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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--burton-brothers-construction-company.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--burton-brothers-construction-company.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – Burton Brothers Construction Company</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we presented the history of 1024 Buckingham, a brick built Colonial, completed in 1941 for Miles O’Brien. It was designed by John W. Detwiler and built by the Burton Brothers Construction Company.


A few weeks ago, we began introducing the work of some extremely talented, yet lesser-known designers/builders who worked throughout Metro Detroit during the 1920’s – 1930’s. This week we continue with the series as we introduce more of the homes designed and/or built by the Burton Brothers Construction Company.


The Burton Brothers Construction Company (BBCC) was founded around 1922. It is understood the firm originally began as a custom home builder. As the company grew, so did its reputation, they were hired to design and/or construct fine homes in the affluent neighborhoods of Metro Detroit, including Birmingham, Sherwood Forest, Palmer Woods. It appears in most cases the company designed the home as well as building it, but on occasion they worked in conjunction with an architect such as Richard Marr, H. Sanborn Brown, and John W. Detwiler.


Much of their work in Grosse Pointe was in the Park, most of which were speculative homes. The definition of a speculative house is - ‘a residence built without a particular buyer in mind or under contract but designed to appeal to the maximum market possible’. During the 1920’s numerous noted designers created homes in the community. The homes varied in size, and many were grand affairs. It was quite common for the builder to then sell the home themselves, some of which were advertised in the Detroit Free Press.


The following homes are just some of the residences the Burton Brothers Construction Company designed and/or built in Grosse Pointe.


1324 Grayton – 1924 - Designed and built by the Burton Construction Company.


It appears 1324 Grayton was one of the companies’ earliest projects in Grosse Pointe. Image courtesy of: GoogleEarth


 




1027 Bishop – 1927 - Designed and built by the Burton Construction Company.


1144 Berkshire - 1927- Designed and built by the Burton Construction Company.


 


1011 Buckingham - 1928 - Designed and built by the Burton Construction Company.







The next three homes all have a large dominant triangular section on the front elevation with distinctive brickwork – they are all very striking. 


1169 Berkshire – 1928 - 1924 - Designed and built by the Burton Construction Company. Image courtesy of: Realtor.com






1029 Kensington – 1929 - Designed and built by the Burton Construction Company.


 




1040 Kensington – 1929 - Designed and built by the Burton Construction Company.







1119 Devonshire – 1930 - Designed and built by the Burton Construction Company.


This handsome Tudor home appeared in the Detroit Free Press (June 1931). It was part of several homes that was featured under the heading “Building Trade Here Sees New Trend in Home Styles”. This 5-bed home was “priced for a quick sale”. The interior had oak paneling in the dining room, wood floors throughout and an abundance of fine architectural details. It was sold by (BBCC) in October 1931.










630 Washington – 1930 - Designed and built by the Burton Construction Company. Ad from: Detroit Free Press (March 1931). 







1024 Buckingham – 1936 - Designed by John W. Detwiler, built by the Burton Construction Company.


1024 Buckingham, commissioned by Miles O’Brien, was started in 1937 but not finished until 1941. Given who designed the house and the company that built it, the house was of the upmost quality - most unusual for a home of this age it was built with full insulation (including rock wool in the walls).  





The following four homes were a collaboration between the architect H. Sanborn Brown, and the Burton Construction Company. Once again, it is believed these were all spec homes.


308 Touraine (the original address was 198 Touraine) – 1938 - Designed by H. Sanborn Brown, built by the Burton Construction Company.


The 3,448 sq ft, four-bedroom Early American style residence. Based on our files it appears the Burton Brothers listed the home for sale, in 1938, for $27,500 (around $503,000 today).





307 Touraine(the original address was 198 Touraine) – 1939 - Designed by H. Sanborn Brown, built by the Burton Construction Company.


In 1939, H. Sanborn Brown completed 307 Touraine, a 3,444 sq ft traditional center entrance Colonial style home - an incredibly popular approach in Grosse Pointe during this era. This property was another speculative home, built by the Burton Brothers Construction Company.





792 Whittier - 1939 - Designed by H. Sanborn Brown, built by the Burton Construction Company.


H. Sanford Brown’s collaboration with the Burton Brothers continued, with the completion of 74 Oxford, a 4,630 sq ft French inspired residence completed in 1940.





It is understood the Burton Brothers Construction Company was most active during the 1920’s through to the 1940’s. In presenting the work of these unsung builders and designers who worked in Grosse Pointe during the first half of the 20th century, it ensures the less prominent, yet equally stunning homes, have a chance to showcase their stories. And in some way every home in Grosse Pointe has an interesting story to tell.


 


* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2026 15:01:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--1024-buckingham.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--1024-buckingham.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – 1024 Buckingham</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we explored the work of architect William F. Goodrich who not only designed several fine homes in Grosse Pointe during the first half of the 20th Century but also created plans for an enormous 800 room hotel in Grosse Pointe Shores in 1914.


This week we stop by 1024 Buckingham, a striking Colonial Revival home completed in 1941 for Miles O’Brien. It was designed by John W. Detwiler and built by the Burton Brothers Construction Company.


1024 Buckingham, commissioned by Miles O’Brien, was started in 1937 but not finished until 1941. Given who designed the house and the company that built it, the house was of the upmost quality - most unusual for a home of this age it was built with full insulation (including rock wool in the walls). Over the years it has had several owners, the description below is from the listing when the property was for sale in 1984.





Construction and the interior were a very high standard, the vestibule had black ceramic tile, while the library had knotty pine paneling, 34 feet of built-in bookshelf space, and French doors to the rear patio. The dining room had unique wall panels and two sets of French doors leading to the patio. The main floor also had an enclosed breezeway with doors leading to the driveway the garage, and the kitchen. The second floor has four main bedrooms, each bedroom had substantial built in shelves and hanging space with several built-in bookcases. One room even had a built-in shoe rack – no expense was spared in ensuring this house had a lot of useful storage.


At the time of the listing (in 1984) our files state, extensive general carpentry totaling over $10,000 (around $32,000 today) was carried out throughout the home which included new doors, windows, construction of two new closets, shelves, a new cedar out of season closet, reconstruction of the staircase banister, plus installation of new railings and handrails. There was a complete overhaul of the wiring, fixtures and electric service (totaling over $6,000) and extensive work to the exterior – fencing, new concrete walkways, non-back-up basement drains and extensive backyard drainage (totaling over $4,200).





