Historic Detroit

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

Benjamin Siegel House

Designed by Albert Kahn for Benjamin Siegel and built between 1913-1914.

Siegel, originally from Germany, immigrated to the United States at age 16 in 1876 and settled in Detroit five years later. Initially, he managed a women’s apparel department at a store on Woodward Avenue. Over time, he acquired the shop and rebranded it as the B. Siegel Company. By 1904, Siegel was renowned for selling upscale women’s and children’s clothing and furs to the silk stocking trade.

In the aftermath of World War II, the metropolitan area boasted at least seven B. Siegel stores. However, following Siegel's passing in 1936, the company continued to operate until it eventually filed for bankruptcy in 1981.

Last updated 27/03/2024