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13 The Packard Pland, Detroit Michigan
The Packard Plant, located on East Grand Boulevard in Detroit, Michigan, was once a symbol of American industrial prowess. Opened in 1903 by the Packard Motor Car Company, the factory became one of the largest and most advanced automobile manufacturing plants of its time. Designed by the architect Albert Kahn, it was a sprawling complex covering over 40 acres, consisting of multiple buildings connected by an intricate system of railways and assembly lines. The plant was at the forefront of automotive innovation, producing luxury vehicles and employing thousands of workers. Throughout the early 20th century, Packard cars were synonymous with quality and craftsmanship, catering to an elite clientele. At its peak, the Packard Plant was a hub of activity, contributing significantly to Detroit’s status as the "Motor City."
However, the decline of the Packard Motor Car Company in the mid-20th century led to the eventual abandonment of the plant. By the 1950s, competition from other automakers, changing consumer tastes, and financial mismanagement led to Packard’s demise. In 1956, the company ceased operations at the plant, and the building fell into disrepair. Despite various attempts to revitalize the site, including plans for residential and commercial development, the Packard Plant remains a striking symbol of Detroit's industrial past. The site became an iconic ruin, attracting photographers, urban explorers, and those fascinated by the history of the automobile industry.
As of March 2025, all but 2 of the buildings have been demolished
The Packard Plant, located on East Grand Boulevard in Detroit, Michigan, was once a symbol of American industrial prowess. Opened in 1903 by the Packard Motor Car Company, the factory became one of the largest and most advanced automobile manufacturing plants of its time. Designed by the architect Albert Kahn, it was a sprawling complex covering over 40 acres, consisting of multiple buildings connected by an intricate system of railways and assembly lines. The plant was at the forefront of automotive innovation, producing luxury vehicles and employing thousands of workers. Throughout the early 20th century, Packard cars were synonymous with quality and craftsmanship, catering to an elite clientele. At its peak, the Packard Plant was a hub of activity, contributing significantly to Detroit’s status as the "Motor City."
However, the decline of the Packard Motor Car Company in the mid-20th century led to the eventual abandonment of the plant. By the 1950s, competition from other automakers, changing consumer tastes, and financial mismanagement led to Packard’s demise. In 1956, the company ceased operations at the plant, and the building fell into disrepair. Despite various attempts to revitalize the site, including plans for residential and commercial development, the Packard Plant remains a striking symbol of Detroit's industrial past. The site became an iconic ruin, attracting photographers, urban explorers, and those fascinated by the history of the automobile industry.
As of March 2025, all but 2 of the buildings have been demolished
14 Detroit
15 Detroit Nightshots
16 Detroit Nightshots
17 Detroit Nightshots
18 St Agnes Church
19 Hamtramck Labor Day Festival
20 Detroit
21 There are few details about Ruthruff School on Chicago and Livernois. It was designed by McGrath, Dohmen & Pagebuilt in Tudor Revival style, with construction starting in 1925, possibly replacing an earlier building. Several nearby storefronts along Chicago were converted into an annex, and attached to the gymnasium by a walkway.
In the 1980's and 90's the school was known as the Ruthruff Adult Education. Sometime in the late 1990's or early 2000's, the school became the new home of the Malcolm X Academy program, an African-centric school, until the building was closed in 2006.
In 2007 the Last Chance Academy leased the school until they moved to a different location in 2010. It was vacated afterwards and has been abandoned since.
In the 1980's and 90's the school was known as the Ruthruff Adult Education. Sometime in the late 1990's or early 2000's, the school became the new home of the Malcolm X Academy program, an African-centric school, until the building was closed in 2006.
In 2007 the Last Chance Academy leased the school until they moved to a different location in 2010. It was vacated afterwards and has been abandoned since.