1024 Buckingham was completed during an era when Colonial Revival homes were incredibly popular, not just in Grosse Pointe but across the United States. Typical traits of this style are a strict rectangular shape with a steeply pitched hip roof (where all four sides of the roof slope down toward the walls). In general, Colonial Revival homes are usually two-story and built from brick or wood, or a combination of both. The front door is frequently centered – in this instance, the front door is set to the left. Frequently the entrance features an oversized door, sometimes with sidelights, a pediment supported by pilasters, a modest portico with columns, and/or decorative brick work accenting the entrance. The windows on either side of the front entrance tended to be six-over-six double-hung or in some instances a projecting bay window was a key feature on the first floor. On the second floor (above the entrance), in many cases, there is a general configuration of five windows. Commonly all the windows (on the first and second floor) have matching shutters in a color that compliments the house.


Colonial Revival homes built between 1910 and 1955, tended to be professionally designed and often boast interesting architectural details fashioned from highly durable materials. Source: wentworthstudio.com. Many of Detroit’s leading architects who designed homes in the Grosse Pointe communities from 1910 through to around 1950 opted to use this architectural approach.


Throughout the United States the popularity of the style began to recede during the 1950’s. While Colonial Revival homes continued to be constructed, the designs often bore a more simplified form. However, they have remained in high regard ever since. 


The architect, John W. Detwiler, was a retired vice-president of the Bryant-Detweiler Construction Company - noted for constructing such city landmarks such as the GM Tech Center, the Detroit Institute of Arts, the City - County Building, and the National Bank of Detroit’s downtown headquarters. John was the son of Ward A. Detwiler.


The firm of Bryant and Detwiler was found in 1904, when Ward Detwiler co-founded the construction company with John A. Bryant. By 1908, Bryant and Detwiler had become a corporation with Mr. Detwiler becoming president. The company began around the same time as the great industrial growth of the City of Detroit, which resulted in them erecting some of the largest and most significant factories, stores, and office buildings in the state of Michigan. Over the years Bryant and Detwiler worked with some of the most talented architects during the early twentieth century and gained the prestigious designation of “master builders”, with some of their constructions pronounced “superior for the purposes intended.” Source: Detroit Free Press (May 1913). Ward Detwiler and his first wife Mabel (who passed in 1915), had one son, John. Read the full story of Ward Detwiler here.


John Detwiler studied at Williams College in 1932; he then graduated from the school of Architecture at the University of Michigan in 1935. In September 1937, he married Helen Grawn. John was an avid sailor all his life and was a past commodore of the Detroit River Yachting Association. He was also a lieutenant commander in the Navy during World War II and was awarded the Silver Star.” Source: Detroit Free Press (July 1981). It is a distinct possibility 1024 Buckingham is the only home he designed in Grosse Pointe. John Detwiler retired in 1961 and passed on 10 July 1981.


1024 Buckingham is a magnificent home on a distinctive street in Grosse Pointe Park that has some incredible homes on display – look at its next-door neighbor


1024 Buckingham is currently for sale. Please contact our office to schedule a tour or click here to learn more.





 


* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 

 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 08:26:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--the-work-of-william-f-goodrich.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--the-work-of-william-f-goodrich.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – The Work of William F. Goodrich</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we presented the history of 70 Moran, “Sunnycroft”. This fine estate was designed by William Goodrich in 1916-17, for Cornelia Anderson. The property was partially demolished in 1946 and fully razed in 1957.


This week we delve deeper into the work of William F. Goodrich who created several fine homes in Grosse Pointe during the first half of the twentieth century.


William Goodrich, born on 6 August 1886 in Bay City, was a man of many talents. His career evolved from designing large formal residences in the early part of the 20thcentury, creating innovative homes with ‘artistic lines’, to producing some classic Colonial homes. It is clear he was a man with a deft touch for creating something out of the ordinary.While there is very little written about him, personally or professionally, we understand he had an office in Detroit and worked on numerous projects throughout the area. It appears one of his earliest connections with Grosse Pointe was in 1914, when he began creating plans for an enormous 800 room hotel in Grosse Pointe Shores. An article in Electrical World (Volume LXIII - January 3 to June 27, 1914) - reported “plans were being prepared by architect William F. Goodrich for the construction of a summer hotel, which required a power plant to be erected in connection with the hotel.” While the hotel was never built it paved the way for Goodrich to create several homes in Grosse Pointe.


70 Moran


One of his earliest projects was this grand English Cottage style residence designed in 1916-17, for Cornelia Anderson, widow of William K. Anderson (who passed in 1909). The property was partially demolished in 1946 and fully razed in 1957.


87 and 115 Lewiston 


In 1919, Goodrich, who had recently returned from military service (discharged as a first lieutenant after serving in Humphries, VA), created these two virtually identical Federal style homes for the Alexander Lewis Realty Company.Typical characteristics of this architectural approach include a simple rectangular structure with a flat façade and a flat roof, limited decorative elements, and an abundance of large windows across the front elevation arranged individually in strict horizontal and vertical lines. It has been suggested by many historians that the Federal style is a refinement of the Georgian style, however compared to the more elaborate Georgian style Federal inspired homes tend to be notably understated.


87 Lewiston is a 4,600 sq ft brick home features some stunning details, including 9 ½ ft ceilings, a large living room and dining room, along with four bedrooms and a sunroom. At some point, during the 1930’s or 1940’s the house was owned by Mrs. Julia (DuCharme) Marigliano – she was also known as Duchess del Monte. Julia was born in Detroit on 14 October 1869, she married Francesco Marigliano, Duke del Monte, in 1909. Ms. Del Monte listed 87 Lewiston for sale in 1950. She then lived with her sister, Mrs. Cyrus E. Lothrop, for a short period of time. She passed in September 1959, in Naples Italy.








Below is a photo of house number 115 Lewiston. As you can see it is built in the same style and similar spec to its close neighbor.





Further Homes on Lewiston


It appears Goodrich was commissioned by the Alexander Lewis Realty Company to build several more home on the Lewis Subdivision on Lewiston – the ad and image below is from the Detroit Free Press (August 1919). The article describes the home as “following simple, yet artistic lines, with ‘the interior of the house designed to facilitate efficiency in housekeeping.”





