Albert Kahn: 400 Buildings in Metro Detroit

[Above: General Motors Building Research Laboratory (c.1928) in foreground, with the General Motors Building (1922) behind and to the left. Photo by Michael G. Smith]
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Words by Dale A. Carlson
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Research by Dale A. Carlson and Michael G. Smith
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Photos by Dale A. Carlson except where otherwise noted
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The true breadth of Albert Kahn’s creative genius has yet to be fully expressed online….until now. Today, at long last, we unleash upon the public the results of six months of exhaustive, painstaking investigation into the life and work of Detroit’s greatest architect. Some call him “the man who built Detroit”, and we believe beyond any doubt that our compilation of 400 Kahn designs, stretching as far back as 1888, makes the definitive case. In The Legacy of Albert Kahn, W. Hawkins Ferry writes, “Kahn either designed himself or closely supervised the design of every building he built.” Though Legacy is widely regarded as thee authoritative word on Kahn’s lifelong output, we can’t help but question Ferry’s assertion. The stunning volume of projects completed during Kahn’s lifetime (1869-1942) would seem to preclude intimate involvement in every single work that came out of his offices. We personally know of over 1,000 more pre-1943 buildings attributed to Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. that aren’t included in this most thorough accounting of Kahn’s designs you will find anywhere online. Could any one person produce so much in a single lifetime? We invite you to decide for yourself after examining the fruits of our research. ~I♥DM
(Editor’s Note: This massive five-page web post renders most efficiently using Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox as your browser. Throughout February and March of 2018 it will be undergoing an updating and also an expansion. When complete our database of Kahn commissions will include over 400 entries but our title will remain the same. Some images herein are reproduced under an assertion of fair use for purposes of research, education, and scholarship.) (Second major update completed, November 2020. ~Eds.)
[A note regarding currently active factory complexes and proving grounds: Obtaining access to these facilities for the purposes of determining the present disposition of Kahn designed structures within is exceptionally difficult. We know little to nothing regarding the condition of the buildings recounted in the following entries, or even if they still stand: #212, #265, #280, #281, #290, #292, #394, #403, #404, #405, #406, #407, #413.]
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1. Gilbert W. Lee Residence (1888; designed by Kahn while with Mason & Rice; demolished)
201 E. Ferry, Detroit
Source: “The Legacy Of Albert Kahn”, W. Hawkins Ferry, 2nd Edition, Wayne State University Press, 1987, pgs. 9, 29
Photos reproduced courtesy of Burton Historical Collection of the Detroit Public Library
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2. William Livingstone Residence aka ʺSlumpyʺ (1892-1893; designed by Kahn while with Mason & Rice; demolished 2007)
76 Eliot, Detroit
Source: “The Legacy Of Albert Kahn”, W. Hawkins Ferry, 2nd Edition, Wayne State University Press, 1987, pgs. 9, 31
Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. file photo
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3. Interiors of Hiram Walker & Sons Offices (1894; designed by Kahn while with Mason & Rice)
2072 Riverside Drive, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: “Walkerville Heritage Walking Tour“, a PDF document published online at www.citywindsor.ca
Photo shows second floor tasting room
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4. Watson M. Freer Residence (1895; designed by Kahn while with Mason & Rice; demolished)
111 E. Ferry, Detroit
Source: “The Legacy Of Albert Kahn”, W. Hawkins Ferry, 2nd Edition, Wayne State University Press, 1987, pgs. 9, 32
Photos reproduced courtesy of Burton Historical Collection of the Detroit Public Library
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5. Bethany Presbyterian Chapel (1897; Nettleton, Kahn & Trowbridge)
7835 E. Lafayette, Detroit
Source: “The American Architect & Building News”, Vol. 58, No. 1147, December 15, 1897, pg. 98
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6. Bernard Ginsburg Residence (1898; Nettleton & Kahn)
236 Adelaide, Detroit
Source: https://npgallery.nps.gov/AssetDetail/NRIS/91001015 AND Detroit Free Press, January 1, 1899, pg. 7
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7. James E. Scripps Residence Boiler House (1898; Nettleton & Kahn)
Grand River & Trumbull, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, July 10, 1898, pg. 26 AND August 8, 1898, pg. 20 AND Jan. 1, 1899, pg. 7
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8. James E. Scripps Residence Library and Art Gallery (1898; Nettleton & Kahn; demolished 1967)
Grand River & Trumbull, Detroit
This building was originally constructed on the grounds of Scripps’ private residence at the northeast corner of Grand River & Trumbull. It was dismantled and reconstructed on the southwest corner in the 1920s, and thereafter used as a branch of the Detroit Public Library until its razing in 1967.
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
Photo reproduced courtesy of Burton Historical Collection of the Detroit Public Library
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9. Grace Hospital Helen Newberry Nurses’ Home (1898; Nettleton & Kahn)
Southwest corner of John R & Willis, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, September 25, 1898, pg. 9
This structure’s design has been incorrectly attributed on occasion to Elijah Meyers, the architect of Michigan’s State Capitol in Lansing, most likely because he also designed the original Harper Hospital directly across the street.
