Historic Detroit

Every building in Detroit has a story — we're here to share it

Hilsendegen Block - Historic photos

A detail of the Hilsendegen's iconic cupola taken in 1953, shortly before the building was demolished.

A detail of the Hilsendegen's iconic cupola taken in 1953, shortly before the building was demolished.

The Hilsendegen in the early 1950s

The Hilsendegen in the early 1950s

The Monroe Theatre ticket booth. The theater was located in the Hilsendegen Block.

The Monroe Theatre ticket booth. The theater was located in the Hilsendegen Block.

A photo of the Hilsegeden Block shortly before demolition.

A photo of the Hilsegeden Block shortly before demolition.

An arrow points to the Hilsendegen Block. The building's shape can also be observed.

An arrow points to the Hilsendegen Block. The building's shape can also be observed.

The Hilsendegen Building, on the left, would soon be expanded to occupy the site of the St. John's German Evangelical Church next door. This photo was taken in 1872, shortly after the first phase of the Hilsendegen was built.

The Hilsendegen Building, on the left, would soon be expanded to occupy the site of the St. John's German Evangelical Church next door. This photo was taken in 1872, shortly after the first phase of the Hilsendegen was built.