It was also reported in an earlier article (May 1919) that Goodrich “planned on building a group of hollow tile stucco residences on the new ‘Lewis Boulevard’, for the Alexander Lewis Realty Company.” It is not clear if all these homes were built.





515 University Place


In 1924, Goodrich designed 515 University Place. The Colonial style home displays all the classic traits of this architectural style, including a symmetrical front facade, central entrance, along with multiple multi-panel rectangular windows. It is believed the interior has 9’ ft ceilings, mahogany woodwork, along with a cherry paneled library.





1325 Bedford


Also in 1924, Goodrich worked on 1325 Bedford in Grosse Pointe Park, which had a very different look and feel to his previous projects in the community.





961 Westchester – 1925 - Image courtesy of GoogleEarth


 


1337 Berkshire - 1925 - Image courtesy of GoogleEarth


 


400 Lakeland – 1925 - Image courtesy of GoogleEarth


This English Manor has large circular stairs with an elegant carved oak stair rail, a formal dining room, pecan paneled library, and three large fireplaces.





875 Pemberton


Several years later, in 1935, he designed 875 Pemberton. A departure from his earlier work - the design bares all the traits of the popular brick Colonial homes that were being constructed during the 1930’s.





It is apparent William Goodrich had a long and successful career. The style of homes he was designing clearly evolved with the architectural trends of the respective era(s). Wouldn’t it be fascinating to see the plans for the hotel he had intended on creating in Grosse Pointe Shores.


 


* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2026 08:03:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--70-moran-sunnycroft.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--70-moran-sunnycroft.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – 70 Moran “Sunnycroft”</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we stopped by 39 Beverly Road, a lovely English Cottage style residence designed by Carey and Esselstyn for lawyer William H. Wells in 1927.


This week we stay with the theme of English Cottage style residences to present the story of 70 Moran, “Sunnycroft”, designed by William F. Goodrich in 1916-17, for Cornelia Anderson, widow of William K. Anderson (who passed in 1909). The property was partially demolished in 1946 and fully razed in 1957.


As the photo below demonstrates 70 Moran was a stunning residence created in an English Cottage style. This approach was popular in many areas of the United States from 1915 to 1940, not only for large residences, but for smaller homes too. Typical characteristics associated with this approach include an asymmetric configuration, a steeply pitched roof, large flat chimneys, arrangements’ of tall narrow windows, and multiple smaller windows (in bands). There are many fine examples of English Cottage style homes throughout Grosse Pointe. 70 Moran was a particularly nice example. Image courtesy of: Michigan Architect and Engineer, Volume 2, 1920.





We do not know how big “Sunnycroft” was – the house, or the lot, however, it is clear the interior of the home featured many wonderful, hand-crafted details including wood paneling, large decorative fireplaces, and beamed ceilings. The main floor had a drawing room with a grand fireplace, French doors and a library alcove. From there the living room could be accessed via two steps and an archway. The spacious paneled dining room also had French Doors, as did the striking logia that could be reached from the entrance hall. Images courtesy of: Michigan Architect and Engineer, Volume 2, 1920.

















The formal garden was also rather impressive. An upper terrace at the front of the residence featured an abundance of large trees, while a more formal lower terrace - with a pond, well-kept borders, and beautiful lawns - created a beautiful landscape at the rear of the home. The garden is an excellent example of some of the large, formal gardens that were found throughout Grosse Pointe during the early twentieth century. Despite several nationally renowned landscape architects coming to work in Grosse Pointe during this era it is not clear who designed the gardens at 70 Moran. Images courtesy of: Michigan Architect and Engineer, Volume 2, 1920.








The late William Kyle Anderson was born on 24 March 1847 in Owensboro, Kentucky in 1847. He was educated in his hometown, and then attended Michigan University, graduating in 1868. He then completed his education at the University of Berlin. It was reported he began his career as a cashier at a savings bank in Owensboro. In 1877 he returned to Detroit as manager of the Detroit Seed Co, and subsequently became a director of several companies owned by the Newberry-McMillan corporations. He then went onto the position of first vice-president and director of the Detroit Savings Bank, along with continually being associated with Senator McMillan and John S. Newberry. It is understood due to Mr. Andersons close association with the Macmillan and Newbury families he became interested in the pointes and built a summer home at the foot of Moran Road. Source: Grosse pointe News (February 1962). In 1897, Mr. Anderson was appointed consul to Hanover Germany by President William McKinley at which point the couple rented their summer home in Grosse Pointe. He returned to the United States in 1900 and went back to banking.


William Anderson married Cornelia Martha Cook in 1870 and they had a daughter, Catherine. Conelia was the daughter of Joseph Cook, whose father Abraham had owned the Cook Farm which would become Indian Village. They were married for 39 years, until Mr. Anderson’s death on 28 August 1909. Source: Grosse pointe News (February 1962).


After William Andersons passed, and before World War I Mrs. Anderson commissioned William F. Goodrich to design a new home, 70 Moran. It was reported Cornelia Anderson “sold their white pillared summer home to Hugo Scherer and moved to her new home, 70 Moran, “Sunnycroft”, which she had built on the cow pasture of her former summer residence.” Architect, William Goodrich was reputedly a man of many talents - while there is very little written about him, personally or professionally, we understand he had an office in Detroit and worked on numerous projects - from creating plans for an enormous 800 room hotel in Grosse Pointe Shores (in 1914) to designing several homes in Grosse Pointe. We will be featuring more of William Goodrich’s work next week.


In 1922, it was reported 70 Moran was leased to Mr. Hiram Walker for a period of two years. it appears Mrs. Anderson and her daughter had gone to live in New York – they then retook possession of 70 Moran in May 1928. The following year, in 1929, it was reported, “with Hugo Scherer, Mrs. Anderson subdivided some of the property to form Merriweather Road. Source: Grosse pointe News (February 1962).


Following Cornelia Anderson’s death on 15 June 1940, it is understood the Anderson’s daughter Catherine and her husband Charles L. Frederick moved into the property. It is reported 70 Moran was partly demolished in 1946, followed by a complete demolition in 1957, at which point the land was subdivided. It is now the location of a new residence, and two homes on Moran Court. Many of the magnificent trees still exist from the estate, between the area of Moran and the adjacent part of Merriweather Road.