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[Below: An historical illustration of the Grace Hospital Helen Newberry Nurses’ Home reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, November 25, 1898]
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10. Stephen A. Griggs Residence (1898; Nettleton & Kahn; demolished)
72 Seward, Detroit
Source: “The Inland Architect and News Record”, December 1898, Vol. XXXII, No. 5, pg. 50; photo reprinted from same
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11. H.W. Noble Residence (1898; Nettleton & Kahn; demolished)
127 Seward, Detroit
Source: “The Inland Architect and News Record”, March 1899, Vol. XXXIII, No. 2, pg. 20; photo reprinted from same
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12. Lander S. Harris Residence (1898; Nettleton & Kahn; demolished)
614 Pingree, Detroit
Source: “The Inland Architect and News Record”, Dec. 1898, Vol. XXXII, No. 5, pg. 50; photo reprinted from same
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13. Joseph R. McGlaughlin Residence (1899; Nettleton & Kahn; Remodeled by Smith, Hinchman & Grylls, 1911)
121 E. Boston, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, May 14, 1899, pg. 11 AND Detroit Free Press, Dec. 31, 1899, pg. 9
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14. Charles S. Chapman Residence aka ʺOak Bluffʺ (c.1899; Nettleton & Kahn; demolished)
714 N. Main, Rochester
Source: Detroit Free Press, August 27, 1899, pg. 6
Digital image snipped from: http://rochesteravonhistory.blogspot.com
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[Below: An historical illustration of the Charles S. Chapman Residence reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, August 27, 1899]
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15. Professor Edward DeMille Campbell Residence (1899; Nettleton & Kahn)
1555 Washtenaw, Ann Arbor
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan
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16. George Headley Residence (1898; Nettleton & Kahn)
82 King, Detroit
Source: “The Inland Architect and News Record”, November 1898, Vol. 32, No. 4
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[Below: Two historical photos of the George Headley Residence reprinted from the November 1898 issue of “The Inland Architect and News Record”.]
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17. Ella Thayer Residence (1899; Nettleton & Kahn)
1386 E. Jefferson, Detroit
Source: National Register of Historic Places Reference #85003608
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18. Sigma Phi Fraternity House (1900; Nettleton & Kahn; demolished)
426 N. Ingalls, Ann Arbor
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan AND Detroit Free Press, September 10, 1900, pg. 11 AND Detroit Free Press, October 21, 1900, pg. 4
Digital image snipped from http://www.flickr.com/photos/70251312@N00/7859144546/
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[Below: An historical illustration of the Sigma Phi Fraternity House reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, June 18, 1899]
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[Below: An historical image of the Sigma Phi Fraternity House from the back side. Library of Congress file photo.]
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19. Pierson Apartments (1900; Nettleton & Kahn; demolished)
2546-2550 Woodward, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, September 3, 1899, pg. 11; illustration reprinted from same
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[Below: An historical image of the Pierson Apartments. Photo reproduced courtesy of Burton Historical Collection of the Detroit Public Library.]
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20. John M. Dwyer Residence now known as Arthur J. Rohde Agency (1900; Nettleton & Kahn)
2711 E. Jefferson, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
To the woefully misguided individual who made the decision to encase this structure in aluminum siding: May God have mercy on your soul.
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21. James D. Sanders Residence (1900; Nettleton & Kahn)
235 E. Boston, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, April 2, 1899, pg. 9 AND July 30, 1899, pg. 9
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22. J. Howard Muzzy Residence (c.1900; Nettleton & Kahn)
141 Owen, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, August 28, 1898, pg. 20
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23. Albert P. Sullivan Residence (c.1900-1901; Nettleton & Kahn)
99 Chandler, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, April 15, 1900, pg. 11 AND May 20, 1900, pg. 31
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24. Joseph Schrage Residence (1900-1901; Nettleton & Kahn)
1593 Cadillac Blvd, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, September 2, 1900, pg. 20 AND September 16, 1900, pg. 26
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25. Robert W. Smiley Residence (c.1901; Nettleton & Kahn)
996 Burns, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, April 14, 1901, pg. A2
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[Below: An historical illustration of the Robert W. Smiley Residence reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, April 14, 1901]
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26. Charles C. Hinchman Residence (1902; Nettleton & Kahn)
1042 Seminole, Detroit
Source: “Homes of Indian Village”, a database compiled by multiple Indian Village residents for inclusion in the neighborhood’s National Register of Historic Places application, 1973, unpublished
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27. Robert L. Robertson Residence now known as New Center Real Estate, Inc. (1901; Mason & Kahn)
3040 E. Grand Blvd, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, May 26, 1901, pg. 19
