Detroit's Belle Isle: Island Park Gem

Images of America: Michigan

by Michael Rodriguez, Thomas Featherstone

One of the most unique urban parks in the world, Belle Isle has long been a source of civic pride in Detroit. In 1879, just as its population, land area, and industry were flourishing, the city of Detroit purchased this 700-acre island for use as a park. Famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted was soon commissioned to transform the island into an idyllic retreat from the industrial city. This book uses remarkable images drawn from the Walter P. Reuther Library to document Belle Isle's distinctive history. Throughout the city's periods of accomplishment, economic flux, and social turmoil, Belle Isle is revealed as a romantic haven where Detroit's many cultures came together to relax, celebrate, and play.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

128 pages, Paperback

First published March 5, 2003

Reviews

[Fang Jing · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would have loved to see more about the Belle Isle Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Center, as they are such key attractions on the island. Currently, there are only about three photos of them combined.

[Jeffry · Rating 4 out of 5]

The early history in particular is interesting. Otherwise, the book is more of a photo history which is enjoyable in and of itself.

[Vicki Champlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

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[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not just a book about a park. It's about the history of the city and the amazing citizens who hand dug the canals, the architects, engineers and crafts people who left such an amazing legacy.

[Alyse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting information and great old pictures. I just wish there was more on "current" Belle Isle!