Forgotten Detroit delves into the wellspring of history to retell some
of Detroit's lesser-known stories within the Motor City's rich
heritage.
Detroiters know their history well. Founded in 1701 by Antoine de la
Mothe Cadillac, the city subsisted on a variety of industries: fur
trading, stove building, and, of course, the automobile. Names such as
Henry Ford and Charles Lindbergh resonate in Detroiters' common memory
while Detroit's meteoric rise during the 20th century established the
city as an influential leader in commerce, culture, and religion. This
growth spawned the development of numerous businesses, organizations,
and institutions, many now forgotten after the passing of so many years.
Individuals from the Michigan metropolis, such as Albert Kahn, Mary
Chase Stratton, and Henry Ford II, all made their marks on the history
books, even if the average Detroiter couldn't tell you who they were.