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28. George A. Robinson Residence (1901-1902; Mason & Kahn)
70 Virginia Park, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, October 13, 1901, pg. 11
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29.“The Palms” Apartment House aka J.B. Book Apartment Building (1902; Mason & Kahn)
1001 E. Jefferson, Detroit
Source: “AIA Guide to Detroit Architecture”, Eric J. Hill & John Gallagher, Wayne State University Press, 2003, pg. 232-233
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30. University of Michigan Hospital Psychopathic Ward Building (1902-1903; Mason & Kahn; demolished)
University of Michigan Hospital Campus, Ann Arbor
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan
Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. file photo
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31. Frederick L. Colby Detroit Residence No. 1 (1902; Mason & Kahn)
1059 Seminole, Detroit
Source: “Homes of Indian Village”, a database compiled by multiple Indian Village residents for inclusion in the neighborhood’s National Register of Historic Places application, 1973, unpublished
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32. “The Woodward” Apartments (1902; Mason & Kahn; demolished)
Approximately 30 E. Forest, Detroit
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan
Photo reproduced courtesy of Burton Historical Collection of the Detroit Public Library
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33. Century Association Clubhouse now known as Century Theater (c.1902; Mason & Kahn; George Mason-designed Gem Theater added in 1927; entire building moved from Witherell & Columbia in 1997)
333 Madison, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, April 27, 1902, pg. 11-12
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[Below: An historical illustration of the Century Association Clubhouse reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, April 27, 1902]
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34. Detroit Racquet Club (1902)
626 Woodbridge, Detroit
Source: “AIA Guide to Detroit Architecture”, Eric J. Hill & John Gallagher, Wayne State University Press, 2003, pg. 28-29
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35. Hebrew Free School aka Talmud Torah Institute (1901-1902; demolished)
Division St between Beaubien & St. Antoine, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, October 21, 1900, pg. 30
Illustration reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, April 7, 1902, pg. 2
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36. Delta Upsilon Fraternity House (1902-1903; remodeled and altered after fire, c.2012)
1331 Hill, Ann Arbor
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan
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37. Old Temple Beth El now known as Bonstelle Theatre (1903)
3424 Woodward, Detroit
Source: “AIA Guide to Detroit Architecture”, Eric J. Hill & John Gallagher, Wayne State University Press, 2003, pg. 110-111
In 1936, the façade of the Old Temple Beth El was altered in a less than aesthetically flawless fashion to accommodate a widening of Woodward Avenue.
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[Below: An historic image of the Old Temple Beth El as it appeared in its younger days. Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. file photo.]
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38. Packard Motor Car Company Plant – Original Buildings (c.1903-1904; demolished)
1580 E. Grand Blvd, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
Kahn’s first round of designs for the Packard Plant were built in full masonry and precede the technological advances in reinforced concrete that characterize his extant, post-1908 work at this site. The last vestiges of these structures were torn down by 1916. Our historical image of the Packard Plant as it appeared in those earliest years was snipped from: http://jsah.ucpress.edu/content/72/1/78.figures-only
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39. Jacques Lawrence aka John Lawrence Residence (1903)
407 E. Kingsley, Ann Arbor
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan AND Detroit Free Press, April 29, 1900, pg. 32
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40. Frederick Andrus Residence (1903)
1022 Seminole, Detroit
Source: “Homes of Indian Village”, a database compiled by multiple Indian Village residents for inclusion in the neighborhood’s National Register of Historic Places application, 1973, unpublished
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41. William E. Metzger Automobile Dealership now known as Lusk Albertson Building (First two floors 1903, Mason & Kahn; four floor addition 1906)
409 E. Jefferson, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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[Below: An historical illustration of the Metzger Automobile Dealership reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, February 15, 1903]
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42. Hannah Schloss Memorial Building & Jewish Institute (1903; 1908; demolished)
681 E. High, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
Digital image snipped from: https://detroitjewishcommunityarchives.wordpress.com/2014/09/15/the-jewish-federation-of-metropolitan-detroit-a-short-history/
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43. Superior Match Company Plant (1903; demolished)
Northwest corner of Buchanon & Lawton, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
Digital image snipped from: http://jsah.ucpress.edu/content/72/1/78.figures-only
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44. Belle Isle Aquarium (1904; Mason & Kahn and Nettleton & Kahn)
Near Loiter Way & Inselruhe, Belle Isle, Detroit
Source: “AIA Guide to Detroit Architecture”, Eric J. Hill & John Gallagher, Wayne State University Press, 2003, pg. 262-263