22 In 1834 Greenfield Township built a small school at the corner of Grand River and Schaffer. By 1901 the school had been named for Peter G. Monnier, a farmer who owned land nearby and whose kids attended the school. The original school was torn down in 1907 and replaced with a brick building. As the township continued to expand it quickly outgrew the school, and a larger site on Schoolcraft further east was selected. As work on the new building got underway in 1923 the township was annexed into the City of Detroit, which took over the incomplete building and opened it in 1924.
Sometime around 1973 a single-story steel frame addition was built onto the side of the school. The addition was demolished sometime before 1999. Monnier closed in 2007 due to low enrollment.
Sometime around 1973 a single-story steel frame addition was built onto the side of the school. The addition was demolished sometime before 1999. Monnier closed in 2007 due to low enrollment.
23 Albert Stephens Elementary School was built in 1913 and was located at 6006 Seneca Street at the corner of Lambert Street, on Detroit’s lower east side. Stephens Elementary School was a large, two and three-story structure that was designed in a Chicago School architectural style by noted-architect Wirt Rowland.
Stephens Elementary School had a red-brick exterior with a concrete border-lines between the separate floors of the school. The façade of Stephens Elementary School also featured stone-bordering and quoins around the exterior of the stairwell windows, as well as stone-crest designs at the top of each entrance. Each of the stone-crest designs crowned and overlooked the entrances and stood out as one of the school’s most prominent exterior features. Above the main entrance to Stephens Elementary School, the stone-crest design read “ABLERT STEPHENS SCHOOL MCMXIII,” as the letters were carved into the stone. Stephens Elementary School had a slight “A-shaped” floor plan that consisted of administration offices, classrooms, a gymnasium, and an auditorium. Throughout the years, Stephens Elementary School served an average of 700 students from kindergarten through sixth grade. Albert Stephens Elementary School was named after Mr. Albert Stephens, who was the property owner of the land that Stephens Elementary School was built upon. Alumni and former students of Stephens Elementary School were known as the “Stephens Eagles,” as their school mascot was a eagle. Stephens Elementary School was a property of the Detroit Public Schools system.
Stephens Elementary School was “flagged” for closure by Detroit Public Schools due to low enrollment and expensive maintenance costs. Stephens Elementary School had always had a steady enrollment, but by the 2000’s the number dropped down to below 300 students. Stephens Elementary School also had trouble with maintaining the expensive and necessary repairs to the near 100 year-old school. With Stephens Elementary School using only approximately 50% of the school’s capacity, it became apparent that something needed to be done. With the drastic decrease in enrollment and combination of high operation costs, it was evident that Stephens Elementary School was in deep trouble. In 2010, Stephens Elementary School was forced to close its doors for good.
When Stephens Elementary School closed in 2010, the school was one of the original Detroit Public School (DPS) properties that was chosen by DPS to get the Vacant Property Security (VPS), in other words, large sheets of metal to cover the doors and windows, that are designed to help keep scrappers and trespassers out of vacant property. So all of the school’s doors and windows on the first floor and second floor were covered in the big, metal, and most of all, ugly VPS sheets. The troubling fact for DPS was that they were millions of dollars in deficit and needed to come up with a cheaper way to try and properly secure the near-100 abandoned schools that they owned. This was their new and improved method. The VPS sheets worked for a little while, but then Detroit Public Schools switched security measures again by adding some technology into the mix.
In 2011, Stephens Elementary School also received the greatest and latest form of security measures from DPS, which consisted of motion-censored video cameras. The cameras, known as Videofied, were relatively small cameras that would hang on the walls inside the vacant school. When somebody would enter the school, the cameras would be turned on by sensing motion and they would begin recording. The video clips were then sent to Detroit Public Schools Police, who would respond to the proper scene. Videofied was responsible for arresting hundreds of scrappers, trespassers, vandals, and even urban explorers. The Videofied system was Detroit Public School’s response to the Vacant Property Security (VPS) dilemma. By 2010, it seemed that the metal VPS sheets were disappearing on some of the vacant schools because the scrappers had figured out how to remove them. By 2011, the newly vacant schools would now get Videofied instead of VPS. Some of the vacant schools that had already closed and had VPS would also now get the Videofied as well. Stephens Elementary School was lucky enough (at the time) to be chosen for both the VPS panels and the Videofied motion-sensor cameras. It was a sure way to have double measures and double security to prevent the biggest problem in Detroit: SCRAPPING. Stephens Elementary School has managed to hold on strong over the years.