 


* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 18 Aug 2026 07:49:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--39-beverly.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--39-beverly.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – 39 Beverly</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we presented some of the work of Horrace Esselstyn – this talented and sought-after engineer worked on some incredible projects across Metro Detroit and some stunning homes in Grosse Pointe during the 1920’s. 


This week we head to 39 Beverly Road, a lovely English Cottage style home that Horrace Esselstyn created with his partner of six years, architect Raymond Carey.


In September 1923 it was announced in the Detroit Free Press that Horrace Esselstyn had formed a practice with distinguished architect Raymond Carey. Carey &amp; Esselstyn worked together from 1923 to 1929. Much of their work was in the prestigious neighborhoods of Metro Detroit, including Grosse Pointe, where they designed at least 4 homes




       867 Balfour - 1923


       1104 Nottingham – 1926


       39 Beverly - 1927


       338 Provencal - 1928




39 Beverly was completed in 1927 for lawyer William H. Wells and his wife. The two-story 3,511 sq ft property is an English Cottage style home, displaying many typical characteristics associated with this approach – a steeply pitched slate roof, an oversized chimney, multiple small windows, a gable roof, and an asymmetric configuration. It is constructed from stone with a stucco exterior with the front elevation displaying an attractive band of leaded windows on the second floor. The garage is attached to the house.








It is understood Mr. Wells added an addition to the home in 1929. However, the Wells family did not live in their new home for long since it was leased to Lee Anderson from 1929-1935. Mr. Anderson was president of Advertisers, Inc., a company that dissolved at his retirement. Anderson was also a sportswriter for the Detroit News (between 1903-09), then advertising manager for Chalmers Motor Company (from 1910 until 1928), following which he formed his own advertising company. It is understood Mr. Anderson was known for originating the slogan, &quot;Body by Fisher.&quot;


In 1936 it appears 39 Beverly went through foreclosure (it is not clear who owned it at that time), and the house was subsequently purchased by Mr. and Mrs. William Rust Pierce (Henrietta Warnick Kernan). It was reported Mrs. Pierce was the founder of Walton Pierce, a couture shop in Detroit in the 1930's and 1940's that moved to Grosse Pointe around 1950. It is alleged it was the only dress shop on the east side of Detroit that brought out its own collections twice a year. The house remained with the Pierce family until 1983.


Horrace Esselstyn’s partner, Raymond Marwood-Elton Carey, was born in Guernsey, Channel Islands (United Kingdom) on 27 August 1883. He was educated in Bath but by 1901 he had relocated to London where he spent many years working for several prestigious architects. It is reported, in documents from the Royal Institute of British Architects in London, “Carey possessed impeccable professional credentials which he obtained during his residency with us.” We also leaned “in 1901-03, he was associated with none other than Charles F.A. Voysey, the acknowledged master of the Arts &amp; Crafts style in England. From 1903-05 he continued his training under the prominent architect Leonard A.S. Stokes and remained with him as a draftsman until 1907. Carey then traveled in Italy for a full year, returning to London in 1909.” Source: dictionaryofarchitectsincanada.org. 


In 1909, Carey relocated to Winnipeg, Canada. Aged 26 it is reported he arrived armed with an “extensive knowledge of contemporary design trends from England, and a wealth of experience,” having been surround by some of the finest Georgian residences in the world. This level of experience and inspiration influenced much of Carey’s career, particularly many of the homes he would eventually work on in Grosse Pointe. However, it is alleged that while Carey was highly regarded in Michigan, he was “an underrated figure in the architectural history of Winnipeg.” Source: dictionaryofarchitectsincanada.org


Carey worked in Winnipeg for several years as a draftsman, then went to San Francisco, before returning to Winnipeg to open an office in early 1911. During this time, he formed a partnership with John Woodman. Together they designed several significant commercial and industrial buildings, along with several splendid residences. It is reported “Carey introduced a new and elegant repertoire of architectural design and detail to the Winnipeg scene.” Source: dictionaryofarchitectsincanada.org. By 1917, Carey had ceased working with John Woodman and had formed a partnership with George W. Northwood to form the firm of Northwood &amp; Carey.


Around 1922, Carey relocated to Detroit to continue his career. He initially operated under his own name, but by 1923, had formed a partnership with engineer Horace Esselstyn. It was during this period that Carey “produced some of the most distinctive and sumptuous residential masterpieces of his career.” Much of his work was in the prestigious neighborhoods of Metro Detroit, particularly Grosse Pointe Farms.  It is acknowledged he designed more than 15 homes in the community, most of which were in his signature Georgian and Tudor Revival styles. Click here to read more here.


39 Beverly is one of the prestigious residences that was constructed between 1911 and 1936 on this private street for prominent corporate executives and lawyers who sought to live in the affluent neighborhood of Grosse Pointe Farms. Beverly Road is the only road in the Grosse Pointe communities that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  The district was one of the earliest upper-class subdivisions in the Grosse Pointes and played a major role in the area becoming an upscale community for wealthy Detroiters.


 


* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 

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    <pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 08:08:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--engineer-horrace-esselstyn.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--engineer-horrace-esselstyn.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – Engineer Horrace Esselstyn</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we presented four homes that were designed and built by the talented duo of Raymond Carey and his partner, Horrace Esselstyn, between 1923 – 1929. Together Carey and Esselstyn created many fine residences along with several key buildings in Detroit.


This week we continue with the work of Horrace Esselstyn as we explore more of his creations and career history – this talented engineer worked on some incredible projects in Grosse Pointe and across Metro Detroit. 


A successful engineer, Horace Hovey Esselstyn was described as an “outspoken” and “colorful figure” who “played a large part in building modern Detroit.” He was born in Detroit on 26 December 1874. A couple of years later the family decided to move back to Syracuse, New York where they were originally from. His father was a successful photographer and reopened his studio in the city. In 1898, aged 14, it is understood Esselstyn briefly joined the US Army during the Spanish-American War, however with the war nearly over he was discharged only a month later. Having graduated as an engineer he moved to Puerto Rico to build highways, this was followed by time working in Japan. In 1904, he married Clara Gillespie. They initially lived in Washington, D.C. but by 1909, they had moved back to Detroit to continue his career. Aside from being hired to build residences he also “helped to design many of Detroit’s big buildings, including several erected by the Detroit Edison Co., and supervised construction on the Belle Isle and Ambassador bridges. Other major projects he worked on was the role he played in the electrification of the Grand Rapids, Grand Haven and Muskegon Railways, and the Great Falls &amp; Old Dominion Railway.” Source: Detroit Free Press (January 1958). It was also reported during World War I the government made him supervisor of construction for the Hog Island Shipyard near Philadelphia.


