INSIDER
Paradise Valley is steeped in Detroit’s history
Read full article: Paradise Valley is steeped in Detroit’s historyDuring a time of segregation in the US, there was one destination in Detroit where people from around the world, no matter their color or culture flocked to for a great time. That was “Paradise Valley,” where thousands of African Americans thrived and owned over 300 businesses. It was located in an area known as Black Bottom.
This Detroit-area freeway was the first of its kind in America
Read full article: This Detroit-area freeway was the first of its kind in AmericaMaybe you drive the Davison Freeway every day. The Davison Freeway, which runs east-west between M-10 and Interstate 75, was the first urban freeway constructed in America. In 1914, the area was incorporated into a 2.9 square mile city called Highland Park, which exists within the boundaries of the City of Detroit. Because of heavy traffic, the Highland Park Council approved a proposal to replace the road with a six-lane freeway and construction began in 1941. Avenue turns to Davison Freeway -- history is madeIn 1942, the freeway was opened without a dedication ceremony and thus the first urban, below grade freeway in the United States was born.
How rum-running became one of Detroit’s biggest industries during Prohibition era
Read full article: How rum-running became one of Detroit’s biggest industries during Prohibition eraDETROIT – During the Prohibition era, Detroit’s underground booze business exploded. Given Detroit's close proximity to an international port, Canada, it's no surprise how profitable illegal alcohol was for organized crime groups, like the Purple Gang, and speakeasy owners. Related: When the 'Purple Gang' ruled DetroitBy 1929, making and distributing illegal alcohol, or rum-running, was Detroit's No. One of the biggest methods was for large vessels docked in Windsor to have documentation for South America, but would then just drop illegal booze shipments in Detroit. Eventually, lawmakers argued the only way to end the violence and crime was to end Prohibition, which finally happened on Dec. 5, 1933.
Detroit’s Majestic Theatre Center listed for sale
Read full article: Detroit’s Majestic Theatre Center listed for saleDETROIT – As Michigan businesses slowly start to reopen, Detroit’s historic Majestic Theatre has been placed on the market. The Majestic Theatre and Magic Stick are both part of the National Independent Venue Association. In May, the organization estimated 90% of independent venues nationwide could close down permanently due to COVID-19. RELATED: Independent music venues look to Lansing for assistance amid pandemicIn 2018, the Majestic Theatre underwent a $1 million renovation to restore its façade and improve the stage and concert area. The Majestic Theatre was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
The story of Boblo Island
Read full article: The story of Boblo IslandBoblo (or Bob-Lo) sparks memories for many adults who spent summers riding the ferry to Boblo Island, visiting its amusement park or just enjoying a picnic. They transformed the island into an amusement park, including a coaster, Ferris wheel, fun house and more. (From 2018: Old Boblo Island boat catches fire at Detroit marina)BOBLO BOAT TOUR: Take a video tour of the historic boat that traveled the Detroit River for 81 years. http://bit.ly/2cIo6Ny (Video by Alex Atwell) Posted by WDIV Local 4 / ClickOnDetroit on Wednesday, September 28, 2016Vintage Boblo Boat (Video)VINTAGE BOBLO: Throwback video of the old Boblo boat and Boblo Island. Here are some we found on various blogs and forums:I was one of the last generations of people who were able to enjoy Bob-Lo island amusement park.