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45. Belle Isle Conservatory (1904; Mason & Kahn and Nettleton & Kahn)
Near Loiter Way & Inselruhe, Belle Isle, Detroit
Source: “AIA Guide to Detroit Architecture”, Eric J. Hill & John Gallagher, Wayne State University Press, 2003, pg. 264-265
Second photo by Michael G. Smith
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[Below: An historical illustration of the Belle Isle Conservatory reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, November 1, 1901]
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46. West Hall aka West Engineering Building (1904; Mason & Kahn)
Southeast corner of University of Michigan Central Campus Diag, Ann Arbor
Source: http://bentley.umich.edu/legacy-support/campus_tour/buildingslist.php
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47. Walkerville Town Hall (1904)
350 Devonshire, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: “Walkerville Heritage Walking Tour“, a PDF document published online at www.citywindsor.ca
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48. Hiram Walker Employee Houses – Multiple Structures (1904)
800 Block of Monmouth Road, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: “Walkerville Heritage Walking Tour“, a PDF document published online at www.citywindsor.ca
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49. Russell Sloman Residence (c.1904; demolished)
274 E. Hancock, Detroit
Source: “American Architect & Building News”, November 9, 1907, pg. 1663; photo reprinted from same
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50. Frank C. McMath Residence (1904)
1037 Iroquois, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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51. Detroit Savings Bank Branch (c.1904; demolished)
Approximately 11600 E. Jefferson, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
Digital image snipped from:
http://webapp1.dlib.indiana.edu/images/splash.htm?scope=images/VAC5094
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52. American Arithmometer Company Plant aka Burroughs Adding Machine Company Plant #1 (1904; demolished)
2nd & Amsterdam, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, July 24, 1904, pg. 7; illustration reprinted from same
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[An historical Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. drawing of the American Arithmometer Plant snipped from: http://jsah.ucpress.edu/content/72/1/78.figures-only]
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[The American Arithmometer Plant under construction in 1904. Digital image snipped from: http://jsah.ucpress.edu/content/72/1/78.figures-only]
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53. Burroughs Adding Machine Company Plant #2 (1905; demolished)
2nd & Amsterdam, Detroit
Source: “Manufacturers’ Record”, November 16, 1904, Vol. XLVIII, No. 18, pg. 460; photo reprinted from same
In 1905 the American Arithmometer Company changed its name to Burroughs Adding Machine Company and built their second Detroit plant directly to the southwest of the original 1904 plant pictured in the preceding entry.
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54. Woodlawn Cemetery Mortuary Chapel aka Rosa L. Parks Freedom Chapel (1905)
19975 Woodward, Detroit
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan
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55. Charles M. Swift Residence (1905; demolished)
17800 E. Jefferson @ Dodge Place, Grosse Pointe
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
Manning Brothers file photo
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56. Burnham S. Colburn Residence (c.1905)
1007 Burns, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, August 13, 1905, pg. 7
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[Below: A clipping of the Colburn Residence reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, May 4, 1919]
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57. San Telmo Cigar Company Plant #2 (1905; demolished)
Forest @ Garfield Pl, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, September 17, 1905, pg. 33; illustration reprinted from same
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58. Stephen A. Griggs Residence (c.1905-1907)
889 Kildare, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: “Walkerville Heritage Walking Tour“, a PDF document published online at www.citywindsor.ca
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59. Collegiate Sorosis House now known as Triangle Fraternity House (1905-1906)
1501 Washtenaw, Ann Arbor
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan
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60. King Edward School Entryway (1905; original school on Victoria Avenue demolished and new school built with historic entryway in 1993)
Approximately 851 Chilver, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: https://www.publicboard.ca/school/kingedward/About%20Us/Pages/School-History.aspx
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61. Arthur Kiefer Residence (1905)
1091 Seminole, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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62. Scripps Power Building (c.1905; unbuilt)
North side of Congress between 1st & 2nd, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, June 25, 1905, pg. B4; illustration reprinted from same
From June 2013 to March 2018 we erroneously reported this building as “demolished”. Further research has led us to the conclusion that it was, in fact, never built.
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63. Phoenix Club now known as King David Grand Lodge Masonic Temple (1905)
114 Erskine @ John R, Detroit
Source: Detroit Free Press, July 16, 1905, pg. 26
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[Below: An illustration of the Phoenix Club reprinted from the July 16, 1905 issue of the Detroit Free Press.]
