Detroit Historical Society
12642 items
- Description:
- Black and white postcard depicting a view along a tree-lined road on Belle Isle. On either sides of the road are bodies of water.
- Date Issued:
- 1904-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Advertisement for cigars offered by M. Walsh & Company. The advertisement is printed in the style of a $50 bill which states, "Deliver to the People of the United States - Or To Their Order - One Mille Cigars for One Hundred Dollars," #98763, dated October 15, 1865. Text and designs are printed in black, red, and green ink on slightly yellowed paper.
- Date Issued:
- 1865-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Postcard printed with a black and white photograph of Saints Peter and Paul Jesuit Church on East Jefferson Avenue. "Built by Alexander Chapoton," is handwritten at the top of the card. "One More for you collection. Lovingly, Alice," is handwritten in the message area at the bottom of the recto. The verso is addressed to Mrs. W. H. Hill of Evanston, Illinois, and it postmarked September 10, 1906.
- Date Issued:
- 1906-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Biographical
- Description:
- Program for an unknown event, likely a bar association dinner. "NWBA 1911," is printed on a triangular flap on the cover. Within dishes, many with whimsical names are listed, as is a series of lectures--"Pending Legislation in Congress," "The Street Railway Settlement," and "The Third Party in Congress"-- intersected with musical selections. The speakers--Frank D. Eaman, Frank E. Doremus, William Barlum Thompson, and Victor L. Berger--are all from legal backgrounds.
- Date Issued:
- 1911-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- General History
- Description:
- One drawing entitled "Design of Motor Launch No. 8 for the U. S. Lake Survey." The plan is drawn in black ink on linen at a scale of 1 inch = 1 foot and is dated December, 1912. This sheet shows the hull lines for a proposed 21.5 foot long, wooden-hulled motor launch. The title block in the lower right corner shows the plan was "Prepared under the direction of Lieut. Col. J. C. Sanford, Corps of Engineers, U.S.A."
- Date Issued:
- 1912-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Maritime
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting two polar bears in a fenced enclosure on Belle Isle, with two people watching. Printed on verso: The Bear Caves on Belle Isle are one of the most interesting attractions on this beautiful island park. The grizzly, polar and black bears have their appropriate pits. The enclosures are constantly thronged with visitors watching the playful antics of the bears in the water. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Apr 16, 1914.
- Date Issued:
- 1914-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Catalog from the Detroit Stove Works bound in a dark blue cover. Faded text on the cover reads "Catalogue of Stoves; Hollow Ware, &c; Manufactured by the Detroit Stove Works, Detroit, Mich.; ----- ----- -----; 15 and 17 Woodbridge St., West; Corner of Griswold; Foundry Mt. Elliott Avenue, Hamtramck, near U.S. Marine Hospital." Printing of the catalog is attributed to the Tribune Book and Job Printing Company. Contained within it are prices, images, measurements and advertising information for Detroit Stove Works stoves and ranges, as well as accessories for them, from 1868.
- Date Issued:
- 1868-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting a street view of the House of Providence hospital from the corner of 14th Street and W Grand Boulevard. Printed on verso: House of Providence situated on the corner of Grand Boulevard and Fourteenth Street, is one of the finest Catholic Institutions in the country, being one of the handsomest buildings in Detroit, and possessing the newest and most up-to-date hospital equipment. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Apr 12, 1912.
- Date Issued:
- 1912-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the streetcar waiting room at the entrance to Palmer Park with people in front, a stone fountain to the left, and rail tracks in the foreground. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Jun 2, 1909.
- Date Issued:
- 1909-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Half fold souvenir booklet from the Michigan Booth at the National Woman Suffrage Bazaar, held in Madison Square Garden, New York City. Contains a printed quotation concerning women's suffrage from Senator Thomas W. Palmer, as well as his autograph. Was sold to raise money at the bazaar.
- Date Issued:
- 1900-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- General History
- Description:
- One plan sheet entitled "Fortifications Michigan. Fort Wayne, Detroit River." This drawing is a blackline reproduction of the original and it shows an overall plan of the fort layout along with existing and proposed ground contour lines. Small handwritten text beneath the title shows "Drawn by Lt. M. C. Meigs, Corps of Engineers, March, 1849." Two cross-section details are shown near the lower edge of the sheet. Small handwritten text near the lower left corner shows "Engr. Department 16 July 1849, Received with Lieut. Meigs letter of 10th instant." Small handwritten text in the lower right corner shows "Fort Wayne 10th Mar. of 1849, Copies/letter submitted to the Chief Engineer. M. C. Meigs, Lt. Engs."
- Date Issued:
- 1849-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Fort Wayne
- Description:
- D. M. Ferry and Company account statement for Smith Bd[?] of Sedgwick, Maine, dated June 1, 1904. In the ledger section $2.93 is listed next to January 12. A "paid" stamp dated June 8, 1904 and signed C.H.R. has been applied.
- Date Issued:
- 1904-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- One page torn from a brochure concerning the Young Women's Christian Association. The brochure is printed in black text on white paper. One side of the page is entitled, "Our Purpose," and gives the mission statement for the organization. The other side of the page is entitled, "Treasurer's Report," and shows a summary financial statement from February 1, 1899 to February 1, 1900.
- Date Issued:
- 1900-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Detroit Anniversaries
- Description:
- 19th edition of a Spanish language catalog of Parke, Davis & Co.-New York products.
- Date Issued:
- 1923-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Medical/Dental/Pharmaceutical
- Description:
- This 1-page letter was handwritten in black ink on slightly yellowed paper by Edward F. Marschner who was the president of the Detroit Board of Education. The paper is printed with light red lines and shows the letterhead of the Board of Education of the City of Detroit as well as the names of officers. It also has the watermark, "English Bond." The text of the letter has been transcribed as follows: "Detroit, Mich. December 31st 1900 I was born in the City of Detroit, at the northeast corner of Lafayette and Dequindre Streets April 16th 1857. Was married at Milwaukee, Wis. in 1880 to Miss Emelia Mayer who was born in New York City February 2nd 1862. We have three children: Edward P. Marschner - 19 years. Lillie F. Marschner - 18 years. Armin O. Marschner - 14 years I entered an apprenticeship to learn the trade of Lithographic Engraving with the Calvert Lithograph Company February 29th 1872 - have been employed with that firm since that date and am now a foreman of the Engraving Department. Ed. F. Marschner."
