Monuments in Detroit
Founded in 1701, Detroit has had a long and rich history that has been memorialized through the creation of numerous monuments. These monuments add to the beauty and decor of the city itself while maintaining the legacy of their creators. Those looking to explore Detroit should research these monuments to appreciate the historical legacy of a city that should be known for much more than producing automobiles.
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War Time Heros
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Across from Kennedy Square rests the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, a sculpture designed by Randolph Rogers. The monument was first revealed on Apr 9, 1872. The purpose of the sculpture is to honor the more than 90,000 troops from Michigan who fought against the Confederacy during the Civil War as well as the 14,823 Michigan troops who died in battle. Resting on top of the 60 foot monument is an 11 foot female figure holding a sword and shield. Four figures rest below her and symbolize Union, History, Emancipation and Victory. Also incorporated into the sculpture are bronze statues of a cavalryman, an artilleryman, a sailor and an infantryman. Plaques depicting Abraham Lincoln, Generals Sherman and Grant and Admiral Farragut are also displayed on the sculpture along with four screaming eagles.
Fox Theater
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Spanning an entire block of Woodward Avenue in Detroit is the Fox Theater Building, which was first constructed in 1928. The theater was designed by William Fox, known in Detroit as a theater promoter and developer. The theater was commissioned by C. Howard Crane. The Fox Theater Building stands 10 stories tall and features a steel frame construction. The main lobby is five stories tall and resting above it is an auditorium that seats more than 5,000 people. This Detroit landmark is open on a daily basis.
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A Fist Full Of Controversy
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Robert Graham designed a sculpture of the late heavyweight boxing champion from Detroit Joe Louis. The 24 foot tall sculpture was commissioned by Sports Illustrated Magazine and cost $350,000. Robert Graham did not want to make a simple statue of the Brown Bomber and instead created a giant fist to represent the heavyweight champ. Made entirely of bronze, the fist received some controversy when it debuted in 1987. Residents of Detroit were initially confused and wondered if it was a symbol of black power. They also questioned why a boxing glove was not covering the fist. However, Graham defends his work and encourages people to bring their own interpretation to it.
That's The Spirit
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Commissioned in 1955 and dedicated in 1958, the Spirit of Detroit is perhaps the most recognizable outdoor monument in Detroit. The bronze statue features a seated figure who holds a gilt bronze sphere in his left hand which is emanating rays. The emanating rays symbolize God. In his right hand he holds a family which symbolizes all human relationships. The statute was created by Marshall Fredericks who never named it the Spirit of Detroit himself. However, residents soon began referring to it as the Spirit of Detroit and the name has stuck ever since.
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