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64. Willistead Manor aka E. Chandler Walker Residence (1906)
1899 Niagara, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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65. Willistead Manor Garage and Guesthouse (1906)
1899 Niagara, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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66. Willistead Manor Gatehouse (1906)
1899 Niagara, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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67. Andrew Ridout Residence (c.1906)
873 Kildare, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: “Walkerville Heritage Walking Tour“, a PDF document published online at www.citywindsor.ca
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68. Ferry Athletic Field Gate (1906; demolished)
University of Michigan Campus (Approximately where U of M’s baseball stadium now stands), Ann Arbor
Source: http://bentley.umich.edu/athdept/stadium/stadtext/ferry.htm
Photo reprinted from: “The American Architect” Vol. 98, No. 1812, September 14, 1910
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[Below: An historical photo of bricklayers standing before the newly constructed Ferry Athletic Field Gate. Digital image snipped from: http://bentley.umich.edu/athdept/stadium/stadtext/ferry.htm]
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69. Ambery-Isaacs Residence aka “Foxley” (1906-1907)
811 Devonshire, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: “Walkerville Heritage Walking Tour“, a PDF document published online at www.citywindsor.ca
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70. Albert Kahn Residence aka Detroit Urban League (1906)
208 Mack, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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71. Allen F. Edwards Residence (1906)
1032 Seminole, Detroit
Source: “Homes of Indian Village”, a database compiled by multiple Indian Village residents for inclusion in the neighborhood’s National Register of Historic Places application, 1973, unpublished
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72. Gustavus D. Pope Residence (1906)
1040 Iroquois, Detroit
Source: “Homes of Indian Village”, a database compiled by multiple Indian Village residents for inclusion in the neighborhood’s National Register of Historic Places application, 1973, unpublished
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73. John Owen Residence (1906)
1411 Iroquois, Detroit
Source: “Homes of Indian Village”, a database compiled by multiple Indian Village residents for inclusion in the neighborhood’s National Register of Historic Places application, 1973, unpublished
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74. Arthur M. Pelletrean Residence (1906)
1424 Iroquois, Detroit
Source: “Homes of Indian Village”, a database compiled by multiple Indian Village residents for inclusion in the neighborhood’s National Register of Historic Places application, 1973, unpublished
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75. Cranbrook House also known as George Gough and Ellen Scripps Booth Residence (1907)
380 Lone Pine Rd, Bloomfield Hills
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
Photo © Dale Carlson and Cranbrook Educational Community; Published with Permission from Cranbrook Center for Collections and Research.
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76. Bank of Commerce (1907)
415 Devonshire, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Source: “Walkerville Heritage Walking Tour“, a PDF document published online at www.citywindsor.ca
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77. John F. Bush Residence (1907)
1410 Iroquois, Detroit
Source: “Homes of Indian Village”, a database compiled by multiple Indian Village residents for inclusion in the neighborhood’s National Register of Historic Places application, 1973, unpublished
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78. Francis ‘Fred’ Holt Residence (c.1907)
250 E. Boston, Detroit
Source: “The Inland Architect and News Record”, 1906, Vol. 48, No. 1
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79. Country Club of Detroit Clubhouse No. 1 (1907; demolished 1920s)
12 Lakeshore Rd, Grosse Pointe Farms
Source: “The Brickbuilder”, April 1910, Vol. 19, No. 4, Plate 46
From June of 2013 to March of 2018 I♥DM erroneously reported the location of this structure as “Fisher Road & E. Jefferson, Detroit”. While the intersection was more or less correct, we were obviously way off on the municipality.
Library of Congress file photo
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[Below: Historical photographs and plans of the Country Club of Detroit’s 1st clubhouse reprinted from the April 1910 issue of “The Brickbuilder”]
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80. Cook Farm Company Building aka Trussed Concrete Building aka Truscon Building aka Owen & Company Furniture Building (1907; demolished 1957)
Northeast corner of Wayne (now Washington Blvd) & Lafayette, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. file photo
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[Below: An historical illustration of the Truscon Building reprinted from the Detroit News Tribune, January 27, 1907]
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81. Lewis H. Jones Residence (c.1907; Moved from 8191 E. Jefferson, Detroit to its present location in 1920s)
41 Provencal, Grosse Pointe Farms
Source: ʺAlbert Kahn Era Projectsʺ, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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82. Chalmers Motor Car Company Offices and Plant (1907; demolished)
South side of E. Jefferson between Lycaste and Canal, Detroit
Source: “The American Auto Factory”, Byron Olsen and Joseph P. Cabadas, MBI Publishing Company, St. Paul, 2002, pgs. 38-39
Photo reproduced courtesy of Burton Historical Collection of the Detroit Public Library
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83. Standard Auto Company Garage and Showroom now known as Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (1907)
Woodward & Garfield, Detroit
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan
Photo by Michael G. Smith
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84. Packard Motor Car Company Plant – Building No. 10 (1908-1909)
1580 E. Grand Blvd, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
Keep in mind while examining the years of construction we’ve reported here and in the entries below that nearly all of the buildings Kahn designed at the Packard Plant after 1905 utilized his company’s revolutionary advances in reinforced concrete technology that allowed for subsequent additions of entire floors. In the past we reported most of these post-1905 structures as “derelict” but a recent buyer’s attempts to renovate and revive the property compel us to modify our appraisal of their condition to “currently unknown”. (Listed for sale and in danger of demolition as of October 2020. ~Eds.)
Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. file photo
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85. Packard Motor Car Company Plant – Main Building (c.1908-1916)
1580 E. Grand Blvd, Detroit
Source: “Buildings”, Bryant & Detwiler Company, Detroit, 1921, pg. 8; photo reprinted from same
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[Below: An historical photograph of the Packard Plant’s Main Building reprinted from “Albert Kahn Architectural Catalog, October 1921”]
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86. Packard Motor Car Company Plant – Stock Building (1910-1921)
1580 E. Grand Blvd, Detroit
Source: “Buildings”, Bryant & Detwiler Company, Detroit, 1921, pg. 8; photo reprinted from same
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87. Packard Motor Car Company Plant – 2nd Powerhouse (c.1907)
1580 E. Grand Blvd, Detroit
Source: “Buildings”, Bryant & Detwiler Company, Detroit, 1921, pg. 28; photo reprinted from same
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88. Packard Motor Car Company Plant – Manufacturing Building (c.1908-1916)
1580 E. Grand Blvd, Detroit
Source: “Buildings”, Bryant & Detwiler Company, Detroit, 1921, pg. 11; photo reprinted from same
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89. Packard Motor Car Company Plant – Spare Parts Plant & Warehouse (c.1908-1916)
1580 E. Grand Blvd, Detroit
Source: “Buildings”, Bryant & Detwiler Company, Detroit, 1921, pg. 11; photo reprinted from same
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[Below: The Packard Motor Car Company Spare Parts Plant and Warehouse as it appeared in 1917. Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. file photo]
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90. Packard Motor Car Company Plant – Manufacturing Building (c.1908-1916)
1580 E. Grand Blvd, Detroit
Source: “Buildings”, Bryant & Detwiler Company, Detroit, 1921, pg. 11; photo reprinted from same
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91. Garfield Building aka Edwin S. George Building (1st & 2nd floors 1909; top 3 floors 1914)
4612 Woodward, Detroit
Source: “AIA Guide to Detroit Architecture”, Eric J. Hill & John Gallagher, Wayne State University Press, 2003, pgs. 114-115
Photo by Michael G. Smith
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[Below: An historical illustration of the Garfield Building reprinted from the Detroit Free Press, January 17, 1909]
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92. Parke-Davis Laboratory Building – 4th Story Addition (1908)
400 River Place Dr, Detroit
Source: “AIA Guide to Detroit Architecture”, Eric J. Hill & John Gallagher”, Wayne State University Press, 2003, pg. 242
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93. Parke-Davis Laboratory Building – 4th Story Addition (1908)
500 River Place Dr, Detroit
Source: “AIA Guide to Detroit Architecture”, Eric J. Hill & John Gallagher, Wayne State University Press, 2003, pg. 242
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94. Grinnell Brothers Music Store Building (1908)
1515-1521 Woodward, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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[Below: An historical image of the Grinnell Brothers Music Store. Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. file photo]
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95. Cranbrook House Tower Cottage (1908; altered by Burrowes & Wells 1913; altered by Swanson & Booth 1925)
380 Lone Pine, Bloomfield Hills
Source: “The Campus Guide: Cranbrook”, Kathryn Bishop Eckert, Princeton Architectural Press, 2001, pgs. 29-30
Photo © Dale Carlson and Cranbrook Educational Community; Published with Permission from Cranbrook Center for Collections and Research.
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96. James Edmund Scripps Memorial (1908)
Woodmere Cemetery, 9400 Fort, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
We personally examined the historical architectural drawing held by Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. that prove this memorial came out of their offices. Have your own first-hand look at this memorial through the slightly dusty glass doors of the Scripps Mausoleum at Woodmere Cemetery in Southwest Detroit.
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97. American Electrical Heater Company Building aka American Beauty Electric Irons Company Building (1908; demolished 2012)
6110 Cass, Detroit
Source: “The Architectural Record”, July 1912, Volume 1, No. 7, pg. 82
Photo by Michael G. Smith
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[Below: An historical architectural drawing of the American Electrical Heater Company Building reprinted from the June 19, 1912 issue of “The American Architect”]
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98. Senator James J. Couzens Detroit Residence (1909; 1922)
Northwest corner of 2nd & Longfellow, Detroit
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan
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99. Hugh Chalmers Residence (1909-1910)
1453 Iroquois, Detroit
Source: Albert Kahn Papers, Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan
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100. Herman Krolik Residence (1909-1910)
226 Mack, Detroit
Source: ‘Albert Kahn Era Projects’, Albert Kahn Associates, Inc. Internal List of Commissions, unpublished
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phenomenal- we love Albert Kahn here in Walkerville- as you can see he launched his career here (second commission)
Thanks for reading!!
Thanks for reading!!
I just saw this gallery in the Detroit News online. Check out pic 11/33 in the slide show. The Ford Rotunda. I didn’t see this in your article and it is an awesome photo. http://apps.detroitnews.com/apps/multimedia/gallery.php?id=14402
Entry #374, Bro. I am pretty sure no one will be informing me of any Kahn commissions that I don’t already know of for the rest of my life.
These are higher resolution images. Also, how does the Det News slideshow with 33 images equal the 400 high res images here?
It cannot.
This is awesome! My dad worked as an apprentice to Albert Kahn as a young man. He told me that Kahn was color blind and when he rode with him he had to tell him what color the traffic lights were. He loved it and would have stayed but the depression hit. He got a job with Chrysler, eventually becoming an engineer (without a degree). He worked there until he retired in 1973. He passed away on January 8, 2013 at the age of 99.