- Date Issued:
- 1900-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Detroit Anniversaries
- Description:
- Document signed by Lewis Cass, Governor, and John T. Mason, Secretary, appointing John Roberts Lieutenant Colonel of the Militia of the Michigan Territory. The document is embossed and stamped with a white seal of the Michigan Territory. The text of the document is as follows: "Lewis Cass, Governor in and over the Territory of Michigan, To all to whome these presents may come...Greeting: Know ye, That reposing special trust and confidence in the patriotism, valor, fidelity and abilities of John Roberts Esquire I do hereby appoint him Lieutenant Colonel in the Militia of the said Territory. He is therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the duties of Lieutenant Colonel by doing and performing all manner of things thereunto belonging. And I do strictly charge and require all Officers and Soldiers under his command to be obedient to his orders as Lieutenant Colonel. And he is to observe and follow such orders and directions from time to time as he shall receive from the President of the United States of America, the Governor of the said Territory, or his superior Officer set over him according to law. This commission to continue in force during the pleasure of the Governor of the said Territory for the time being. In testimony whereof, I have caused these Letters to be made Patent, and the great Seal of the said Territory to be hereunto affixed. Given under my hand at Detroit, this twenty eighth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty and of the Independence of the United States of America the Fifty fifth. Lewis Cass John T. Mason, Secretary of the Territory." The verso contains hand written declarations from John Roberts and Colonel Cook of the 1st Regiment of the Michigan Militia, reading: "Teritory [sic] of Michigan County of Wayne I, John Roberts do Solemnly swear that I will Support the Constitution of the United States of America. So help me God. John Roberts I, John Roberts do Solemnly Swear That I will carefully and diligently discharge the duties of a Lieutenant Colonel in the Michigan Militia, so help me God. John Roberts Be it Remembered that on this 24th day of November, One Thousand eight Hundred and thirty personally came before me the undersigned Louis [?] Cook, Col. 1st Regt., John Roberts, who took and Subscribed the foregoing oath in my presence. Given under my hand the City of Detroit the day and year above written. Louis [?] Cook Col. 1st Regt., M.M."
- Date Issued:
- 1830-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Government
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting a view along Woodward Avenue at Grand Circus Park, facing north with the Central United Methodist Church in the background.
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Black and white photo of the cover page of the Rotogravure section of the Detroit Sunday News for Sunday, September 26, 1920. Pictured is a collage of photos including trophies and race boats. The verso is marked, "Miss AMERICA I, 1920 Gold Cup winner, featured in newspaper spread."
- Date Issued:
- 1920-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Maritime
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting Capitol Park, with a fountain, pedestrians, and a view down Griswold Street. Signs read, "John Winter & Co. General Insurance", and "Dean, Godfrey & Co, Interior Decorators". On the left is the Chamber of Commerce Building. Handwritten message on recto, postmarked May 13, 1914.
- Date Issued:
- 1914-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Letterhead for the Booking Office of C. J. Whitney's Circuit. This letterhead is printed in dark blue ink on pale yellow linen paper. The letterhead shows a picture of the new Detroit Opera House and lists the names and locations of other theatres and opera house that were part of C. J. Whitney's booking circuit. This letterhead was included in an envelope along with a 12-page letter that was written by Bertram C. Whitney who was the son of C. J. Whitney and who was also the manager of the Detroit Opera House.
- Date Issued:
- 1900-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Detroit Anniversaries
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the Washington Theatre on the corner of Clifford Street and Washington Boulevard, with pedestrians and cars in front. Postmarked Feb 4, 1913.
- Date Issued:
- 1913-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Certificate appointing Charles C. Trowbridge to the position of Regent of the University of Michigan, dates July 12th, 1839. The document is signed by Stevens T. Mason, Governor, and Randolph Manning, Secretary of State, of the State of Michigan. The text of the certificate is as follows: "Stevens T. Mason, Governor in and Over the State of Michigan: To al who shall see these presents---Greeting: Know Ye, That, reposing special trust and confidence in the integrity and ability of Charles C. Trowbridge I do hereby, in the name, and by the authority, of the People of the State of Michigan, Appoint him Regent of the University of Michigan And I do hereby authorize and empower him to execute and fulfill the duties of that office according to law: To have and to hold, the said office, with all the Rights, Privileges, and Emoluments thereunto belonging, until the end of the next Session of the Legislature, unless the Governor of the State for the time being, should sooner revoke and determine this Commission. In Testimony Whereof, I have caused these Letters to be made Patent, and the Great Seal of the State to be hereunto affixed. Given under my hand at Detroit, this twelfth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-nine and of the Independence of the United States of America, the sixty fourth. By the Governor, S.T. Mason. Randolph Manning Secretary of State."
- Date Issued:
- 1839-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Biographical
- Description:
- Trifold handbill advertising various products from D. Ransom, Son, and Company of Buffalo, New York, including Miller's Balm, Trask's Ointment, Ransom's Hive Syrup, Dermador, and Miller's Universal Balm. "Dec. 1920," is printed at the tops of two pages on the recto.
- Date Issued:
- 1920-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Medical/Dental/Pharmaceutical
- Description:
- Black and white photographic postcard depicting a view along Woodward Avenue at Campus Martius, with a biplane superimposed onto the image. In view are the Majestic Building, Detroit Opera House and pedestrians. Signs read, "H.C. Weber & Co", "Gray & Worcester", "Wright, Kay & Co", and "Weil & Co". Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Jun 23, 1910.