Stephens Elementary School had a red-brick exterior with a concrete border-lines between the separate floors of the school. The façade of Stephens Elementary School also featured stone-bordering and quoins around the exterior of the stairwell windows, as well as stone-crest designs at the top of each entrance. Each of the stone-crest designs crowned and overlooked the entrances and stood out as one of the school’s most prominent exterior features. Above the main entrance to Stephens Elementary School, the stone-crest design read “ABLERT STEPHENS SCHOOL MCMXIII,” as the letters were carved into the stone. Stephens Elementary School had a slight “A-shaped” floor plan that consisted of administration offices, classrooms, a gymnasium, and an auditorium. Throughout the years, Stephens Elementary School served an average of 700 students from kindergarten through sixth grade. Albert Stephens Elementary School was named after Mr. Albert Stephens, who was the property owner of the land that Stephens Elementary School was built upon. Alumni and former students of Stephens Elementary School were known as the “Stephens Eagles,” as their school mascot was a eagle. Stephens Elementary School was a property of the Detroit Public Schools system.
Stephens Elementary School was “flagged” for closure by Detroit Public Schools due to low enrollment and expensive maintenance costs. Stephens Elementary School had always had a steady enrollment, but by the 2000’s the number dropped down to below 300 students. Stephens Elementary School also had trouble with maintaining the expensive and necessary repairs to the near 100 year-old school. With Stephens Elementary School using only approximately 50% of the school’s capacity, it became apparent that something needed to be done. With the drastic decrease in enrollment and combination of high operation costs, it was evident that Stephens Elementary School was in deep trouble. In 2010, Stephens Elementary School was forced to close its doors for good.
When Stephens Elementary School closed in 2010, the school was one of the original Detroit Public School (DPS) properties that was chosen by DPS to get the Vacant Property Security (VPS), in other words, large sheets of metal to cover the doors and windows, that are designed to help keep scrappers and trespassers out of vacant property. So all of the school’s doors and windows on the first floor and second floor were covered in the big, metal, and most of all, ugly VPS sheets. The troubling fact for DPS was that they were millions of dollars in deficit and needed to come up with a cheaper way to try and properly secure the near-100 abandoned schools that they owned. This was their new and improved method. The VPS sheets worked for a little while, but then Detroit Public Schools switched security measures again by adding some technology into the mix.
In 2011, Stephens Elementary School also received the greatest and latest form of security measures from DPS, which consisted of motion-censored video cameras. The cameras, known as Videofied, were relatively small cameras that would hang on the walls inside the vacant school. When somebody would enter the school, the cameras would be turned on by sensing motion and they would begin recording. The video clips were then sent to Detroit Public Schools Police, who would respond to the proper scene. Videofied was responsible for arresting hundreds of scrappers, trespassers, vandals, and even urban explorers. The Videofied system was Detroit Public School’s response to the Vacant Property Security (VPS) dilemma. By 2010, it seemed that the metal VPS sheets were disappearing on some of the vacant schools because the scrappers had figured out how to remove them. By 2011, the newly vacant schools would now get Videofied instead of VPS. Some of the vacant schools that had already closed and had VPS would also now get the Videofied as well. Stephens Elementary School was lucky enough (at the time) to be chosen for both the VPS panels and the Videofied motion-sensor cameras. It was a sure way to have double measures and double security to prevent the biggest problem in Detroit: SCRAPPING. Stephens Elementary School has managed to hold on strong over the years.
