Picture this a sprawling oak tree its branches reaching towards the sky. This isn’t just any oak. This is the Royal Oak the namesake of Royal Oak Michigan. Royal Oak a city in Oakland County is a Detroit suburb. It sits about 14 miles north of Detroit’s downtown. In 1819 Territorial Governor Lewis Cass led a surveying expedition. He and his crew stopped for lunch. They found a magnificent oak tree. It reminded Cass of the Royal Oak in England. King Charles II famously hid there after the Battle of Worcester. Cass decided to name the settlement Royal Oak.
Royal Oak wasn’t officially incorporated until 1891 as a village. It became a city in 1921. Its growth mirrored Detroit’s industrial boom. People moved to the suburbs seeking newer housing. They also wanted to escape the rising tensions and riots in Detroit. This is a perfect example of white flight.
The Royal Oak Farmers Market opened in 1925. It started as a truck market. It’s a cooperative venture between the city and Oakland County. The current building dates back to 1927. It sits near the 44th District Court.
Father Charles Coughlin a controversial figure made his mark in Royal Oak. He founded the Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica. It’s a prominent landmark built from limestone. Coughlin initially used the church for religious broadcasts. His broadcasts later turned political. He supported then later opposed President Roosevelt. His anti-Semitic views gained national attention. The government shut down his radio broadcasts during World War II.
Sadly Royal Oak experienced tragedy. In 1991 a postal worker Thomas McIlvane killed five people. He had been fired for insubordination. This incident helped popularize the phrase “going postal”.
Royal Oak’s downtown initially had small shops and businesses. The development of highways shifted business to suburban malls. Since the late 1990s Royal Oak’s downtown has transformed. It’s now a hub for entertainment and nightlife. Many new condos and lofts have increased the downtown population density. Unfortunately the historic Main Art Theater was demolished in 2022.
The city boasts a below-average crime rate. Larceny theft is the most common crime. Only five murders have been reported since 2000. Royal Oak has earned the Tree City USA award every year since 1976. Citizens State Bank has its headquarters in Royal Oak. This makes it the only bank headquartered in the city.
Royal Oak is home to many notable people. Mary Barra CEO of General Motors was born here. Bruce Campbell the actor also hails from Royal Oak. So did Sam Raimi the famous film director. Many others have called Royal Oak home.
Royal Oak’s story is one of growth transformation and resilience. From its humble beginnings under a majestic oak tree to its vibrant present. The city’s rich history and cultural contributions continue to shape its identity. Royal Oak a city where history and modernity intertwine.