- Date Issued:
- 1910-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Certificate admitting Walter David Kring into the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine for North America on June 4th, 1920. The certificate reads as follows: "The Imperial Council of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine For North America To All True and Faithful Nobles of the Mystic Shrine: Know Ye that the Worthy Noble Walter David Kring who hath signed his Name in the margin hereof, was regularly Received, Admitted and Constituted A Noble of the Mystic Shrine in Moslem Temple of Detroit, Mich on the 4th day of June 1920, and that he is duly Enrolled as such upon the Records of the Order. In Testimony Whereof We have hereunto subscribed our Names, and affixed the Seal of The Imperial Council for North America." The names and signatures of Walter David Kring, the Imperial Recorder, Imperial Potentate, and Recorder are inscribed and a gold seal of the Moslem Temple is affixed at bottom.
- Date Issued:
- 1920-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Biographical
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the CITY OF TOLEDO with its deck filled with people and smoke billowing. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Jul 19, 1912.
- Date Issued:
- 1912-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Decorative print of the lyrics to a song composed in honor of Edward A. Meiser, part owner of the Detroit Free Press, and sung by the staff of the Detroit Free Press at the First Annual Banquet of the Business at the Russell House on January 15, 1901. The lyrics are supplemented with illustrations of a bowling ball and pins, and are printed on cardstock. The lyrics are: When Meiser goes to bowl He's in it heart and soul It's really very shocking If he makes a strike at all Of course you can't expect A green horn to be perfect A game in which he uses only one, one, ball.
- Date Issued:
- 1901-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Biographical
- Description:
- One certificate. The certificate is handwritten in black ink on heavy paper and was issued as a resolution by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the City of Detroit to commemorate the untimely death of "Robert W. Nash, Steersman of Hook and Ladder Company No. 1, who had been a valued member of this Department since March 8th 1880, died on Sunday Sept. 17th 1882." The certificate is dated "Sept. 18th 1882" and is signed at the bottom by "James E. Tryon, Secretary. R. W. Gillett, Jerome Croul, B. Vernor, Commissioners."
- Date Issued:
- 1882-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Fire Department
- Description:
- Trade card from the Michigan Stove Company advertising Garland Stoves and Ranges. A lithograph on the recto, attributed to "Chas. Shields Sons 20 & 22 Gold St N.Y," depicts a dog swinging a basket, containing a baby, that is suspended from a tree. An early Garland Stoves and Ranges logo is printed on the verso.
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting an elevated view along Central Avenue on Belle Isle. The street is crowded with pedestrians and in the foreground is a round flowerbed. Handwritten message on recto, postmarked Aug 3, 1905.
- Date Issued:
- 1903-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting Water Works Park, with the tower, pumping station, and drinking fountain in view and water in the foreground. Printed on verso: Lake at Gladwin Park, Detroit, Mich. Gladwin Park is located out Jefferson Avenue and consists of 75 acres of fine floral display and Lakes. It is a source of Detroit's water supply. The pumping station is located here and pumps 73 million gallons of water daily. It is reached by Jefferson Avenue cars going east. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Jul 25, 1911.
- Date Issued:
- 1911-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Booklet published by Christ Church Detroit containing hymns and prayers. Dated Oct 6, 1918.
- Date Issued:
- 1918-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Religion
- Description:
- One plan sheet entitled, "Hatch Covers & Details, Strs. Venus & Neptune." The drawing consists of black ink on linen and shows various structural details of the hatch covers and coaming for the steamships, Venus and Neptune. The title block in the lower right corner shows that the drawing was prepared by "Manitowoc Ship Building & Dry Dock Co." at scales of 1/2, 1 1/2, and 3 inches = 1 foot and is dated November 25, 1914. The drawing number is shown as "4213."
- Date Issued:
- 1914-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Maritime
- Description:
- Letter to James B. Witherell at Fort Clark, Texas on a blue colored piece of paper with four separate pages folded into one single sheet of paper. The letter begins in the far right panel on the recto side, starting with Indianola January 8 and below Dear Witherell. The handwriting on the left panel of the recto side is the final page of the letter. The verso side is pages two and three of the letter. It reads: Indianola Thursday January 8. Dear Witherell. Just as I was on the point of leaving San Antonio for this place, I was much gratified to hear of your late affair with the Indians, and if I had time, it would have given me much pleasure to have sent for my congratulations for your success, before coming here. I gave the editor of the San Antonio paper the facts, so he could publish it in his next issue, and I suppose in time you will see yourself in the papers. The Editor of the Austin times was in San Antonio at the time the news reached us, and Col. Johnston gave him the details + he wrote a letter to his paper which I suppose has been published on this. The people should know of our successes, for every petty depredation is spread with additions all over the country, and we in justice to ourselves as well as for the sake of the [???] should have all of our successes made known. Johnston, with 25 men of his Co. (Fl) has lately had a big fight on the Concho. He killed three, mortally wounded three, took 34 horses, one captive Mexican, and a lot of plunder. Had two of his men killed and five wounded. Bradfute, [?], and his fight in one months speaks well for the 2nd Cav. Tell Owens that Porter was with Johnson. We leave here to return to San Antonio on Sunday next. My kind regards to Capt. Oakes, and hoping you may ever meet with success. I remain, yours truly, [?]
- Date Issued:
- 1857-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Biographical
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting several passenger steamers next to a dock. "Phostint" Card. Made only by Detroit Publishing Co.
- Date Issued:
- 1908-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Detroit Boat Club membership card issued to Addison Moffat, dated June 2, 1879 and signed by the club's secretary John B. Corliss. The features a lithograph of a rower beneath the interlaced initials of the organization on the recto, and a lithograph of the club house on the riverfront between Joseph Campau Street and McDougall Avenue on the verso.
