On a crisp autumn day in 1961, three mechanical beasts converged on Michigan Avenue, their metal bodies gleaming under the Detroit sun. Their mission? To dismantle the Majestic Building, making way for a new icon: 1001 Woodward. 1001 Woodward, as it would soon be known, was not just another skyscraper. It represented Detroit’s ambition, a city determined to reinvent itself. The Majestic Building, a beloved landmark, had to be sacrificed for this vision. Mayor Miriani championed the project, seeing it as a symbol of cooperation between the city and businesses. He had promised a new building if Old City Hall was demolished, and 1001 Woodward was the fulfillment of that promise. The demolition was a spectacle. “Big Push,” “Mighty Mo III,” and “Poopsie” were the names of the crane and wrecking ball that tore down the Majestic floor by floor. Detroiters watched, cameras in hand, documenting the bittersweet end of an era. 1001 Woodward, rising from the Majestic’s ashes, was a stark contrast to its predecessor. The old terra cotta was replaced with sleek black granite, a testament to the International Style of architecture. Completed in 1965, the 25-story building was more than just an office space; it was a statement. Its twin towers, joined by a glass-enclosed elevator core, were a symbol of Detroit’s revitalization. The building’s unique design, maximizing the irregularly shaped lot, earned its architects, Smith, Hinchman & Grylls, a prestigious Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects in 1967. 1001 Woodward has witnessed Detroit’s evolution. It housed First Federal Savings and Loan, then became Woodward Plaza, and eventually became home to Quicken Loans and other businesses. Each transformation reflects the city’s dynamic spirit and the building’s enduring presence. Today, 1001 Woodward stands tall, a testament to Detroit’s resilience and its embrace of the future. It is a symbol of a city that dares to dream and rebuild, a city that honors its past while forging ahead.
Saint Andrew’s Hall
So next time you are looking for a night out remember Saint Andrew’s Hall. It is more than a venue.