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.
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