Piquette Avenue Industrial Historic District

The Piquette Avenue Industrial Historic District is significant for its association with the early development of the automobile industry in Detroit, which played a crucial role in shaping the city's economic and social history. The district includes buildings that were integral to the operations of major automobile manufacturers and related industries during the early 20th century. The Ford Piquette Plant, for example, is a key site within the district, known for being the birthplace of the Model T, which revolutionized the automobile industry and had a profound impact on American society.

The district's buildings reflect the architectural and engineering advancements of the time, showcasing styles and construction methods that were innovative for their era. The use of mill-style buildings, with their narrow configurations and hollow square plans, was typical of the pre-assembly line era and provided the necessary light and ventilation for manufacturing processes. These architectural features not only facilitated the production of automobiles but also contributed to the district's historical and aesthetic value.

The district also highlights the transition of Detroit from a residential to an industrial area, as evidenced by the presence of former residential buildings that have been repurposed for commercial use. This shift underscores the broader economic changes that occurred in Detroit as it became a hub for the automotive industry.

Overall, the Piquette Avenue Industrial Historic District is a testament to Detroit's pivotal role in the automotive industry and its impact on the city's development. The district's buildings and their historical associations provide valuable insights into the industrial and architectural history of the early 20th century.

The Piquette Avenue Industrial Historic District includes twenty buildings, predominantly industrial and commercial but also including a few residential, on approximately ten city blocks comprising approximately 48.1 acres. The irregularly shaped district is roughly bounded by Endicott Avenue and the Grand Trunk Western Railroad on the north, Hastings Street on the east, Harper Avenue on the south, and Woodward Avenue on the west. The southern edge of the district is approximately three miles north of the Detroit River. Included within the district is the previously National Register-listed Ford Piquette Plant located at 411 Piquette Avenue. Immediately north of the district are the railroad lines of the Grand Trunk Western Railroad, forming a portion of the 'Milwaukee Junction' where three rail lines meet. The western edge of the district is partially bounded by Woodward Avenue, Detroit's main north/south route leading to the city center and riverfront area. East of the historic district is the I-75 expressway, which both visually and physically separates the district from additional industrial buildings at Russell and Rivard streets.