- Date Issued:
- 1879-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- General History
- Description:
- Booklet. Seven pages plus back cover of partial booklet, presumably entitled "Souvenir of Detroit & Exposition." Detroit's history, from its founding through the late 1800s is detailed within. "Copyrighted, 1887, by Ward Bros., Dealers in View Albums, Advertising Novelties, &e., Columbus, Ohio." printed on first present page. Back cover is black with a gold scrollwork motif
- Date Issued:
- 1887-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Detroit Views
- Description:
- Bill of sale, dated October 28th, 1904, from the Peninsular Stove Company, documenting the sale of coal to Mr. L.J. Rahler of Walnut Creek, Ohio. At the top of the bill is an image of the Peninsular Stove Company's logo and a stylized depiction of the company's name.
- Date Issued:
- 1904-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Sheet music for the song "On the Road to Home Sweet Home", lyric Gus Kahn, music by Egbert Van Alstyne, published by Jerome H. Remick & Co.
- Date Issued:
- 1917-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Music
- Description:
- Small staple-bound booklet, bound in a brown paper cover with an image of an early horse-drawn fire engine, containing the constitution and by-laws of the Association of Ex-Members Detroit Steam Fire Department, printed by C.L. Williams.
- Date Issued:
- 1896-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Fire Department
- Description:
- Jewett and Sherman Company bill of lading for eighty barrels of mustard, one-hundred four boxes of honey, and two casks of olives shipped to the E.J. Dossin Company on July 13, 1923 via the Universal Steamship Company. The document is stamped as received by Universal on July 13, 1923. Contract terms are printed on the verso.
- Date Issued:
- 1923-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Menu for Easter dinner at the Russell House, consisting of a sheet of pink cardstock bound with white cord into a half-folded pink cardstock cover. An illustration of purple and white flowers, as well as a white embossed image of the hotel crest are on the cover.
- Date Issued:
- 1900-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- World War II poster with the message, "Let's Hit Every Dimension Right on the Button!" The poster shows a color drawing of a right hand fist punching Adolph Hitler on the chin. Additional text along the bottom of the poster shows "It Takes Careful, Accurate, Work To Keep 'Em Firing!" Small printed text in the lower left corner shows "Copyright, 1943 - Oldsmobile Division, General Motors Corporation, Lansing, Michigan." Small printed text in the lower right corner shows "Litho in U.S.A. -50-."
- Date Issued:
- 1943-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Military
- Description:
- One blueprint drawing entitled "Plans for Engineer Dock at Fort Wayne." The drawing shows the layout of the dock area along with dimensions and water depths. The locations of four survey vessels are also indicated along with their names: Lorain L., U.S.S. Gen. Williams, U.S.S. Search, and U.S. Lake Survey No. 1. On the right side of the plan sheet, a cross-section detail of the dock sheet piling and anchorage configuration is shown. The title block in the upper left corner indicates that the drawing was prepared "under the direction of Major W. L. Fisk, Corps of Engineers, and E. E. Haskell, Chief Asst. Engineer" at a scale of 1 inch = 20 feet. The plan is dated August, 1902.
- Date Issued:
- 1902-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Fort Wayne
- Description:
- Bill of sale, dated September 28th, 1908, from the Michigan Stove Company, documenting the sale of an Art Garland model stove to A.R. Chandler of Sylvania, Ohio. At the top of the bill are images depicting the Michigan Stove Company's stove works in Detroit, Western Headquarters in Chicago, Garland Stoves and Ranges logo, and prize medals from the 1900 Paris Universal Exposition and 1901 Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo.
- Date Issued:
- 1908-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Check, printed by the Calvert Lithographing Company, from the office of Hammond, Standish, and Company for $70.28 to Barnes Brothers and Company, dated August 31, 1878. "Wholesale Provision Dealers, Pork and Beef Packers," is printed along the left edge of the check. An image of the Hammond, Standish, and Company building is printed in the center.
- Date Issued:
- 1875-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Black and white postcard depicting Washington Boulevard, facing north from Michigan Avenue. In view are pedestrians, a fountain, large trees and he Detroit Edison Building. A sign in the background reads "Utopia Dental". Handwritten message on recto, postmarked Nov 2, 1906.
- Date Issued:
- 1906-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Half folded newsprint program for a production of "The Mikado" at White's Grand Theatre, beginning Monday September 14, 1885; illustrations of both Charles O. White and the theater's exterior appear in the program's nameplate; the program is predominately advertisements, with a column of information on the play within.
- Date Issued:
- 1885-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Theatre/Theater
- Description:
- One blank sheet of company letterhead for Jeremiah Dwyer, President of the Michigan Stove Company. The paper is printed in black text on a light gray bond paper and has the red emblem of "Garland Stoves and Ranges" in the upper right corner. This sheet of letterhead was intended for the correspondence of the company president and it has a different design as compared to the standard company letterhead.
- Date Issued:
- 1900-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Detroit Anniversaries
- Description:
- Page containing "A Non-Political New Year's Address, to the Citizens of Detroit, by the Carrier of the Daily Free Press" on January 1, 1839.
- Date Issued:
- 1839-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- General History
- Description:
- Black and white postcard accented in silver glitter depicting the streetcar waiting room at the entrance to Palmer Park with people in front, a stone fountain to the left, and rail tracks in the foreground. Printed on recto: Copyright 1904 by the Rotograph Co. Handwritten message on recto, postmarked Aug 23, 1906.
- Date Issued:
- 1906-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Handwritten order from Vassar Woolen Company of Vassar, Michigan, to Theodore H. Eaton & Son of Detroit, dated August 17, 1883. The paper is slightly yellowed and is printed with the Vassar Woolen Company letterhead.
- Date Issued:
- 1883-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Bill from Elmwood Cemetery for Theodore H. Eaton. Dated May 24, 1876.
