Friday, January 1, 2016

Michigan Central Station
Corktown
Detroit, MI


The Michigan Central Station is located just off of Michigan Avenue in the Corktown area of Detroit.  When traveling into Downtown Detroit from the West, especially via the Jefferies, it is one of the first structures one sees along with the Ambassador Bridge.

Michigan Central Station was built and placed into service in 1913 and remained in service until 1988.  This structure represents the Beaux-Arts architecture and was designed by the same company that also designed New York's Grand Central Station.  

From 1988 to date, it has been in a state of decay as it turned into an icon of the state of the City of Detroit.  In the heyday of the railroads, it was the first stop for an untold number of visitors and future Detroit residents.

Since 1988, it has been featured in Hollywood movies (Transformers), TV shows (Detroit 187), music videos (Beautiful by Eminem) and a site for urban explorers.  Back in the late '80's/early '90's, it was also a popular location for Detroit Techno Music parties.  

Nowadays it is a popular photo op location for both amateur and professional photographers.  Roosevelt Park, located in front of the station, is the focal point for several events & festivals during the year, including the Tour de Troit bike ride.  http://www.tour-de-troit.org/tourdetroitride

After several years of inactivity and being used as a political pawn by its billionaire owner, it is now undergoing a window replacement project.  What will happen to this structure in the future remains to be seen.  It does appear that it has received a stay of destruction and possibly due to the redevelopment of the local Corktown area, may finally see a usage plan.

The Michigan Central Station is not open for tours but if one is visiting one of the several social/entertainment establishments in Corktown, cruise by and visit a part of the City of Detroit history.







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