Aside from being a highly sought-after engineer Esselstyn was involved in public service, serving as Detroit Commissioner of Public Works for a year in 1918 and later serving as Commissioner of Street Railways. He also ran unsuccessfully for mayor of Detroit in 1927.” Source: wikitree.com


After World War I Esselstyn was partnered with Murphy &amp; Hanford. It was during this time the firm created several homes on Rivard, including


497 Rivard - 1918


 


487 Rivard – 1919


This center entrance clapboard Colonial home  was arguably Esselstyn’s most noted residence. It was commissioned by Bernard Stroh Jr. (of the Stroh Brewery Company). The 6,299 sq ft home is exquisite with wonderful interior features, including a stunning entrance hall, high ceilings, one of the best examples of a flying staircases in Grosse Pointe, along with beautiful Pewabic and ceramic tile throughout. You can read the full story by clicking here.





502 Rivard – 1919





By 1922 the firm of Esselstyn, Murphy &amp; Hanford had become Esselstyn, Murphy &amp; Burns. One of the finest homes they created was 329 Grosse Pointe Blvd, built in 1922. It is a beautiful Italian styled home with superb architectural details on the front elevation. The design features an abundance of arches - on the entranceway, above the first-floor windows, and delicate brick detailing on the chimneys.





In September 1923 it was announced in the Detroit Free Press that Esselstyn had formed a practice with distinguished architect Raymond Carey. Carey &amp; Esselstyn worked together from 1923 to 1929. It was during this period that Carey “produced some of the most distinctive and sumptuous residential masterpieces of his career.” Much of their work was in the prestigious neighborhoods of Metro Detroit, including Grosse Pointe, where they designed at least 4 homes




       867 Balfour - 1923


       1104 Nottingham – 1926


       39 Beverly - 1927


       338 Provencal - 1928




Aside from residences, it is understood Carey &amp; Esselstyn are credited with working on several key projects in Detroit including – (Source: dictionaryofarchitectsincanada.org)




       Gately’s Department Store on Michigan Avenue


       Belle Isle Bridge (1924)


       Detroit Receiving Hospital, Nurse’s Home, and Annex (1924-26)


       Detroit’s Woods Cathedral in Lasalle Gardens (1925)


       Two schools for the City of Detroit


       Fourteenth Precinct-Detroit Police Station, on Coolidge Highway (1926–27)


       A factory for the Mississippi Glass Company


       An office building for the Detroit Automobile Company (owned by Henry Ford)




In 1932, it was reported Horrace Esselstyn moved to San Diego where he held the post of city manager. Upon returning to Michigan (year unknown) he partnered in several engineering firms. He passed on 08 Jan 1958 in Detroit.


 


The “colorful figure” of Horrace H. Esselstyn played a large part of influencing the architectural scene in Detroit. And here in Grosse Pointe he certainly helped shape some stunning homes.


 


* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 


 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 04 Aug 2026 11:36:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--carey-and-esselstyn.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--carey-and-esselstyn.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – Carey and Esselstyn</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we presented the work of Roland Tempest a lesser-known designer who created at least 3 sublime homes in Grosse Pointe during the 1920’s, including 22 Sunningdale which has had several prominent owners.


This week we turn our attention to four homes that were designed and built by the talented duo of Raymond Carey and his partner, Horrace Esselstyn, between 1923 – 1929. Together Carey and Esselstyn created many fine residences along with several key buildings in Detroit.


Raymond Carey – Architect


Raymond Marwood-Elton Carey was born in Guernsey, Channel Islands (United Kingdom) on 27 August 1883. He was educated in Bath, but by 1901, he had relocated to London where he spent many years working for several prestigious architects. It is reported, in documents from the Royal Institute of British Architects in London, “Carey possessed impeccable professional credentials which he obtained during his residency with us.” We also leaned “in 1901-03, he was associated with Charles F.A. Voysey, the acknowledged master of the Arts &amp; Crafts style in England. From 1903-05 he continued his training under the prominent architect Leonard A.S. Stokes and remained with him as a draftsman until 1907. Carey then traveled in Italy for a full year, returning to London in 1909.” Source: dictionaryofarchitectsincanada.org


In 1909, Carey relocated to Winnipeg, Canada. Aged 26 it is reported he arrived armed with an “extensive knowledge of contemporary design trends from England, and a wealth of experience,” having been surround by some of the finest Georgian residences in the world. This level of experience and inspiration influenced much of Carey’s career, particularly many of the homes he would eventually create in Grosse Pointe. While in Winnipeg Carey worked as a draftsman, then went to San Francisco, before returning to Winnipeg to open an office in early 1911. It is reported “Carey introduced a new and elegant repertoire of architectural design and detail to the Winnipeg scene.” Source: dictionaryofarchitectsincanada.org. Around 1922, Carey relocated to Detroit to continue his career. He initially operated under his own name, but by 1923, had formed a partnership with engineer Horace H. Esselstyn.


Horrace Esselstyn – Engineer


Horace Hovey Esselstyn was born in Detroit on 26 December 1874. A couple of years after he was born the family decided to move back to Syracuse, New York where they were originally from. His father was a successful photographer and reopened his studio in the city. It is reported “Horace pursued a very successful career in civil engineering and as an architect. He briefly joined the US Army in 1898 during the Spanish-American War, but the war was nearly over, and he was discharged only a month later. In 1904, he married Clara Gillespie. They lived initially in Washington, D.C. but by 1910, they had settled in Detroit. Aside from being a successful engineer Esselstyn was involved in public service, serving as Detroit Commissioner of Public Works for a year in 1918 and later serving as Commissioner of Street Railways. He also ran unsuccessfully for mayor of Detroit in 1927.” Source: wikitree.com


Carey &amp; Esselstyn worked together from 1923 to 1929. It was during this period that Carey “produced some of the most distinctive and sumptuous residential masterpieces of his career.” Much of his work was in the prestigious neighborhoods of Metro Detroit, particularly Grosse Pointe.  It is acknowledged he designed more than 15 homes in the community, most of which were in his signature Georgian and Tudor Revival styles. Some of his projects in the community he worked on during his partnership with Esselstyn include –


867 Balfour (built in 1923) for Charles C. Smith


A grand English style home with exquisite brickwork. It was built by Charles C. Smith (a builder and designer) who also owned the property for nearly five years. In January 1928, the house was sold to Walter L. Dunham, president of the Detroit Savings bank. Second image courtesy of: Detroit Free Press (January 1928).