24 St. Agnes Church and School in Detroit stand as enduring landmarks steeped in rich history and architectural significance. The church was established in 1924 under the leadership of Father Edward J. Dowling, known for his vision to create a vibrant spiritual and educational hub within the community. Designed by architect William E. N. Hunter, the church reflects a blend of Gothic and Romanesque Revival styles, characterized by its imposing bell tower and intricate stained glass windows. The interior boasts a spacious nave with vaulted ceilings adorned with ornate carvings and detailed woodwork, creating a serene atmosphere conducive to worship and reflection.
Adjacent to the church, the St. Agnes School was constructed in 1928 to provide education rooted in Catholic principles. Its architecture mirrors that of the church, featuring similar design elements such as arched doorways, stone façades, and large windows that flood classrooms with natural light. Over the decades, the school expanded its facilities to accommodate a growing student body, becoming a pillar of educational excellence in Detroit. The cohesive architectural style of both the church and school not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also underscores their integral role in the cultural and religious fabric of the community, preserving their legacy as significant institutions in Detroit's history
Adjacent to the church, the St. Agnes School was constructed in 1928 to provide education rooted in Catholic principles. Its architecture mirrors that of the church, featuring similar design elements such as arched doorways, stone façades, and large windows that flood classrooms with natural light. Over the decades, the school expanded its facilities to accommodate a growing student body, becoming a pillar of educational excellence in Detroit. The cohesive architectural style of both the church and school not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also underscores their integral role in the cultural and religious fabric of the community, preserving their legacy as significant institutions in Detroit's history
25 St. Agnes Church and School in Detroit stand as enduring landmarks steeped in rich history and architectural significance. The church was established in 1924 under the leadership of Father Edward J. Dowling, known for his vision to create a vibrant spiritual and educational hub within the community. Designed by architect William E. N. Hunter, the church reflects a blend of Gothic and Romanesque Revival styles, characterized by its imposing bell tower and intricate stained glass windows. The interior boasts a spacious nave with vaulted ceilings adorned with ornate carvings and detailed woodwork, creating a serene atmosphere conducive to worship and reflection.
Adjacent to the church, the St. Agnes School was constructed in 1928 to provide education rooted in Catholic principles. Its architecture mirrors that of the church, featuring similar design elements such as arched doorways, stone façades, and large windows that flood classrooms with natural light. Over the decades, the school expanded its facilities to accommodate a growing student body, becoming a pillar of educational excellence in Detroit. The cohesive architectural style of both the church and school not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also underscores their integral role in the cultural and religious fabric of the community, preserving their legacy as significant institutions in Detroit's history
Adjacent to the church, the St. Agnes School was constructed in 1928 to provide education rooted in Catholic principles. Its architecture mirrors that of the church, featuring similar design elements such as arched doorways, stone façades, and large windows that flood classrooms with natural light. Over the decades, the school expanded its facilities to accommodate a growing student body, becoming a pillar of educational excellence in Detroit. The cohesive architectural style of both the church and school not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also underscores their integral role in the cultural and religious fabric of the community, preserving their legacy as significant institutions in Detroit's history
26 1967 E Jefferson Ave
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit, Michigan
27 The Joseph W. Guyton School, located in Detroit, is a significant historical educational institution with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Named after Joseph W. Guyton, the first American soldier killed on German soil during World War I, the school was established to honor his memory and service. The school was part of a broader wave of educational development in Detroit during the post-war period, reflecting the city's growth and the increasing emphasis on public education. Over the decades, the school has played a crucial role in the community, providing quality education and serving as a community hub.
Architecturally, the Joseph W. Guyton School is a prime example of early 20th-century school design. The building features a combination of classical and modern architectural elements, showcasing the era's transition in architectural styles. The use of brick and stone in the construction provides a sense of durability and permanence, while large windows allow for ample natural light, creating a conducive learning environment. Inside, the school was designed with spacious classrooms, wide corridors, and various facilities to support a comprehensive educational experience.
