Historic Detroit

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

Children's Free Hospital

The Children's Hospital of Michigan is one of metro Detroit's most beloved children's organizations. This stunning 1896 building -- designed by the firm Nettleton, Kahn & Trowbridge -- was once its home.

As advances in medical care made the 19th-century structure outdated, a new annex was built, and then a replacement. The hospital underwent a series of renovations inside and out, in 1960, 1962, 1963 and 1965. But just a few years later, it was decided to pull the plug rather than another building permit.

A demolition permit for the hospital was issued April 28, 1971. Bethel Nonprofit Housing was issued a building permit for the site on March 18, 1974, and a housing development sits on the site today.