1104 Nottingham Road (built in 1926) for John H. Lyons


A striking English style home with the second floor covered in cedar shingles, it is quite unique. Image courtesy of GoogleEarth.





39 Beverly Road (built in 1927) for William H. Wells


39 Beverly is a distinctive Cottage style home finished in stucco – we will have the full story about this home soon.





338 Provencal (built in 1928) for Howard F. Smith


338 Provencal was created for Howard F. Smith, VP of the Canada and Dominion Sugar Company, it is a stone Tudor residence with all the hallmarks of an English estate. The asymmetric design has elegant limestone detailing around the large bay windows on the first floor, along with a striking slate roof – typical of homes created in this architectural style. The exterior also included a sundial – located above the dining room windows, as depicted in the photo below. Sundial – Courtesy of www.luxuryrealestate.com








Aside from residences, it is understood Carey &amp; Esselstyn are credited with working on several key projects in Detroit including – (Source: dictionaryofarchitectsincanada.org)




       Gately’s Department Store on Michigan Avenue


       Belle Isle Bridge (1924)


       Detroit Receiving Hospital, Nurse’s Home, and Annex (1924-26)


       Two schools for the City of Detroit


       Fourteenth Precinct-Detroit Police Station, on Coolidge Highway (1926–27)


       A factory for the Mississippi Glass Company


       An office building for the Detroit Automobile Company (owned by Henry Ford)


       Detroit’s Woods Cathedral in Lasalle Gardens (1925)




While the partnership of Raymond Carey and Horrace Esselstyn didn’t last all that long, in the five years together they created some “sumptuous residential masterpieces”.


 


* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 08:31:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--architect-roland-tempest.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--architect-roland-tempest.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – Architect Roland Tempest</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we presented the history of two significant men who played a large part in shaping Grosse Pointe into the community we know today - Geroge Lothrop and Theadore Hall. Lothrop built a summer cottage, known as “Summerside” while Hall built a majestic estate named Tonnancour.


A few weeks ago, we began introducing the work of some extremely talented, yet lesser-known designers/builders who worked throughout Metro Detroit during the 1920’s – 1930’s. This week we continue with the series as we introduce three homes Roland Tempest designed in Grosse Pointe during the 1920’s.


Rolland W. Tempest was born on 8 January 1891 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Having grown up in the city he attended the University of Pennsylvania where he graduated in 1915 with a degree in architecture. At some point he relocated to Detroit to work as an architect where we would create numerous fine residences in the affluent suburbs of Detroit, including Grosse Pointe, Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills. He passed in Salt Lake City on 20 November 1972.


It appears Roland Tempest created at least three homes in Grosse Pointe during the late 1920’s, including:


22 Sunningdale Drive - 1927


22 Sunningdale (original address was 36 Lochmoor) was built for Charles E. Bird treasurer and part owner of the S. L. Bird Company Department Store, which was located on Washington Blvd. It is a stunning 5,000 Sq Ft Spanish style home in Grosse Pointe Shores. It originally had a frontage of 260 ft on Sunningdale and 150 ft frontage on Lochmoor. Image of Mr. Bird Courtesy of: Detroit Free Press (June 1938).











22 Sunningdale was featured in an article in the Detroit Free Press in 1928 which was explaining the benefits of having Masonite Structural Insulation used in a home - “To enjoy this same enduring comfort-uniform warmth in winter, cool rooms in summer—all you need do is to specify Masonite Structural Insulation.” Image courtesy of: Detroit Free Press (January 1928).





When the house was listed for sale by Mr. Bird in 1932, the interior featured a large foyer with circular stairs, a living room, library, dining room, a butler’s pantry, and service stairs on the main floor. The second floor had four main bedrooms plus two smaller bedrooms for maids over the garage. In the basement was a recreation room. The nearly 1-acre lot included a 3-car garage, and a surrounding brick wall. Our files state the casement windows and outside steel doors were made by the Hope Co. of England.





It appears the original owner Mr. Bird moved to 106 Lochmoor and in May 1932, 22 Sunningdale was purchased by John Lord Booth. In the spring of 1939, Mr. Booth had listed the property for sale for $60,000 (around $1.4m today). It is stated in our files that prior to listing the property Mr. Booth had put in $1,600 worth of trees (around $39,000 today). By this point Mr. Booth had commissioned Frank Miles to design a stunning new home for him and his family – 226 Provencal, which was completed in 1940.


When Mr. Booth listed 22 Sunningdale for sale he stated the chandelier and the wallpaper were to be removed from the dining room and replaced with something else.  Mr. Booth had expensive taste when it came to wallpaper in dining rooms. In his new home on Provencial the walls in the dining room were covered in Gracie Wallpaper (one-of-a-kind wallpaper by the Gracie Company) that was not your standard wallpaper, but a covering of silk, hand painted by artists. Which begs the question, did he have Gracie wallpaper in the dining room at 22 Sunningdale too? Read the full story about Gracie Wallpaper here.


John Lord Booth was the son of Ralph Harmon Booth, president of Booth newspapers and a major arts patron in Detroit. Ralph Booth resided at one of Grosse Pointe’s most stunning, and largest, residences 315 Washington – built in 1923. John Booth was born in Detroit in 1907, having graduated from Yale, in 1928, he became the private secretary to the American ambassador to Denmark, in 1930. He then held the position of vice president, and treasurer at the Ralph H. Booth Corporation (1931-1938). Post 1939 he was the founder, owner and chairman of numerous broadcasting companies throughout Michigan and the United States, during this era.


22 Sunningdale was sold in May 1944 and was purchased for $37,000 by Burdette E. Ford. Future owners included the vice president for Hiram Walker, Mr. Van Lockern, and Roberta Wallrich.


