In the late 19th century, Detroit grew rapidly and its economy thrived, the city became a hub of commerce and industry. Pharmaceuticals became a major industry in the city. Detroit changed from its early role as a rural merchant to that of an industrial magnate. The cast-iron stove manufacturing became the top industry and the city became known as the ‘Stove Capital of the World’. The rise of manufacturing led to a new class of wealthy industrialists, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
Here below are some amazing historical photos that show what Detroit looked like in the late 19th century. These photographs show streets, landmarks, roads, and everyday life of Detroit.
Also check, Detroit at the beginning of the 20th century.
#1 Campus Martius, Detroit, 1890s.
#2 Wm. A. Butler home at 185 W. Lafayette Avenue, Detroit, 1880s.
#3 The corner of Michigan and Trumbull, 1894
#4 Cycling in Detroit at approach to Belle Isle Bridge, c. 1890
#5 Several thousand employees gathered in front of the Ford Motor Company Building in Detroit, 1899.
#6 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, 1890s.
The former high-rise in Downtown Detroit was located at 137 Woodward Avenue. The building was constructed in 1896 for the Mabley and Company department store chain and was the city’s second skyscraper, following the completion of the Hammond Building. It contained 14 stories and stood at 223 ft in height.
Several titles show up twice each with different images.
One is for Detroit Lakes, MN.
I doubt the Hudson Motor Company looked as presented back in the 1890s.
What is the Hastings Expressway?
Between I-94 and I-375, the Hastings-Oakland Expressway was a provisional name for I-375 and I-75. Considering its relevance to Black Bottom, perhaps the graded I-375 replacement should be named Hastings Blvd.
This old pics are great