Grand Rapids may be the second largest city in the State of Michigan, but it is a far cry from a thriving metropolis. Nonetheless, over the last several years a distinctive skyline has emerged. Though the shiny glass exteriors of its newer buildings are impressive, the city’s original construction is what I find most fascinating. I am no longer downtown on a daily basis, but a recent meeting in the heart of the city afforded me an opportunity to revisit one of its architectural gems.
The Ledyard Building is one of the finest examples of high Victorian Italianate commercial architecture remaining in the state. In 1874, downtown developer William Ledyard erected the building that bears his name at the corner of Pearl Street and Ottawa Avenue. The four-story structure was constructed from pale yellow brick trimmed with brown sandstone; the windows on the top three floors are decorated with molded caps adorned with sculptural keystones. One of the building’s most unique features is its interior atrium, which extends from the second floor to the skylight in the roof. Original tenants included the Grand Rapids Public Library and YMCA. Legend also has it that the Ledyard Building once housed a bordello which served the lumber barons and wealthy businessmen in West Michigan!
I wish I would have had more time to explore, but definitely plan to return for a walking tour of the area to rediscover Grand Rapids' other historical treasures.
1 comment:
Why do they have to ruin the things that work in this town? I mean a bordello would be great and keep young girls off the street.
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