509 University Place – 1927 - Created in an English architectural style.





862 Westchester - 1928


This center entrance Colonial was designed by Roland Tempest for Leon Bastendorf. Image courtesy of: Realtor.com





It is clear Roland Tempest was a skilled architect who created at least three distinctive homes in Grosse Pointe. In presenting the work of these unsung builders and designers who worked in Grosse Pointe during the first half of the 20th century, it ensures the less prominent, yet equally stunning homes, have a chance to showcase their stories. And in some way every home in Grosse Pointe has an interesting story to tell.


A big thank you to Roberta Wallrich, former owner of 22 Sunningdale, who wrote to us seeking information about her former home.



* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 07:32:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe---george-lothrop-and-theadore-hall.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe---george-lothrop-and-theadore-hall.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe - George Lothrop and Theadore Hall</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we presented the story of Commander Alexander Grant – a British Naval officer serving on the Great Lakes – who moved to Grosse Pointe around 1774. He became the earliest prominent settler and constructed the area's first large permanent residence – “Grants Castle”.


As part of the post, we mentioned two historical figures, Geroge Lothrop and Theadore Hall. Lothrop built a summer cottage, known as “Summerside” on part of the land owned by Alexander Grant, while Theadore Hall purchased “Grants Castle” around 1875, razed it and set about building his own majestic estate, Tonnancour. So, this week we are going to delve deeper into the lives of these two significant men who played a large part in shaping Grosse Pointe into the community we know today.


George Van Ness Lothrop served as the seventh Michigan Attorney General from 1848 until 1851 and was the US ambassador to Russia. He was born on 8 August 1817 in Connecticut. Having graduated from Brown University he then started law school at Harvard but didn’t finish due to ill health. It is understood “he moved to live on his brother’s farm in Prairie Ronde, Michigan to recover before moving to Detroit in 1843 to finish his law studies. He married Almira Strong in 1847. Image courtesy of Wikipedia.





“Mr. Lothrop was impressed with the beauty of The Pointes soon after his arrival in Detroit and purchased 130 acres in 1850. The estate, 215 Lake Shore “Summerside”, was completed that same year as a summer cottage - which originally stood at the northeast corner of Alexander Grant’s property. Source: Grosse Pointe on Lake Sainte Claire, published by Silas Farmer &amp; Co. (1886). The publication goes onto explain “the Lothrop family spent each successive summer at Summerside until Lothrop had to relocate to Russia in 1885 for his job as US Ambassador. He stated, “with many sighs and regrets, I exchanged Grosse Pointe for a sojourn on the banks of the Neva (St. Petersburg, Russia).” Image courtesy of GP Historical Society and Burton Historical Collection.








A further extract in the publication explains “Lothrop’s intimate friend, Edmund A. Brush, had located in Grosse Pointe shortly before him, and for several years, they were the only colonists. Both raised large families and lived in rural simplicity compared with present-day customs. Whether an approach to fashionable life brought increased pleasure to the colonists at the Pointe, the older residents much do question. If a well spent life entitles any man to enjoyment and peace in his later years, it is certainly due to the owner of &quot;Summerside.&quot; Source: Grosse Pointe on Lake Sainte Claire, published by Silas Farmer &amp; Co. (1886).


George Lothrop passed on July 12, 1897, in Detroit. His stunning residence “Summerside” was then owned and occupied by James Moran. It is not known when the property was demolished. Today, a Michigan historical marker is located on Charlevoix Avenue, which commemorates a stand of pine trees that Mr. Lothrop planted on the site in 1878. It is reported “these trees became the &quot;feeder stock&quot; for many of the pine groves that are now widespread in the eastern suburbs of Detroit. Across from the pine plantation is Lothrop Road, named in his honor.”


Theodore Parsons Hall was a key figure in the development of Grosse Pointe. With limited and somewhat conflicting details, it appears he purchased “Grants Castle” around 1875, when fifty acres of the farm, belonging to Commodore Grants family (Grant passed on 8 May 1813), was purchased by Hall from one of Grants descendants - presumably Grants last surviving daughter Jane, who died in April 1875. Following Mr. Halls purchase it is understood the “castle” was razed and the land subdivided. It is reported Mr. Hall used an old walnut staircase, mantelpiece and doors from the original structure for his new residence called &quot;Tonnancour&quot; Source: Heritage Magazine (February 1986).


Tonnancour was built in 1880. The property consisted of sixty-three acres which ran 2 ½ miles inland from Lake St. Clair. About fifteen acres were devoted to lawn and garden, twenty-five to pasture, and the remainder to natural forest. Theodore Hall set about building an elaborate estate called “Tonnancour”. This included an elegant summer residence – a wooden Victorian Swiss Chalet style mansion and a boat house – both of which were designed by influential Detroit architect Mortimer L. Smith.  Images courtesy of Detroit Public Library and GP Historical Society.











The publication Grosse Pointe on Lake Sainte Claire, published by Silas Farmer &amp; Co. (1886) explains “the very old orchard on the ridge back of the house contained trees dating back to 1815. In the front portion many select varieties of ornamental trees were planted, a willow of enormous size stood just above the house and near the road. On the lake side was a spacious boathouse built in Swiss style of architecture. A fine beach was rescued from the lake, and on it stood a rustic grotto enshrining a statue of Notre Dame deSainte Claire, commemorating an old tradition described in the &quot;Legends of Detroit.&quot; It is understood “the family spent subsequent summers developing the estate and each year dancing parties, theatricals and other evening amusements took place. During the winter months, the Hall family resided in Detroit sometimes at the Hotel Cadillac or at their home on Jefferson Avenue.” As the years went by it is acknowledged the family spent winters in Florida or on the Pacific coast. Source: Thomas W. Brunk. 


Theodore Parsons Hall was a commodities broker and grain merchant. He was born in Connecticut on 15 December 1835. He graduated from Yale in 1856, and came to Detroit from Wall Street, New York, to work as a cashier at the old State Bank of Michigan. He married, Alexandrine Louise Godfory in 1860. Ms. Godfroy was daughter of Pierre Godfroy, and granddaughter of Col. Gabriel Godfroy, whose father was one of the founders of Detroit. Image courtesy of: Findagrave.com.





