Detroit City Hall

Detroit City Hall was a government building in the city center located between Griswold Street, Michigan Avenue, Woodward Avenue, and Fort Street, featuring cream-colored walls made of Amherst Sandstone. The three-story structure contained administrative offices and a bell tower equipped with an observation level for visitors.

Construction began in 1867 and was completed in 1871 as a major civic investment for the growing city. The building stood for about 90 years before being demolished in 1961.

The building displayed sculptures of local figures including Father Gabriel Richard and Antoine Cadillac, created by Detroit artists to represent the city's founding and religious heritage. These works were visible to visitors and served as public reminders of the people who shaped the community.

The building was centrally located with easily accessible street boundaries, making it a clear landmark in the business district. The tower's observation platform allowed visitors to view the city from above, adding to its appeal as a destination.

The tower housed one of the largest timekeeping mechanisms of its era, engineered by clockmaker W.A. Hendrie. The timepiece operated with a 57-kilogram (125-pound) pendulum and represented a remarkable feat of 19th-century engineering.

Location: Michigan

Inception: 1871

Floors above the ground: 3

GPS coordinates: 42.33040,-83.04550

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:03