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Welcome to Ypsilanti!
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The city, initially named Woodruff's Grove, was founded by pioneers in 1823. It was re-named Ypsilanti in honor of a Greek war hero, Demetrius Ypsilanti. A main route from Detroit to Chicago (now US-12, and originally an Indian trail) runs through the city. The railroad came to the city in 1838, and Ypsilanti became a major stopping point for travelers between Detroit and the west. Industry sprung up along the Huron River, taking advantage of its water power. Paper and wool mills, sawmills, and later car manufacturing brought the city wealth. The railroad brought goods as well as people, and merchants flourished. Many of the homes on the walking tour were built by those who made their fortunes from these businesses. The Michigan State Normal School, now Eastern Michigan University, was founded here in 1849. |  |
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Ypsilanti is fortunate to have retained much of its diverse architecture built in the 19th century; not all cities have such preservation-minded citizens. A locally designated historic district, consisting of approximately 185 buildings, was formed in 1978. All buildings on the tour are within the boundaries of the district, which is bordered by Forest, Grove, Buffalo and Hamilton streets. An extension to the original district was formed in 1989, bringing the boundaries south and west to Michigan Ave. and Summit Street.
Once an address only the elite could afford, the homes on the route overlook the Huron River, and most had large gardens at one time. A walk along this main thoroughfare, Huron Street, will reveal many styles of period architecture. Enjoy! |  |
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(Although a few of the buildings on the tour are public, most are privately owned. Please protect the owners' privacy while touring and be respectful of their properties. Architectural details mentioned can all be seen from the sidewalk.)
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* Photos on this tour by Brian Looper Photography
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