Your Dad sounds like he was an amazing guy, Kathy! I imagine he earned all 40 years of that retirement! Lol! Thanks so much for reading what we believe is our best post ever. Glad you enjoyed it! D~
Excellent article. Have a question about a potential Kahn building not among the 400. How can i contact you?
Thanks for reading, northville historian. You can write us at info@ilovedetroitmichigan.com. We’d love to interrogate you about the old Northville Psychiatric Hospital grounds at 7 Mile & Haggerty. We hear there may be a Kahn or two amongst the many unused buildings therein.
I’ve visted most of these places!
I’ve actually seen a brochure published by Ford Motor Co., promoting the River Rouge plant when it was brand new (twenties?), possibly it may have photos, paintings, or drawings showing the Kahn buildings?
Unfortunately, like so much of Detroit’s heritage, so many of Kahn’s buildings are gone. Even better-known (nationally/internationally) architects like Wright suffered the same fate, and were demolished for parking lots, etc., before the value of their work was recgonized. As a Canadian, I note he designed a lot of buildings also in Windsor & vicinity!
Wow. We’d love to have a look at that. Drop us a line if you ever get an opportunity to scan your own shareable copy. -Eds
Hello Dale:
Was wondering if you have information on a building claimed to be an Albert Kahn design at 1745 E. Grand Boulevard. Some folks think it was a Packard building as it is very close to the Packard Plant.
By the way, I am the president of the Packard Motor Car Foundation and if you want better photos of our Kahn buildings, then I want to invite you to our Open House on Sunday, October 19 from 1;00 PM to 5:00 PM. If I had your e-mail, then I could send you a flyer.
Sincerely, Roger Luksik
Sorry Roger, We’re currently on hiatus here at ILDM due to the health concerns of our biggest benefactor. Wish I could’ve made it to your open house, but we haven’t logged on in weeks and are just now seeing your comment for the first time. Perhaps the next one??
We have been told our home is an Albert Kahn Home. The original owner was a friend of Edsel Ford. It is a 10,000 sq. foot home in Flint, built in 1929. Can you tell us how we can verify if it is an Albert Kahn home? I did send a picture to the listed email address. THANK YOU
According to Zillow, the home located at 185 Dourdan in Bloomfield Hills, MI (the original mansion on the estate before the land was subdivided) is an Albert Kahn design. Not sure how to confirm this though…
Thanks for your comment, Nick. My first recommendation would be to contact the current listing agent and personally ask them for the source of their claim. I can tell you that I own a very thorough list of Albert Kahn-era designs that was compiled and given to me by current employees of Albert Kahn Associates, Inc., and this home is not on it…..but I can also tell you that the database is not infallible and there are quite a few example of confirmed Kahn designs that are also not on it. Please write us at info@ilovedetroitmichigan.com if you run into more roadblocks while researching this home’s architect of record….or if you confirm it’s a Kahn!
Mr. Carlson, Dale,
This is an amazing amount of work – well done! I gather that you’re working on some attributions. Are most of those Indian Village houses attributed, or speculated by owners? Of course lots of owners understandably want to tag their structure with the Kahn signature. My recollection of the AKA company list is that some “projects” seemed to be either renovations to works of others, or perhaps they were passed down to lesser hands. Speaking of which, I found it impossible to discern from the AKA records the extent to which Kahn himself was involved in a given building’s design. This is not uncommon in large practices with lots of designers – akin to the production houses of some of the great painters in history. We can be pretty sure about the iconic few and less sure about the next tiers. BTW, I think you’re probably more correct about the Casino than we were – probably a moment of charitable salve on our part. Lastly, I was unaware of Dr. Edgar Kahn’s retreat – what a hoot! You have added significantly to the archive.
Thanks for reading, Eric. Those are some important questions, for sure. I am presently unable to devote the time necessary to write the quality answers they deserve. Let’s have a phone conversation. I’ll be emailing you. D~
Dear Mr. Carlson,
Fantastic work you have done here!
I am looking for some information and I hope you can point me in the right direction.
I am in search of information about a possible home that Albert Kahn may have built around 1916 for Ransom Eli Olds on Elba Island in Grosse Ille Township. I was reading a blog where someone mentioned this an provided a photo but was uncertain if he was just making a comment and not referring to the photo.
Also, I was reading an interview with R.E. Olds granddaughter and she said this : I was born at Elbamar which is at the very south end of Grosse Ile right where it goes in to Lake Erie. That was Grandpa Olds’ summer home. She was born in 1918. Any information you might have or if you are able to direct me to a resource would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance for you time and assistance if possible.
