Detroit Train Station Old Photos: A Peek Into The Past


Old Detroit train station sold for redevelopment
Old Detroit train station sold for redevelopment from www.wilx.com

The Detroit Train Station, also known as Michigan Central Station, is an iconic landmark of Detroit. It was built in 1913 and served as a transportation hub for decades. However, the station was closed in 1988 and has remained abandoned since then. Despite its current state, the Detroit Train Station remains a popular subject for photographers and history enthusiasts. In this article, we will take a look at some old photos of the Detroit Train Station and learn more about its fascinating history.

The Early Years

When the Detroit Train Station was first built, it was hailed as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. The station was designed by the renowned architectural firm Warren & Wetmore, who also designed the Grand Central Terminal in New York City. The Detroit Train Station was an impressive sight, with its Beaux-Arts style architecture, soaring columns, and ornate details.

For decades, the Detroit Train Station was a bustling transportation hub. It served as a gateway to the city for millions of passengers, and was a hub for commerce and industry. The station was the heart of Detroit's transportation system, connecting the city to other major cities across the country.

Decline and Abandonment

Despite its early success, the Detroit Train Station began to decline in the mid-20th century. The popularity of automobiles and airplanes led to a decline in train travel, and the station began to lose passengers. In the 1960s and 1970s, the station was hit hard by economic decline and urban decay. The surrounding neighborhood fell into disrepair, and the station began to attract vandals and squatters.

In 1988, the Detroit Train Station was closed for good. The building was abandoned, and it has remained empty ever since. Over the years, the station has been the subject of many redevelopment proposals, but none have come to fruition. Today, the Detroit Train Station remains a haunting reminder of a bygone era.

Old Photos of the Detroit Train Station

Despite its current state of disrepair, the Detroit Train Station remains a popular subject for photographers. Over the years, many photographers have captured stunning images of the station, both inside and out. These old photos provide a glimpse into the station's past, and help us to appreciate its architectural beauty and historical significance.

The Exterior

One of the most striking features of the Detroit Train Station is its exterior. The Beaux-Arts style architecture is truly stunning, with its soaring columns, intricate details, and majestic clock tower. Many photographers have captured images of the station's exterior over the years, showcasing its beauty and grandeur.

One particularly striking image is a black and white photo taken in the 1940s. The photo shows the station's exterior, with a row of taxis waiting outside. The image captures the energy and excitement of the station, and provides a glimpse into the bustling world of 1940s Detroit.

The Interior

The interior of the Detroit Train Station is just as impressive as its exterior. The station's main waiting room is a massive space, with soaring ceilings, marble floors, and ornate details. Many photographers have captured images of the waiting room over the years, showcasing its grandeur and beauty.

One particularly stunning image is a photo taken in the 1970s. The photo shows the waiting room in a state of decay, with peeling paint, broken windows, and debris scattered on the floor. Despite its state of disrepair, the waiting room still retains its grandeur and beauty, providing a haunting reminder of the station's past.

The Future of the Detroit Train Station

Despite its current state of abandonment, there is hope for the future of the Detroit Train Station. In recent years, there have been several redevelopment proposals for the site, and there is growing interest in preserving and restoring the station. In 2018, it was announced that Ford Motor Company had purchased the station with plans to renovate it into a research and development hub.

While the future of the Detroit Train Station remains uncertain, one thing is certain: its past will not be forgotten. The old photos of the station provide a glimpse into its fascinating history, and help us to appreciate its architectural beauty and historical significance. As we look to the future of the Detroit Train Station, we must remember its past and work to preserve its legacy for future generations.


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