- Date Issued:
- 1876-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Religion
- Description:
- Half folded flyer for a performance by Geraldine Farrar at Arcadia Hall on October 11, 1915; assisting artists: Ada Sassoli, Reinald Werrenrath, Richard Epstein; interior of program contains a brief bio of Farrar praising her talents as an opera singer; photo of Farrar on front cover; advertisement for Steinway Pianos on back
- Date Issued:
- 1915-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Theatre/Theater
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting Campus Martius Park facing northeast. In view are the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, Wayne County Building, Cadillac Square, Monroe Block and many pedestrians. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Oct 11, 1907.
- Date Issued:
- 1907-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- This announcement is from M. P. Hurlbut, Secretary and Treasurer of the "The Detroit Fishing and Hunting Association, Rushmere Club," to notify members of the club Annual Meeting on January 8, 1901, at the Russell House. The announcement is printed in black text on white paper.
- Date Issued:
- 1900-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Detroit Anniversaries
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument at Campus Martius, facing west. In the background are City Hall, the Hammond BUilding and Ford Building. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked 1910.
- Date Issued:
- 1910-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Program from the Columbus Day exercises at Everett School on October 21, 1892. Front cover decorated with a fabric American flag. School was located on E Fort Street. Wilton-Smith Co., Printers
- Date Issued:
- 1892-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Education
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the Liberty Bell suspended in Palmer Park with several people on a path in the background. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Aug 9, 1909.
- Date Issued:
- 1909-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting Nurses Home at Grace Hospital from John R Street. Handwritten message on verso.
- Date Issued:
- 1911-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Program for performance of "The Great John Ganton" starring George Fawcett at the Garrick Theatre beginning January 17; program features production information, cast of characters, scene synopses, and musical program as well as advertisements; front cover is in color and features an illustration of a woman in a white dressing sitting cross-legged on a cushioned seat playing a lyre above an advertisement for the Hotel Pontchartrain
- Date Issued:
- 1910-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Theatre/Theater
- Description:
- Black and white postcard depicting a man in a diving suit standing on a ladder with two other men behind him. The BRITANNIA with its decks packed with passengers is in the background. Printed on verso: Bob-lo, Bois Blanc Island, Detroit River, one of Detroit's favorite pleasure grounds is situated in Canadian waters at the junction of Detroit River and Lake Erie. The Island is owned by the Detroit, Belle Isle, & Windsor Ferry Co., comprises 225 acres and is equipped with a Casino, Dancing Pavilion, Athletic Field, Bathing Beach and similar conveniences. The fine steamer Columbia covers the run several times daily. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Aug 10, 1909.
- Date Issued:
- 1909-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Program booklet for the 42nd Annual Convention of the Michigan State Firemen's Association, held in Detroit from July 18th to the 20th, 1916. The program contains the schedule of events, information on the Detroit Fire Department both past and present, and information about the city for visiting firefighters. The cover is missing, and a half-tone portrait photograph of Mayor Oscar B. Marx is on the front page.
- Date Issued:
- 1916-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Fire Department
- Description:
- Certificate declaring that Ruldolph Joseph Lieb is authorized to practice dentistry in Michigan by the State Board of Examiners in Dentistry. The document was granted in Port Huron on December 6, 1901, and is signed by Egbert T. Loeffler, D.D.S., president; Frank O. Gilbert, D.D.S., treasurer; and Marshall B. Dennis, D.D.S, secretary. The golden seal of the State Board of Examiners in Dentistry has been affixed at the lower left. The certificate bears the mark of the Calvert Lithograph Company of Detroit.
- Date Issued:
- 1901-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Medical/Dental/Pharmaceutical
- Description:
- Wayne County and Home Savings Bank check #98 payable to the "Newton Annis Company" in the amount of $195.00. It is signed by Bertha E. Martin and dated August 19, 1922. The check is printed in black ink on a light red background that has a safety paper design. The check verso has been stamped as paid.
- Date Issued:
- 1922-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Small unused stock ledger booklet printed for the sixtieth anniversary of L.B. King and Company, according to the first page. The booklet is bound in a blue leatherette cover with "L.B. King & Co., Detroit, 1849-1909" embossed in a gold ring on the back. The recto of each page is printed with a table with the columns, "Date," "Article," "Store," and "Price," as well as a "Memoranda" space below and on the recto of each leaf.
- Date Issued:
- 1909-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting an elevated view of the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Griswold Street, facing northwest. Buildings adjacent to the avenue feature businesses including, Men Drs K & K Cure, Gormans Hats, Stott's Columbus Flour, Golden Clothiers, and Home Savings Bank. Printed on verso: Michigan Avenue, Detroit. Mich. Michigan Avenue, one of Detroit's main business streets leads to the new Railroad Terminal Station, one of the finest in the west. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Feb 28, 1915.
- Date Issued:
- 1915-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Program for performance of "Old Jed Prouty of Bucksport, Maine" at Lyceum Theatre commencing Dec. 16, 1892; front cover is black and red ink on white background; "Lyceum Theatre Program" in center; "Shaw & DeLano, lessees and Mgrs" "E.C. Sullivan, publisher;" features ad for F.G. Smith, Sons and Company jewelers on left side of cover and numerous other advertisements within
- Date Issued:
- 1892-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Theatre/Theater
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting City Hall and the Hammond Building front Campus Martius, with a moonlight tower in front. Published by Wolverine News Co., Detroit, Mich.
- Date Issued:
- 1910-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Postcard. Photographic print in sepia on cardstock of the Romanesque style First Presbyterian Church designed by George Mason located on Woodward Avenue during winter. Printed on the verso, "A.C. Dietsche, Detroit, Mich. and Leipzig. Made in Germany."
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- One drawing entitled "Elevations and Sections of Details of Wrought Iron Picket Fence, Gates, and Gate Posts at Fort Wayne, Mich." The drawing consists of black ink on linen and shows various details of the double gate and posts at the main entrance to the fort. The details are shown at scales of 3/4 inch = 1 foot and 1 1/2 inches = 1 foot as noted on the plan sheet. Handwritten text beneath the title shows "George Ruhlen, Capt. and A.Q.M. [Assistant Quarter Master], U.S. Army," and is dated March 25, 1895.