On 3 January 1909, Theodore Parsons Hall passed away, survived by his wife, Alexandrine, and three children. Around five years later their beautiful Victorian home burned down. Following the fire Alexandrine moved to a residence in Detroit while her new home, 383 Lakeshore was completed. During this time the Hall estate was sub divided. A section of the land became part of the Country Club’s golf course, while each of Hall’s three children (Josephine, Nathalie and Marie) built homes on the lake front sections of the property. Source: Thomas W. Brunk, courtesy of the Grosse Pointe Historical Society. 


George Lothrop and Theadore Hall were two key figures in the history and growth of Grosse Pointe. Without them the community we know today might have been quite different.


* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 
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    <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 07:26:00 -0500</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--grants-castle.html</guid>
    <link>https://www.higbiemaxon.com/blog/historical-architecture-of-grosse-pointe--grants-castle.html</link>
        <author>kay@higbiemaxon.com (Kay Agney)</author>
        <title>Historical Architecture of Grosse Pointe – Grants Castle</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Last week we featured a prominent, yet unsung builder in Detroit by the name of Emil Schultz. During a career that spanned four decades Schultz built some fine homes in Grosse Pointe in conjunction with noted architects. This included his own home - 719 Berkshire.


This week we travel back to 1776, a very important time in the history of our nation. This historic milestone is something everyone in the country is proud of. So, what was happening in Grosse Pointe at this time?


According to the Detroit Historical Society, “in 1776, Detroit was a fortified, British-controlled fur-trading outpost. While the Thirteen Colonies declared independence, Detroit remained under British rule and served as a strategic base for British forces and their Indigenous allies to launch raids into the Ohio Country.” It has been acknowledged British control brought many settlers to the area, including a renowned individual named Alexander Grant – a British Naval Commander of the Great Lakes – who ultimately decided to build a home in Grosse Pointe around 1774-1776. His arrival ensured that he not only became the first prominent settler, but he also constructed the first large permanent residence – “Grants Castle”, located on what is now Lake Shore and Moran in Grosse Pointe Farms.


Commander Alexander Grant was born in Scotland on 20 May 1734. Research states “he was educated by the Navy of Great Britain, but after serving three years he resigned and enlisted as ensign in Montgomery’s Highland Regiment which was being organized for service in America. In 1763, he succeeded to the command of the Naval establishment on all the lakes. Although his military title was that of Captain, he was known as Commodore Grant. After the surrender of Montreal and Quebec to the English he was ordered to lakes Erie and Ontario.”Source: Frank Aubry, Field Writer (1936). Image courtesy of: WikiTree





During his career, not only was he a high-ranking naval officer, but he also was briefly involved in the ship building industry, before becoming a prominent politician, in 1805, as the Administrator of the Government of the Province of Upper Canada. 1774, he was 40 years old when he married a young 16 year-old French Catholic girl, Therese Barthe. It is alleged she could not speak English or him French, but the couple had 12 children together (11 daughters and 1 son). Sadly, three of the daughters died at an early age.


The couple settled in Grosse Pointe after Grant purchased a 639-acre farm to build a property known as &quot;Grant's Castle&quot; - completed in 1775/76.Located on Lake Shore and the corner of what is now Moran Road, it allegedly had a frontage of nine acres on the Lake and a depth of seventy-one acres. The property was said to have had fine gardens and orchards. It is understood the farm is also significant as “embracing the first &quot;cleared&quot; land in Grosse Pointe.” It is understood the property originally extended from the present St. Paul on the Lake Catholic Church to the grounds of the former George V. N Lothrop estate – 215 Lake Shore, built by George Lothrop in 1847 - which originally stood at the northeast corner of Grant’s farm.


Prior to purchasing the land, Commander Grant, “in aspiring to find a seigneury similar to the old French claims on the St. Lawrence, selected the tract of land, and during the winter, when the lakes were frozen, he employed his sailors and soldiers in clearing of the forest trees. The house was built of hewn oaken timbers taken from the trees in the surrounding forest that had been cut down. These were neatly dovetailed at the corners, and the interstices between the logs carefully filled with plaster. It was about 160 feet long, two stories in height, and surrounded, on all sides by huge two-story verandas or &quot;galleries,&quot; as the French termed them, and, in shape, resembled a great barrack.” It is alleged the large house was the location of much entertaining and lavish parties, some of which were supposedly to introduce his beautiful daughters to society. It has also been suggested that many people regard Alexander Grant as the founder of the Grosse Pointes. Source: Grosse Pointe on Lake Sainte Claire, published by Silas Farmer &amp; Co. (1886). Image courtesy of: GP Historical Society





Several years later, it is understood “President Madison signed the land patent giving Alexander Grant the title to his Grosse Pointe Farms estate only one day before the declaration of war with Great Britain on June 18th, 1812.” Commodore Alexander Grant resided at his “castle” until his death on 8 May 1813 (his wife had passed in the spring of 1811). “Three days later he was buried in St. Johns Churchyard in Sandwich, Ontario. On the wall of the church may be seen a tablet, erected by one of his grandsons, as a tribute to his memory. The accounts of his estate may also still be seen. It recited that fifteen shillings were paid to three men for going to Grosse Pointe in a canoe to collect Grant’s corpse.” Source: Frank Aubry, Field Writer (1936)


Alexander Grant’s estate was divided equally among his children (the last of whom, Jane, died in April 1875). It is understood &quot;Grant's Castle&quot; and part of the property on which It was situated, were then purchased in 1825 by Louis Moran, Sr., who deeded the property to his son George and his daughter, Monique Campau. With limited and somewhat conflicting details, it appears the “castle” was purchased by Theodore Parsons Hall, around 1875. It is understood the house was razed around this time, and the land subdivided. It is reported Mr. Hall used an old walnut staircase, mantelpiece and doors from the original structure for his new mansion called &quot;Tonnancour&quot; (completed in 1880). Source: Heritage Magazine (February 1986).


Parts of the original Grant property became the location of Grosse Pointe Academy, the unfinished John Dodge mansion (223 Lake Shore – started in 1918 and razed in 1941), while the rest of the estate was eventually filled with many fine residential properties we know today.



* Photos courtesy of the Higbie Maxon Agney archives unless stated.


** Research, information, and data sources are deemed reliable, but accuracy cannot be fully guaranteed.


 


Written by Katie DoelleCopyright © 2026 Higbie Maxon Agney &amp; Katie Doelle 

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    <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:51:00 -0500</pubDate>
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