Architecturally, the Joseph W. Guyton School is a prime example of early 20th-century school design. The building features a combination of classical and modern architectural elements, showcasing the era's transition in architectural styles. The use of brick and stone in the construction provides a sense of durability and permanence, while large windows allow for ample natural light, creating a conducive learning environment. Inside, the school was designed with spacious classrooms, wide corridors, and various facilities to support a comprehensive educational experience.
28 The Joseph W. Guyton School, located in Detroit, is a significant historical educational institution with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Named after Joseph W. Guyton, the first American soldier killed on German soil during World War I, the school was established to honor his memory and service. The school was part of a broader wave of educational development in Detroit during the post-war period, reflecting the city's growth and the increasing emphasis on public education. Over the decades, the school has played a crucial role in the community, providing quality education and serving as a community hub.
Architecturally, the Joseph W. Guyton School is a prime example of early 20th-century school design. The building features a combination of classical and modern architectural elements, showcasing the era's transition in architectural styles. The use of brick and stone in the construction provides a sense of durability and permanence, while large windows allow for ample natural light, creating a conducive learning environment. Inside, the school was designed with spacious classrooms, wide corridors, and various facilities to support a comprehensive educational experience.
Architecturally, the Joseph W. Guyton School is a prime example of early 20th-century school design. The building features a combination of classical and modern architectural elements, showcasing the era's transition in architectural styles. The use of brick and stone in the construction provides a sense of durability and permanence, while large windows allow for ample natural light, creating a conducive learning environment. Inside, the school was designed with spacious classrooms, wide corridors, and various facilities to support a comprehensive educational experience.
29 The Joseph W. Guyton School, located in Detroit, is a significant historical educational institution with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Named after Joseph W. Guyton, the first American soldier killed on German soil during World War I, the school was established to honor his memory and service. The school was part of a broader wave of educational development in Detroit during the post-war period, reflecting the city's growth and the increasing emphasis on public education. Over the decades, the school has played a crucial role in the community, providing quality education and serving as a community hub.
Architecturally, the Joseph W. Guyton School is a prime example of early 20th-century school design. The building features a combination of classical and modern architectural elements, showcasing the era's transition in architectural styles. The use of brick and stone in the construction provides a sense of durability and permanence, while large windows allow for ample natural light, creating a conducive learning environment. Inside, the school was designed with spacious classrooms, wide corridors, and various facilities to support a comprehensive educational experience.
Architecturally, the Joseph W. Guyton School is a prime example of early 20th-century school design. The building features a combination of classical and modern architectural elements, showcasing the era's transition in architectural styles. The use of brick and stone in the construction provides a sense of durability and permanence, while large windows allow for ample natural light, creating a conducive learning environment. Inside, the school was designed with spacious classrooms, wide corridors, and various facilities to support a comprehensive educational experience.
30 The Joseph W. Guyton School, located in Detroit, is a significant historical educational institution with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Named after Joseph W. Guyton, the first American soldier killed on German soil during World War I, the school was established to honor his memory and service. The school was part of a broader wave of educational development in Detroit during the post-war period, reflecting the city's growth and the increasing emphasis on public education. Over the decades, the school has played a crucial role in the community, providing quality education and serving as a community hub.
Architecturally, the Joseph W. Guyton School is a prime example of early 20th-century school design. The building features a combination of classical and modern architectural elements, showcasing the era's transition in architectural styles. The use of brick and stone in the construction provides a sense of durability and permanence, while large windows allow for ample natural light, creating a conducive learning environment. Inside, the school was designed with spacious classrooms, wide corridors, and various facilities to support a comprehensive educational experience.
Architecturally, the Joseph W. Guyton School is a prime example of early 20th-century school design. The building features a combination of classical and modern architectural elements, showcasing the era's transition in architectural styles. The use of brick and stone in the construction provides a sense of durability and permanence, while large windows allow for ample natural light, creating a conducive learning environment. Inside, the school was designed with spacious classrooms, wide corridors, and various facilities to support a comprehensive educational experience.
Urban Decay