Tucked away along 8 Mile and Woodward Avenue is the delightful city of Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan. This special enclave, located just 12 miles north of Detroit’s crossroads, traces its origins to French settlers who remarked on the “broad, flat pointe” at Water’s Edge near Belle Isle. Throughout its history, this vibrant community has risen in stature, transforming from a woodsy wilderness to an affluent upper-middle-class township. Since its incorporation in 1950, Grosse Pointe Woods has continuously sought to honor its past while embracing its future, striving for balance between old and new as it continues to evolve.
Exploring Detroit’s Iconic Crossroads
The iconic crossroads of Detroit have seen a multitude of people and communities pass through them, each leaving behind their stories, cultures, and histories for all to admire. From North to South, East to West, these two world-renowned roads are a testament to the amazing connection between them and the city of Detroit. It is now time to take a drive through the towns that line these roads and explore what makes them so special.
History of Grosse Pointe Woods
Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan is a historic area that can be found 12 miles from Woodward Avenue and 8 Mile Road. It is the largest of the five Grosse Pointe communities: Grosse Pointe, G.P. Farms, Shores, Park, and Woods. M-102, otherwise known as 8 Mile or Baseline, changes to Vernier Road in this area, however, 8 Mile continues as a residential street and county line. The area is believed to have gotten its name from French settlers who referred to the broad, flat point near Windmill Pointe at the water’s edge near Belle Isle. This beautiful and vibrant city is something to be proud of!
Grosse Pointe Woods is a testament to the perseverance of its people, having been claimed by Native Americans, French, British, and the United States of America before finally being incorporated as part of the Northwest Territories of the Thirteen United States Of America in 1846. What was once a place inhabited by people from many walks of life has now become an upper-middle-class and affluent Detroit area community. From 1850 to 1900, lumbermen felled the woods, and wealthy Detroit businessmen took away the lakefront to shape what we see today. In 1939, the village changed its name from Lochmoor to Grosse Pointe Woods, and it wasn’t until 1950 that it finally incorporated as a city.
Despite the Grosse Pointe Shores separating it from the shoreline of Lake St Clair, Grosse Pointe Woods is proud to be a part of an international lakefront border with Canada through its park in neighboring St. Clair Shores.
Taste the World-Renowned 8-Mile Blend
Experience the world-renowned 8-Mile Blend today and taste why it’s so highly praised!
Today, the iconic intersection of 8 Mile and Woodward Avenue serves as a great reminder to all passing through that Detroit is not only filled with a rich history but also communities of flourishing diversity. Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan serves as a prime example of the evolution this crossroads has faced. From French settlers, Native Americans, the British, and now the affluent of Detroit, this vibrant city stands tall amidst the transition of cultures and religions. With its beautiful landscapes, diverse population, and amazing traditions, it is fitting that the roads of 8 Mile Road and Woodward meet at such an amazing place!
