Detroit's Michigan Central Station

Images of America: Michigan

by Kelli B. Kavanaugh

In 1913, the Michigan Central Station opened its majestic entrances to the people of Detroit. Designed by Warren & Wetmore and Reed & Stern, the firms also noted as the architects of the Grand Central Station in New York City, the depot was a marvel of grandeur and comfort for the traveler lucky enough to utilize its facilities. Soldiers went to war, families both separated and rejoined, and folks looking for an honest living in the Motor City all walked the Michigan Central's elegant corridors. Since the last train pulled away from the station in 1988, the structure has fallen prey to rapidly paced deterioration. Detroit's Michigan Central Station captures the glory of the Michigan Central and its environs. Using photographs from the Burton Historical Collection, as well as private collections, the book illustrates the use of the Michigan Central Station by a city whose story dramatically parallels that of this magnificent structure. The book also includes imagined futures of the station from some of the many people who have been inspired by the magic this grand building continues to exude.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Transport, Architecture

130 pages, Hardcover

First published December 10, 2001

Reviews

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maybe I'll see it someday...Hey, I did, the day after reading this! Helped me understand and appreciate this amazing (and amazingly neglected) building.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Someone recently gifted me this rather old (2001) mainly picture book about one of the iconic Detroit landmarks. This book was printed during the sad decline of the Station. It is even more meaningful now since the restoration was finally completed in 2024. (After several changes in ownership the Ford Motor Company was largely responsible for the restoration). It is truly amazing the detail that has been preserved. Now a multi-use office/educational building I would highly recommend a visit to anyone interested in this historic Detroit landmark built in the Beaux-Arts Classical Style.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fine collection of pictures of the Michigan Central Station.