A Detroit
Neighborhood:
Then and Now
Detroit's Cass Henry Historic District reflects the city's rich architectural and cultural legacy, anchored by late 19th- and early 20th-century commercial buildings that once supported a thriving corridor of neighborhood businesses, offices, and light industry. Originally a hub of commerce serving nearby residential communities and downtown, the district embodies Detroit's spirit of entrepreneurship and craftsmanship.
Timeline
1900
The Henry building is built in the Federal Colonial Revival style and is the oldest building on the block. Now called the “Henry Flats,” it will offer six half-floor units.
1900
The Henry building is built in the Federal Colonial Revival style and is the oldest building on the block. Now called the “Henry Flats,” it will offer six half-floor units.
1906
“The Grande” is completed. Originally an apartment building, it later operated as the “Hotel Ansonia.” “The Grande” will reopen with 16 newly updated apartments.
1915-1916
In 1915, “The Berwin,” “Bretton Hall,” and “The Atlanta” were constructed as similar “apartment hotels” intended for short-term stays. Today, with their careful preservation and restoration, the three buildings will add over 100 new residences.
A year later in 1916, “The Claridge” was built. Its restoration will add over 40 new residences to the neighborhood.
1915-1916
In 1915, “The Berwyn,” “Bretton Hall,” and “The Atlanta” were constructed as similar “apartment hotels” intended for short-term stays. Today, with their careful preservation and restoration, the three buildings will add over 100 new residences.
A year later, in 1916, "The Claridge" was built. Its restoration will add over 40 new residences to the neighborhood. A year later in 1916, “The Claridge” was built. Its restoration will add over 40 new residences to the neighborhood.
1922
The “William B. Ralston Garage,” an auto repair shop, opened for business. It was converted to a bowling alley and was repurposed again as Town Center Laundry. It will reopen as the “Ralston Commons,” a community center providing a wide range of services to tenants.
2018
For their embodiment of vibrancy, community, and their combined landmarks of authentic Detroit architecture, the block was designated as the Cass-Henry Historic District by the Detroit Historic Commission.
2018
For their embodiment of vibrancy, community, and their combined landmarks of authentic Detroit architecture, the block was designated as the Cass-Henry Historic District by the City of Detroit.
2024
Restoration and construction begins on The Henry Street Apartments development. When completed, the buildings will add 170 new residential units in Detroit.