- Date Issued:
- 1895-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Fort Wayne
- Description:
- One sheet, mounted on paper, from the Michigan Volksblatt from 1903, featuring a halftone print of "Das neue County - Gebaude" (The New County Building). The image depicts the Wayne County Building, located at the northeast corner of Randolph and Congress Streets, with a view to the northeast. Two people can be seen walking along the steps in front of the entranceway.
- Date Issued:
- 1903-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Detroit Views
- Description:
- Half-folded program for General Russell Alger's memorial held at the Hall of Representatives in Lansing on April 10, 1907.
- Date Issued:
- 1907-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Biographical
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the Skating Pavilion on Belle Isle, with Lake Takoma in the foreground. Handwritten message on recto, postmarked Jun 15, 1906.
- Date Issued:
- 1906-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Northern High School yearbook for the class of January 1923, containing photos of the students, and information on school clubs, events, and activities. The autograph page has been filled up, and a ribbon with the school colors has been affixed to a page. The book is bound in an olive green paper cover with a black and gold illustration of a sailing ship.
- Date Issued:
- 1923-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Education
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the Hotel Pontchartrain from Campus Martius, with streetcars, automobiles, pedestrians, and the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument in the foreground. A sign reads "Canadian Pacific". Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Sep 5, 1913.
- Date Issued:
- 1913-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Black and white postcard depicting people canoeing on a Belle Isle lake, with people along the shore to the left and a steamship in the background. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Aug 6, 1919.
- Date Issued:
- 1919-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- One booklet entitled, "32 Years Ago," which was published by the Union Trust Company to commemorate their 32nd year of business. The company was founded in 1891 and the booklet was published in 1923. The booklet consists of a single panoramic strip of halftone photographic images that show downtown Detroit storefronts along the east side of Woodward Avenue as of 1891. The entire view extends from Grand Circus Park to the Detroit River and sections are identified by as follows: Grand Circus Park Witherell Street to John R Street John R Street to Grand River Avenue Grand River Avenue to Gratiot Avenue Gratiot Avenue to Campus Martius Campus Martius Campus Martius to Congress Street Congress Street to Larned Street Larned Street to Jefferson Avenue Woodward Avenue and Jefferson Avenue Jefferson Avenue to Woodbridge Street Woodbridge Street to Atwater Street Atwater Street to Detroit River.
- Date Issued:
- 1923-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- 4-page letter written by Morse Stewart, M.D. It was typewritten in black text onto slightly yellowed, thin linen paper and is entitled, "Medical Reminiscences of the Nineteenth Century. The last page is signed in black ink, "Morse Stewart, M.D." The body of the letter gives a brief overview of medical practice and education in Detroit in the 19th century. Each page has several handwritten corrections.
- Date Issued:
- 1900-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Detroit Anniversaries
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the Hudson's Building and Pardridge & Blackwell Building from the intersection of Farmer and Monroe Streets. Business signs read "Johnson's Chop House", "P. & B.", and "Lume's Stag Hotel", with a streetcar, pedestrians, and horse-drawn vehicles visible. Printed on verso: Pardridge & Blackwell's and J.L. Hudson's Big Department Stores occupy opposite corners of Gratiot Avenue and Farmer Street. Both are department stores of the mot advanced type and occupy their own buildings, especially constructed for their own use, each taking up virtually half a complete city square. The corner which they occupy has often been termed the heart of Detroit's retail district. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Jan 14, 1909.
- Date Issued:
- 1909-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Pass to the speaker's stand for the unveiling of the Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, on April 9th, 1872. The ticket is printed in black, red, and green, on white cardstock, with the message, "Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, Unveiling Ceremony, Detroit, Tuesday, April 9, 1872. Admit the bearer to the speakers stand. "Unveiling ceremony," is printed within a scroll motif, and the corners are decorated with scrollwork flourishes. The verso bears the signature of Russell A. Alger.
- Date Issued:
- 1872-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Architecture
- Description:
- Sheet music for the song "Dodge Brothers March", music by Victor Herbert, lyric by Maxwell I. Pitkin, published by Jerome H. Remick & Co. Printed on cover: "Dedicated by Mr. Herbert to Mr. Horace E. Dodge in respectful appreciation of his efforts toward the advancement of American Music"
- Date Issued:
- 1920-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Music
- Description:
- One receipt, dated April 27, 1870, issued by the "Detroit, River, St. Clair, Lake Huron & Mackinac Express Co." It was printed in red text on white paper with blank lines completed in black handwritten text. The receipt indicated that the express company had received one package of stationery from the Richmond & Backus Company. The package was marked "Stephens & Kelly, Alpena," with a value of $7.25. The receipt was signed by "J. D. Barr" who was the express company agent.
- Date Issued:
- 1870-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Sheet music for the song "Dimples", words by Edward Madden, music by Percy Wenrich, published by Jerome H. Remick & Co. Miss Irene Franklin is featured on the cover.
- Date Issued:
- 1913-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Music
- Description:
- Breakfast menu card from the Russell House, dated Thursday, December 19, 1901 with a tear-off postcard attached at the top. The card is printed on beige paper, with an image of the hotel's crest beside a small half-tone head-and-shoulders portrait photo of D.W.H. Moreland flanked by a color illustration of a man and woman standing beside opposite ends of a horse-drawn carriage, providing the face of the postcard. The menu is printed in green below. Mailing instructions, and space for addresses and stamps are provided on the verso.
- Date Issued:
- 1902-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- Catalog of Parke, Davis & Co. pharmaceutic and biologic products. Includes therapeutics, doses and approximate prices. Dated January 1, 1904.
