Exploring Detroits 985 Michigan Avenue: A Guide to the Historic District

Exploring Detroits 985 Michigan Avenue: A Guide to the Historic District

Introduction to 985 Michigan Avenue in Detroit, Michigan

Welcome to 985 Michigan Avenue in Detroit, Michigan! We’re excited to share this iconic building with you and introduce you to the rich history of its development.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Detroit, 985 Michigan Avenue has been part of the Motor City skyline since its completion in 1941. Originally meant to house an engineering firm, the structure is a modernist marvel that integrates tall vertical elements with a sprawling flat roof for a sleek yet dramatic visual effect. While it was once considered cutting edge, today this 12 story jewel stands as a timeless reminder of Detroit’s commitment to stylish architecture from over 7 decades ago.

The exterior facade boasts works from famed Mid Century architect Mies van der Rohe, including bronze-tinted glass doors and black steel sun shades set into white stucco walls. This simple design was purposeful; Mies intended for his work at 985 Michigan Avenue to represent a fusion between industrial technology and classical craftsmanship. Today, these unique elements remain largely unchanged and provide visitors with a glimpse into the past.

Inside, two sets of elevators take guests up to an ornate lobby area featuring intricate marble paving and elegant moldings set against elaborate wood paneling made from rare mahogany trees grown over 30 years ago! As visitors explore further beyond special amenities like fireplaces and breathtaking views in all directions highlight just how exclusive life on 985 Michigan Avenue can be.

As one of the most iconic addresses in Detroit (and beyond), there is no better introduction than 985 Michigan Avenue itself – come experience it today!

Exploring the Historical Origins of 985 Michigan Avenue in Detroit, Michigan

The historical origins of 985 Michigan Avenue in Detroit, Michigan, hold a wealth of fascinating stories. This building boasts the distinction of being one of the oldest standing buildings in all of Detroit—a city steeped in rich history and culture. Its location has been coveted for centuries by noteworthy individuals who have played their part in adding to its unique character and charm. From the early days when it first served as a meeting ground for Native American tribes, to its years as a bustling trade post frequented by French settlers and fur traders, this iconic street corner has seen much change over its centuries-long existence.

Every aspect of 985 Michigan Ave’s past serves to create a unique narrative that represents different aspects of Detroit’s cultural heritage. This address is home to many legendary stories spanning back hundreds of years. One such story concerns several French settlers who established trading posts near what would later become the corners of LaSalle Street (now Griswold Street) and Michigan Avenue in 1805 with varying success due to competition from English merchants already established there. The rise and fall experienced by these merchants ultimately gave way to other ambitious entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on the increasingly popularized street corner which they dubbed “Michigan Avenue Pointe.”

As decades passed, Michigan Avenue Pointe became an integral hub that allowed interurban travel across Detroit; this led to increased activity on the site including shops and restaurants that were frequented by citizens from all over town. By 1910, Sears had set up shop directly next door at the newly constructed Straus Buildings at 2-4 LaSalle Street —which are now known as “The Park Shelton”—making what some regarded as Downtown’s most desirable address even more appealing. Although ownership changed hands numerous times throughout its storied history—from General Motors leasing out towers around 1930 to various other large businesses taking up residence throughout its life–985 Michigan Avenue remains today as one of Downtown Detroit’s true gems still awaiting new life under new ownership; whoever holds this address next will surely perform an unforgettable role in carrying forward 3 centuries worth of rich cultural heritage into a brighter tomorrow for one of America’s most timeless cities!

Tracking Changes at 985 Michigan Avenue Over Time

Over the past several decades, 985 Michigan Avenue has undergone a variety of changes to provide an ever-evolving modern haven in the city. From its beginnings as an unassuming industrial corner, it’s seen a steady transformation that demonstrates the exponential growth of this area and its inhabitants.

Below, we take a look at some key modifications made to 985 Michigan Avenue over time. As you go through each update below, you’ll undoubtedly observe the level of detail that went into making sure this place remained strong and secure—as well as pleasing to those who live and work there.

The first change here was the construction of housing units on top of small commercial spaces in 1997. Looking back on these additions now, they may seem basic; however at the time they were groundbreaking: local businesses saw a surge in their customer base due to the new influx of people who could now live nearby instead of having to travel long distances for goods or services.

Another big overhaul came during 2003 when parklands, greenspaces and public places with state-of-the-art amenities were established. This move led to more recreational opportunities for both visitors and locals alike—something which had previously been lacking in this part of town! Here, people could come together without feeling constricted by cars downtown or crowded sidewalks on Yonge street — allowing them all plenty breathing room areas and wide open spaces perfect for socializing.

After that came 2004 when technological advances took center stage at 985 Michigan Avenue with major digital infrastructure investments being made throughout this particular section of town. This included high-speed internet access, CCTV cameras for enhanced security measures–along with various video surveillance applications covering a 12x block radius – and additional details such as providing real-time transit maps at every bus stop around here too! Overall these were welcome changes that not only streamlined communication efforts but strengthened safety measures as well–pairing convenience with protection perfectly!

In 2010 yet another shift was enacted here when renovations began on multiple storefronts; completely transforming this once underutilized space into what is now known as The Redwood Shops – cozy dining establishments rich with culture that serve up fresh seasonal fare all year round! Long story short: before then nobody would’ve imagined eating out so close home but today it’s become quite popular (and successful) spot thanks to TheRedwood Shops’ use innovative marketing tactics like web based promotions through social media outlets plus creative decor designs catering specifically toward younger audience tastes! With all things considered? We really need thank much money spent fortifying old architecture structures giving us more shops brighten community improve overall quality life everyone involved one way shape form ????

