In 1950 Detroit was the fifth most populous city in the United States with 1.8 million people living within its boundaries. Its downtown streets bustled with activity. Away from the city center, the neighborhoods were vibrant and active. By 1979, however, the Motor City had lost over one third of its residents. Factories, shops, and theaters closed down, businesses moved to the suburbs, neighborhoods began deteriorating, and crime was on the rise. Despite the city’s problems, the bonds of friendship and family along with memories of “the good old days� compelled some Detroiters to remain near their roots and continue life as usual in and around the city. Historic Photos of Detroit in the 50s, 60s, and 70s documents what a Metro Detroiter would have experienced through those decades, from the commonplace—like bad traffic and bad weather—to the historic—like a visit from John F. Kennedy and a baseball world championship. In this companion volume to Historic Photos of Detroit, Mary J. Wallace gives readers an inside look at the ups and downs of one of the most interesting and relevant cities of the twentieth century.

Detroit is an American city quintessentially founded upon change. From its birth to the present, Detroit has consistently built and reshaped its appearance, ideals, and industry. Through changing fortunes, Detroit has continued to grow and prosper by overcoming adversity and maintaining the strong, independent culture of its citizens. Historic Photos of Detroit captures this journey through still photography selected from the finest archives. From Detroit as pioneer of the motor vehicle to becoming the main hub for World War munitions, Historic Photos of Detroit follows life, government, education, and events throughout the city’s history. This volume captures unique and rare scenes through the lens of hundreds of historic photographs. Published in striking black and white, these images communicate historic events and everyday life of two centuries of people building a unique and prosperous city. Looking for more history of Detroit? Check out the companion title Historic Photos of Detroit in the 50s, 60s, and 70s.