- Date Issued:
- 1904-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Medical/Dental/Pharmaceutical
- Description:
- Contract between Finzel's Orchestra and the Ashley and Dustin Steamer Line for the services of eight musicians aboard the excursion steamer PUT-IN-BAY during the 1915 season, dated April 1st. The contract is in black printed ink on yellowed paper and has been filled in by typewriter. It stipulates a payment of $178 plus an extra 50¢ each time the boat stops at Cedar Point and returns later than usual. The contract is signed by Edward A. Dustin. "Please sign and return this duplicate," is printed in the bottom left corner and a dotted black line at top suggests it was a piece of a larger perforated sheet of paper.
- Date Issued:
- 1915-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Music
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the lumber yard at the Murphy Chair Company, with a shed, barrel, and tracks visible. Printed on verso: Yard View. This card gives you a view of one of our lumber tracks, and is presented to show you the manner in which we store out boards to insure perfect seasoning. The shed shown extended to the right at the upper end and to the left at the office end, in shape like [zigzag line] and is 1946 ft. long with a storage capacity for 3,330,900 feet of lumber. The frame building is the yard Master's office. We shall take you through our entire plant with a series of these cards and trust they may be of interest to you. Murphy Chair Company, Detroit. Postmarked Jul 22, 1911.
- Date Issued:
- 1911-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Black and white photographic postcard depicting a two story house at 3737 Clairmont Street. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Nov 17, 1922.
- Date Issued:
- 1922-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting a black and white image of the Temple Theatre and Else Temple on the corner of Monroe Street and Campus Martius. Below reads "I Like the Town of Detroit, Think I'll But it For You" with a green and red pennant. Typed message on verso, postmarked, Jun 17, 1914.
- Date Issued:
- 1914-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- One map entitled "Detroit's Western Suburbs, 1892." The map is printed in black ink on white paper and shows an area of land located west of Livernois Avenue which includes portions of Springwells Township and Ecorse Township adjacent to the Rouge River. The map includes streets, street names, property lines, lot numbers, railroads, rivers and streams, and some company names. The map details were "compiled from actual surveys & records by Mason L. Brown, Civil Engineer & Surveyor, 22 & 23 Hodges Street, Detroit, Mich."
- Date Issued:
- 1892-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- General History
- Description:
- Catalogue of the officers and students of the Detroit Female Seminary.
- Date Issued:
- 1874-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Education
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting St. Mary's of Mt. Carmel Polish School in Wyandotte with two men standing in front. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked May 2, 1912.
- Date Issued:
- 1912-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Detroit and Cleveland Navigation Company timetable in the form of a six page booklet with a salmon-colored cover. Cover bears an engraving of the bow of the CITY OF MACKINAC under steam, with a sailboat and lighthouse in the background. An engraving of the grand salon on the CITY OF CLEVELAND.
- Date Issued:
- 1889-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Maritime
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting houses along the east side of E Grand Boulevard. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Apr 28, 1913.
- Date Issued:
- 1913-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- Half-folded Easter dinner menu from the Hotel Charlevoix. The menu is printed on blue and white marbled cardstock, and has a purple ribbon through its crease to resemble binding. A blue illustration of a potted plant is on the cover. Dinner offering are listed within at a flat price of $1. H.M. Kellogg is listed as the manager, and the Grinnell Realty Company is listed as the proprietor.
- Date Issued:
- 1915-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- 9-page letter handwritten in black ink on slightly yellowed paper by Carlos E. Warner, President of the Chamber of Commerce. The letter pages are bound at the top with a narrow red ribbon. The text of the letter has been transcribed as follows: "Paper by Carlos E. Warner Subject: The Chamber of Commerce I am requested by the present mayor of the City, Hon. Wm. C. Maybury to prepare a paper on the subject of the Chamber of Commerce, of which organization I am now President, to be deposited in the City strong box, sealed and opened at the dawn of the 21st Century. One must necessarily be impressed with the gravity of such an undertaking. To write for public reading, when it is known that the hand which pens these lines will long since have passed away; that an entire generation will have come and gone, leaving behind it only its works and history; that all living things at the present writing shall have perished leaving not even a memory behind; that the twentieth century, profiting by the accumulated wisdom [of] experience, progress, inventive genius and scientific skill of the century now closing, shall go on and on with rapid strides, well nigh exploring the mysteries of the infinite and making what seems today to be questions of great importance, but minor ones in future thought and progress, then may one well hesitate and ponder. Who shall read these lines and what hand shall pluck them from the strong box of the City and being then for the public gaze; What changes shall occur; What progress shall be made in the incoming century, in the social, physical, political and religious worlds? One can but speculate upon these great problems and the wildcat conjecture of the present day may fall far from that of the reality in the time to come. Regarding the Chamber of Commerce I am requested to write something which if not useful, may be interesting to the people of a hundred years hence. The movement for the organization of a Chamber of Commerce in Detroit had had its inception in September 1891. Wm. H. Beasly then Editor of the Detroit Journal devoted much of his time and energy to it and, in connection with Mr. Alexander A Bonstelle its first secretary, may be regarded as the founder of the association. The first meeting of the association was held at Philharmonic Hall, corner of Lafayette Ave. and Shelby St. on January 5, 1892. Hon. Thomas W. Palmer, ex Senator and ex U.S. Minister to Spain, under President Benjamin Harrison presided at the meeting at which a constitution prepared by Hon. Don M. Dickinson, U.S. Postmaster General under President Cleveland, and Hon. Alfred Russel [Russell], both of whom are now leading lawyers in this City, was adopted and the first officers of the association chosen. The officers consisted of Hon. George H. Barbour, President, Hon. Rufus W. Gillett, 1st Vice president, Hon. Hazen S. Pingree (now Governor of the State), 2nd Vice president, Alexander A. Bonstelle, Secretary, and M. W. O'Brien, Treasurer. The present organization, known as 'The Detroit Chamber of Commerce and Convention League,' is the successor of this primary organization. It has for its object, the advancement of the public interests of the City; the development of all legitimate enterprises tending to increase its prosperity; uniting of the energies and influence of its citizens upon all subjects affecting its welfare; the diffusion of information concerning manufactures, trade and business and the cultivation of friendly relations and the promotion of equitable principles among the businessmen of the City. Its officers and directors at the present time are as follows: President, Carlos E. Warner, the writer of these lines, a lawyer by profession and head of the law firm of Warner, Codd and Warner. 