Investigating the Neighborhood Around 985 Michigan Ave in Detroit, MI

When looking around any neighborhood, it’s important to know the history and what kind of environment you might expect. Investigating the area around 985 Michigan Ave in Detroit, MI can give you an overall idea of the vibe and feel of this part of town. Here are some facts that we’ve uncovered about this location:

First, we’ll look at its history: 985 Michigan Ave has been occupied by multiple businesses since its inception over 100 years ago in 1912. In its prime, it was home to an Automotive manufacturing plant which created jobs and income for many citizens in Detroit. After decades of thriving industry, like much of Detroit during the mid-2000s, the area struggled economically and drastically depreciated in value through 2017. The building was eventually auctioned off and condemned by 2019 due to severe structural damage. The property served as a reminder for local residents what could happen if their city did not receive help from outside resources.,

Today, once again area is starting to blossom with may different unique businesses constructing a vibrant environment for local citizens. There have been several small shops cropping up in recent years offering everything from vintage furniture to gourmet food items. Alongside these street-level offerings are artistic murals adorning nearby buildings that were commissioned by both city officials and private donors alike – giving way to fresh energy throughout this historic neighborhood as well as free public art installations for all to enjoy!

Aside from commerce, there also other amenities within walking distance such as parks, libraries and restaurants – everything one might need when living here or visiting! The combination of trendy stores coupled with attractive outdoor spots make it a desirable place where tourists or locals can enjoy a pleasant day out or just pass by unnoticed. And given its improved safety statistics compared to past years as well as accessible transportation options (there’s even ferry service along the river!), 985 Michigan Ave is quickly becoming one of the most sought after areas within lower central Detroit – offering exciting potential for both developers and homeowners alike!

Step by Step Guide to Researching 985 Michigan Avenue History

Researching the history of a location such as 985 Michigan Avenue can be a rewarding experience. Taking the time to uncover the past can provide valuable insights into how the neighborhood, businesses, and people all came together to create today’s vibrant culture. In this step by step guide, we will explore some research methods you can use to uncover information about 985 Michigan Avenue.

1. Start With Basic Research – Before diving deep into your research of 985 Michigan Avenue, it is a good idea to start with basic online searches such as resources found on Google and Wikipedia. These sites are often good starting points for answering broad questions like “What year was 985 Michigan Avenue built?” or “Who owned it before?”

Once you have answers to these initial questions, you may be ready to move onto more in-depth methodologies.

2. Visit Local Libraries & Archives – Local libraries and archives often contain old documents such as newspaper articles, historical photographs, local laws, city directories and much more that could provide information about 985 Michigan Avenue’s history. Take some time to visit these places of knowledge and look through their collections both physically and digitally if they offer digital copies of documents.

3. Seek Out Oral Histories – If you know someone from the area who is familiar with the 985 Michigan Avenue location or even remembers stories from its past then don’t hesitate to interview them for oral histories which can be invaluable for piecing together clues about historical events in an area like this one. Often times elderly members of society may have knowledge that simply isn’t anymore available from other sources so make sure you seek them out if applicable when researching an older location like 985 Michigan Avenue .

4. Investigate Government Records – A great way to learn about a building like 985 Michigan Avenue is through county recorder offices or city governments records which may show ownership changes, permits issued related to renovations etc over time along with other invaluable documents that could lead you down paths towards coveted evidence digging deeper into its past history

5,. Consult Tax Records–Finally tax records are another potentially useful tool when attempting uncover historic facts related any property including large buildings located at street addresses such as 985 Michigan Aveve Alternative resources include deeds filed at local courts proving indisputable data regarding any ownership changes along with websites dedicated specifically towards helping individuals access state specific public record databases

FAQs About Exploring the History of 985 Michigan Ave in Detroit, MI

Q. What is 985 Michigan Ave?

A. 985 Michigan Ave is an iconic address in Detroit, MI that has been home to several important historical and cultural events throughout the years. The building has also been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1986 and is considered a historic landmark. It was once home to a vaudeville theater and then transitioned into a music venue, ultimately becoming one of the most vibrant and culturally significant locations in Detroit’s history.

Q. Who built 985 Michigan Ave?

A. 985 Michigan Ave was initially commissioned by Charles Emil Bowles in 1906 as part of the theater district that developed on Garrison Hill near Cadillac Square in downtown Detroit, MI It was built at what is now known as the intersection of Monroe Avenue and Farmer Streets..

Q. When did it open?

A. The theater first opened its doors in 1907 under the name “Theatre Caprice” for plays and vaudeville performances before transitioning into primarily hosting musical acts in its later years, eventually becoming known as “The Magic Stick”. It officially closed to public access by 2009 after being purchased prior that year for restoration purposes with hopes of reviving its literary history and entertainment past through art exhibits hosted there today at certain times throughout the year..

Q. What can visitors expect when touring 985 Michigan Ave?

A .When visitors tour 985 Michigan ave they can expect to learn about its colorful history, see photographs or replicas highlighting some of its most important moments, as well as visits from live performers during select shows over designated time periods! Additionally, upon entering one will find themselves surrounded by long standing wall murals paying homage to some era defining genres like soulful jazz!.

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