Gazing at the Whittier Towers, has anyone ever considered how a building could embody both elegance and resilience? This towering structure before us, the Whittier Towers, whispers tales of Detroit’s vibrant past. The Whittier Towers stand as a testament to a bygone era of luxury and grandeur. It has seen Detroit rise, fall, and rise again.
Originally known as the Whittier Hotel or Whittier Apartments, this architectural marvel opened its doors in phases. The eight-story northern building welcomed guests in 1922, followed by the majestic fifteen-story tower in 1926. Designed by Charles N. Agree, the complex showcases a unique blend of architectural styles. The northern building boasts a classic red brick facade with smooth stone accents, while the southern tower exudes Italian Renaissance charm with buff brick and terra cotta ornamentation.
The Whittier quickly became a haven for the elite, attracting notable figures like Horace Dodge, Eleanor Roosevelt, Mae West, Frank Sinatra, and even The Beatles. But its location on the Detroit River also made it a hub for underworld activities during Prohibition. Its proximity to Canada facilitated the smuggling of alcohol, attracting figures like the notorious Purple Gang.
The Whittier’s history is filled with intriguing anecdotes. During the 1931 Harmsworth Race, the hotel became the epicenter of excitement as crowds flocked to witness the thrilling powerboat competition on the Detroit River. In 1959, Room 1070 witnessed an unlikely meeting between George W. Romney, president of American Motors, and Walter P. Reuther, president of the United Auto Workers, bridging a two-decade rivalry. The hotel even played a role in Alfred Hitchcock’s film “North By Northwest.”
Despite its glamorous past, the Whittier Towers faced financial woes and closed as a hotel in 2001, becoming a senior apartment tower. The story of Lucille Henry, a resident forced to relocate multiple times due to closures, reflects the challenges faced by many elderly residents. Though the eight-story section was renovated and reopened as senior housing in 2009, the future of the iconic fifteen-story tower remains uncertain.
The Whittier Towers stand as a poignant reminder of Detroit’s ever-changing landscape. A symbol of resilience, the building has weathered economic downturns and urban transformations. As we stand before it today, we can appreciate its architectural beauty and the echoes of its storied past. It’s a testament to a city that refuses to be defined by its struggles and continues to strive for revitalization.