Sincerely,
R. Scot
Robert, Thanks for reading ilovedetroitmichigan.com. Please see entry #402 on our list for the answer to your question. ~Eds
I have a fence in the front of my house that I was told (by the owner I bought the house from, the owner before him put the fence in) was from an older mansion along the river. The owner put the fence in likely in the 60’s (I have an installation drawing I can check). I was always curious as to where it came from, and then noticed this weekend that the castings in my fence are identical to those in the railings of the garden court apartments (number 156 above). Any idea what home the fence could have come from? Would I assume that it was a Kahn home that was demolished?
That’s an awfully tough one to prove, Dave. While it could be a minor indicator of the original architect, it is more likely that the fence was fabricated by a completely different company than the architect’s and the fence design was used at two different places by two different architects purely by coincidence. Very hard to say for certain. Compare your fence to entry #93 in our list. If there are similarities, I would be more likely to think your fence suggests AKA Inc. might’ve been involved in your lot’s development at some point.
Hello,
I am trying to find a picture of what I believe is a Kahn building. It is owned now by Tim Tharp (Checkers, Grand Trunk Pub). My husband is building an office inside and I would like to get him a nice original print. It was a dealership. They are now calling it the Kahn Cadillac. I’ve toured it and at one time it was clearly a beauty. There is a damaged pewabic pottery fountain inside if that helps. Any thoughts?
Thanks,
Beth
I think your articles are great ! I was at a estate sale t his week and in the basement of this old home was a old bed beautiful , I took it home and as I was setting it down the slats of the bed in big bold letters Bryant an Detwilder company Woodard gratiot Hudson building . Do you know anything about that????? As I was investigating I ran across you blog .
Hi Patti, Thanks for reading ilovedetroitmichigan.com. We can’t tell you much about the Bryant & Detwiler Corporation except for the fact that they were builders in the Detroit Area in the first half of the 20th century. We know nothing of the other product they fabricated but it appears, based upon your discovery, that they made bed frames, too. Ha! Who knew? We do possess a digital version of an old catalog of their constructions from the era in which they are referenced in our Albert Kahn: 400 Buildings post. Write us at info@ilovedetroitmichigan.com if you’d like a copy. ~Eds
Are you ever available to speak about Albert Kahn?
Thanks for reading ILDM, Mary Jane. We have addresses your inquiry with a private email. We look forward to your reply.
Dear Dale Carlson, I am an architectural historian teaching at UM, and I am doing a seminar on Albert Kahn this semester. We’ve been appreciating your website immensely this semester, as I have previously. I wanted to make contact with you–if you get this, and are interested, could you send me an email?
Many thanks, Claire Zimmerman
Thank you for celebrating Albert Kahn’s work.
Since more than 25 years I’m involved in his life and work – the outcome of this is my film ALBERT KAHN ARCHITECT OF MODERN TIMES. (You can watch it in english under http://www.filmmedia.de / architektur)
As Claire Zimmerman, I’m teaching architectural master students here in Germany – this semester about Kahn’s 1891 journey through Italy and the next semester about Albert Kahn and Albert Speer. Both Seminars are part of our preparation to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Albert Kahn’s death.
I would very much like to get in contact with you.
Thanks, greetings from Marcello
Dear Mr. Carlson. I’ve enjoyed your website immensely. I’ve seen in the press a handful attributions of 2937 E. Grand Blvd. to Kahn recently but have not been able to verify the claim. Was wondering what you thought and if you’ve ever looked into it?
Thanks for reading and commenting, J. Schmidt. We intend to do a little research on this subject, and we’ll be starting with the staff at “Curbed Detroit”, who appear to us to be the only online source claiming this building is an AKA Inc. design. We’ll let you know what we find out in the coming weeks.
You might want to check the location of “The Woodward” Apartments (1902; Mason & Kahn; demolished) judging by the picture the building was on a corner and judging by the shadows in the image it was located on the north east corner, unless the image was mirrored in which the building would have been on the north west side. The current building that occupies modern day Woodward and forest in the northeast corner has been there pre-1900’s and those roads surely have not changed. it’s more likely that the building was located at Woodward an Canfield, but thats just a guess. Could be something interesting to look into.
#119 Boyer-Campbell building WAS on West Milwaukee. Boyer-Campbell Co. built their first building at 6547 St. Antoine. If you go there, in person or on Google Maps, you can still see “The Boyer Campbell Co.” over the door. I do not know if it is an Albert Khan building, but I do know that General Motors had used some of the Boyer-Campbell offices in this building while the GM building was under construction. I used to work for Boyer-Campbell. Also, to Roger Luksik who wrote you on Oct. 11, 2013, there is a building at 2843 E. Grand Blvd. that was a Packard dealership. There is a very large automobile elevator in it and extremely well built second level floor. It still stands, but it has been turned into a loft apartment building.
Great effort! I owned an Albert Kahn residence at 141O Iroquois from 166 to 1975. I upgraded the heating system, completely renovated the kitchen, decorated the first two floors completely and had some rewiring done. The house was truly enjoyable for those years. I moved to Southern California and sold the house to a veterinarian who wanted to be closer to the pet market in the Grosse Points.