These Pictures Of Vintage Detroit Will Surprise You
By Kiri Picone | Edited By Savannah Cox
Published March 12, 2015
Updated December 13, 2022
In spite of its infrastructure and landmarks, a city is not immortal. These vintage Detroit photos serve as a reminder of that.
In spite of its infrastructure, landmarks, and cultural significance, the city is not immortal. Detroit is no exception. While rebounding in some areas, for the most part, 21st-century Detroit remains a mere shadow of its former self.
Once known for powering most of the country, Detroit lost its steam and 70% of its population in the last 60 years and had to declare bankruptcy in 2013 to stay afloat.
Detroit’s Belle Isle back in 1905. Source: Coleman Family
When Detroit’s Michigan Central Station was built in 1913, it was one of the largest rail stations in the country. Source: Wikipedia
Children run through Pingree Park. Hazen S. Pingree was a local politician who expanded public welfare programs and created many new parks and schools. Source: Detroit Metro Times
During World War II, many wartime factories were located in Detroit. Source: Slate
28-ton tanks called “General Grants” were mass produced by the Chrysler Corporation’s tank arsenal in 1942. Source: Vintage Everyday
In 1945, gasoline in Detroit cost just 17 cents per gallon. Source: Vintage Everyday
Employees work on cars at Detroit’s Packard Motor Car Company. Source: PennLive
A peek at the 1960 National Auto Show held at Cobo Hall. Source: Huffington Post
A testament to globalization's impacts, it's hard to imagine that this overwhelming mass of abandoned buildings and empty streets was once considered the Silicon Valley of America.
But for now, forget about the slums, high crime rates and urban graveyards and think back to the days when Detroit symbolized the indomitable power of American industry and labor.
