This birds-eye perspective of one of America’s most iconic cities shows it in a period of significant prosperity, growth, and transformation. It was produced by local lithography and mapmaking company Calvert Lithographing Co which was established in 1863 and would operate for nearly a century. Birdseye perspectives were wildly popular during the late nineteenth century until the 1920s, and their unique style and immediately recognizable aesthetic transport the viewer back in time, creating an indelible bond between the past and present. These were produced to feature prominent civic features, notable buildings, and as promotional material to attract residents and merchants alike.Founded as a French fur trading outpost by the end of the nineteenth century, Detroit had experienced a population boom spurred on by a thriving industrial economy. During the so-called ‘Gilded Age,’ Detroit became known as The Paris of the West, and numerous modern skyscrapers were constructed around the downtown. Detroit's immigrant population also expanded during this time, with eager residents flocking in from Eastern Europe, Ireland, and Germany. These groups established numerous neighborhoods along cultural lines, many of which exist to this day.Detroit would experience another wave of immigration when Henry Ford established his Highland Park Plant. The city became a beacon of modernity with paved streets, and Thomas Edison debuted his incandescent light bulb and illuminated the city with 122 light towers in 1884. As the turn of the century loomed, Detroit had become a symbol of American exceptionalism, prosperity, and opportunity. Our museum quality giclee print comes printed with archival ink on premium heavyweight matte paper. This eye-catching vintage map reproduction print makes the perfect gift for anyone that loves history and imagery.
