 31 thru November 3 - YoumaCon Step into a world of Japanese Anime, Cosplay, manga, gaming, and pop culture at YoumaCon, a 4-day event that is celebrating 20 years! Amateur and pro convention goers alike will enjoy this immersive event. With 1 or 3-day passes, you decide how much fun you want to have, exclusively at the world-famous Huntington Place at 1 Washington Blvd. November 22 - Tree Lighting Festival Be a part of the 21st annual Tree Lighting Festival from 4pm - 9pm at Campus Martius Park. Along with the main event, be on the lookout for elite skating performances, talent from near and far on the main stage, and even an appearance by Santa. November 24 - Wild Lights Starting November 24th and spanning through the holiday season, come be dazzled by over 500 light displays and millions of twinkling lights. This event takes place at the Detroit Zoo. Be sure your phone is charged so you're ready to take pictures of an event you will want to remember, as you see the zoo like never before. For best access, park and enter at Gate 0 off Woodward Ave or Gate 1 off W. 10 Mile Rd. Now thru November 26 - Franklin Cider Mill Few experiences create autumn memories like that of visiting a cider mill. Come see the historic Franklin Cider Mill, in operation since 1837. From seeing the original water wheel in motion, to fresh donuts made before your eyes, to learning and watching the apple cider process, this experience is unmatched. Be sure to enjoy some fresh cider and donuts while you're on site! This wonderful experience awaits you at 7450 Franklin Road in Bloomfield Hills, MI. November 28 - Turkey Trot Complete your November and kick-off Thanksgiving Day at the Turkey Trot, a tradition for over 40 years. Join thousands of participants, many in costume, to run 1 mile, 5k, or 10k, or simply support the festivities from the sidelines. The 5k & 10k start downtown at Griswold and Fort Street, all Trots end at Atwater Street behind the world famous Huntington Place. Be ready for any conditions you encounter with a reliable, eye-catching vehicle from Bill Snethkamp Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, conveniently located in Highland Park, MI.

Dec 01, 2023 in Detroit

These Are The Best Burgers in Detroit, MI

Image via Pixabay. Detroit is one of the most exciting cities in Michigan, with plenty of things to do and see and some of the best food in the state. These top restaurants in Detroit, MI, serve mouthwatering burgers guaranteed to suit every taste. Your Jeep Cherokee is a roomy SUV perfect for taking the whole family to some of these delicious restaurants. more 1. Mercury Burger and Bar Visit Mercury Burger and Bar at 2163 Michigan Avenue for friendly service, huge juicy patties, thick shakes, and delicious crisp tater tots. Some must-savor menu items include Bleu Apple with applewood smoked bacon and a hearty service in bleu cheese and Southwest Detroit with chorizo, candied jalapeno, and creamy avocado. 2. Basement Burger Bar Basement Burger Bar, at 1326 Brush Street, is a lovely local favorite, perfect for a special family meal out. You'll feel like family when you step inside and enjoy delicious patties and sliders. There are also vegetarian options, like the Falafelicious slider with fresh tomatoes and hummus. The All-American Burger is an excellent bet, too, stacked high with lettuce, pickles, tomato, and American cheese, and the Tropical Burger is an inspired treat with grilled pineapple and Swiss cheese. Plus, you can pick your protein and choose from a wide variety of sides. 3. Royale With Cheese Stop by Royale With Cheese at 4163 Cass Avenue for incredible, classic patties stacked with all of your favorite toppings. There's plenty to love about this excellent Detroit favorite, but there are some top menu items undoubtedly worth sampling. The Royale Burger comes with mouthwatering house sauce, a perfectly grilled patty, and American cheese, and the Caprese Burger is a sophisticated treat with balsamic, fresh basil, and a generous serving of mozzarella cheese. 4. Cutters Bar & Grill Cutters Bar & Grill, at 2638 Orleans Street in Detroit's Eastern Market, is a true local find and a great place to get fresh, giant patties made to order and served with a smile. The Bacon Cheeseburger is a crowd-pleaser, topped with crisp strips of bacon and plenty of gooey cheese. Or you can get your patty stuffed with all sorts of great additions, like blue cheese and olives or mushrooms and creamy Swiss cheese. These top Detroit restaurants will definitely hit the spot if you're looking for a juicy, perfectly cooked patty on a toasted bun with all the toppings. From classic to more unique offerings, there's something on the menu for everyone in this fantastic city, but you'll need some good wheels to visit them all. Stop in to Bill Snethkamp Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and test drive one of our great models today.