The online e-magazine Model D has featured the writing of Frank Arvan – a Royal Oak-based architect – on Creating Creative Culture in Detroit: http://www.modeldmedia.com/features/creatingcc.aspx Using Detroit’s perhaps most noted innovation – mass production of the automobile – as an example, he suggested the need for new transportation technologies, new sustainable energy research, music, the … Read more
Here is a thought to inspire discussion… Contemporary methods of construction are reliant on electricity, the internal combustion engine, and complex technological devices to accomplish many of the same tasks that previously were accomplished with far simpler tools and methods. What potential does a revival of traditional tools and methods have on issues of sustainability? … Read more
Among the most visually attractive and innovative uses of interactive technology to interpret historical sites is Colonial Williamsburg’s Tour the Town component at:http://www.history.org/visit/tourTheTown/flash.cfm Here a Flash map with Birdseye View allows users to zoom in and out and click on buildings to pull up short and detailed profiles about them. This model has the potential … Read more
Plans for Tiger Stadium appear to be gaining momentum. Adding 10 acres of nearby surface parking lots to the plan is being considered. Museums for Detroit-oriented music, and another for baseball memorabilia have been proposed. When speaking about why he is pursuing these plans, Harwell is quoted as saying: “In America, we have a tendency … Read more
Preservationist and music venue operator Blair McGowan was featured on the Detroit Today program on 101.9FM today. McGowan cited the rising wave of interest in historic preservation – especially focusing on tax credits which have the potential of paying for up to 25% of redevelopment costs for historic resources. He cited succecss in Midtown and … Read more
In 2007, an effort was made to encourage civic unity in the communities lining the 26 mile long Woodward Avenue between downtown Detroit and Pontiac. Citizens gathered and held hands. While a continuous line was not possible, there were many spirited pockets. The Madam Cadillac dance company added to the sense of historic happening with … Read more
A complex of buildings in downtown Pontiac were repurposed through adaptive reuse and opened as a performance venue by preservationist Blair McGowan in August 2007. A conscious effort was made to leave as much of the historic fabric intact as possible. This is a similar strategy employed by Preservation Hall in New Orleans. The main … Read more
The Metropolitan Methodist Church cornerstone, for this building constructed in 1922. Pointed arch entrance with trumeau dividing a pair of double doors to either side. A mural showing the circuit rider, “Francis Asbury The Apostle of the Long Trail.” Early Methodists in America would spread the gospel riding on horse from home to home and … Read more
A wooden bridge was built nearby in 1828 to carry traffic from Detroit and Pontiac to the village of Ann Arbor. Lower Town is near where the trails of the Potawatomi and other Indian tribes crossed the Huron River. Anson Brown’s Exchange Block was built in 1832. This is the oldest surviving commercial building in … Read more
Probably the most impressive historic building in Almont is the First Congregational Church. The prominent tower and spire, steeply pitched roof, and wall buttresses all combine to create a strong architectural statement. Downtown Almont is fortunate to have a number of attractive two and three-story brick buildings. A handful have been covered up with a … Read more