1st Vice President, William J. Chittenden, proprietor of the Russel House. 2nd Vice President, Frederick G. Smith, manager of the Wolverine Manufacturing Company. Treasurer, A. F. Wolfschlager, general passenger and ticket agent of the Wabash Railway. Secretary, Mr. J. F. Walsh. Directors, Messrs. A. E. F. White, John Walker, George M. Black, Joseph, S. Hall, John C. Hutchins, Fred C. Postal, Wm. Livingstone, Jr., Dewitt C. Delamater, James H. Swait, Abram P. Sherrill, Augustus A. Schantz, Orrin R. Baldwin, Wm. A. P----, Clarence M. Hayes, Walter E. Campbell, Homer Warren, A. F. Wolfshlager, Wm. A. C. Miller, and Thomas Craig. The organization is of a quasi-public character and unofficially represents the commercial and industrial interests of the City. It is of a voluntary character and while supported by dues from its members yet is entirely dependent upon their voluntary contributions. The officers and directors hold monthly meetings at which matters affecting the public interests of the City are brought up and discussed and such action taken as may be deemed proper to advance the interests and promote the general welfare of the City. It is only effective by reason of this influence which such a representative body of men is assumed to possess. Its opinion is brought to bear upon questions vitally affecting public interests. One of the questions which have agitated the public of the City in the later years of the nineteenth century is the municipal ownership of public utilities like street railways, another the question of corporate properties and franchises including not only their physical properties but their so called intangible values. Another the problem of municipal government and corruption in municipal affairs. The Spanish War so called now lately ended by the [ceding?] to the United States of Spanish interests in Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Philippine Islands, has emphasized the necessity of an interoceanic canal or waterway between the waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and the construction of the so called Nicaragua or some other isthmian canal, has lately received the encouragement and endorsement not only of our organization but of other chambers of commerce throughout our country. These questions, and others of like import, are demanding at the present time the best thought of statesmen and economists and their solution will require the best judgment of the incoming twentieth century. In so far as the financial results of the organization in advancing the physical aspects of the City are concerned reference may be had to the twelve (12) story Chamber of Commerce building at the corner of Griswold and State Streets. This building is modern in construction, much of it brick and steel, and strictly fire proof and stands as a graceful monument to the enterprise of the association. The major part of the land upon which the building was erected was bought from Seymour Finney, lately deceased, who during his life was prominent in the social political and religious history of the city and who was one of its pioneers. The land was bought and the building was constructed with the aid of bonuses contributed by the citizens of the City and the adjacent landowners. As the representative head of the organization I trust that I may be permitted to express the hope that its influence has not been entirely lacking in the growth development and prosperity of the City in its [?] and physical aspects and that the citizens who, at the dawn of the twenty first century, shall occupy its century, inhabit its houses, walk its streets and be entrusted with its affairs may be richer and better for this work which it has accomplished and this influence which it has exerted. In the name and behalf of the organization I greet the citizens of Detroit at the beginning of the twenty first century and though long since departed from you, I present this evidence of an existing and more or less potent vitality, who is much interested in the future growth and prosperity of this beautiful City and in making and continuing it a City of which future generations may still be proud. Carlos Edgar Warner Attorney at Law, Ex President of the Board of Education and now President of the Chamber of Commerce and Convention League - aged 53 years. Detroit, Mich. December 31st A.D. 1900."
- Date Issued:
- 1900-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Detroit Anniversaries
- Description:
- Color postcard depicting the floral clock in Water Works Park, with a smokestack in the background. Printed on verso: Floral Clock, Water Works Park. The 72-acre plot of ground on Jefferson Avenue, owned by the city and partially occupied by its waterworks pumping station has been made one of Detroit's beauty spots. The water supply is pumped through a long tunnel from Lake St. Clair to the distributing point. The park is remarkable for its big floral clock and the memorial at the entrance. Handwritten message on verso, postmarked Aug 11, 1908.
- Date Issued:
- 1908-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Postcard
- Description:
- D.M. Ferry and Company trade card advertising pansies A color illustration of the flowers, from the Calvert Lithograph Company, "painted from actual specimens," according to the caption, as well as the copyright date, 1889, are on the recto. The verso contains a description of the plant, and a price list for its different varieties.
- Date Issued:
- 1889-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail
- Description:
- A letter from Ralph Emery, a clerk working for the Detroit Stove Works, to his father, Robert T. Emery, in Belfast, Maine, dated October 23, 1886. The letter is written on Detroit Stove Works letterhead, which features a lithograph, credited to the Calvert Lithograph Company, depicting the Detroit Stove Works offices in Detroit and Chicago as well as the company's foundry in Hamtramck, Michigan. The letter reads: My dear Father, Was glad to receive your last letter. For the past week have been unusually busy, as one of the young men in the office has been off all the week owing to the death of his sister, so I have been doing most of his work as well as my own. The Hazeltines arrived week today - you don't know how good it seems to see them although have been so busy have not seen as much of them as would like to. Mrs. H + Mary leave for Montreal Monday, Mr. H will remain two weeks longer. He has been at the Point shooting all the week but will probably be up today. Notice by the papers this morning that a very serious fire was raging in Farmington [Maine] + that it was not totally under control last reports. The sooner the Maine towns get water supply the better they will be off. We have had no ice yet, + weather at present quite warm. If you see Will Morison tell him if he comes out West to be sure + let me know + stop off here sure. Today is the last day of Registration before election + I must go get registered. Hoping you are all well + with kindest regards to all friends, remain Your affec. Son, Ralph Emery
- Date Issued:
- 1886-01-01T00:00:00Z
- Data Provider:
- Detroit Historical Society
- Collection:
- Business/Stores/Retail