Hour Detroit Magazine

WHEN THE FIRST ISSUE of Hour Detroit hit newsstands in May 1996, the city was far from what would later be called its comeback, revival, or renaissance — but the seeds were already being planted. That same month, General Motors purchased the Renaissance Center, signaling renewed corporate interest in downtown. In November, voters approved Proposal E, paving the way for three Detroit casinos, and Proposal S, a Wayne County tax increase to fund two new downtown stadiums: Comerica Park and Ford Field. Thirty years later, GM has moved its headquarters but remains fi rmly rooted downtown at Hudson’s Detroit. The homes of the Tigers and Lions have proven to be a resounding success. And per the 2023 census, the city’s population grew for the fi rst time since 1957 — or, in other words, the year the Lions won their last championship title to date. Over the past 30 years, Hour Detroit has delivered far more than headlines. We’ve brought metro Detroiters in-depth, up-close stories about the people, businesses, and organizations shaping the region — from CEOs at the top of the corporate ladder to everyday people in the city and suburbs. To give you a glimpse of that journey, we’ve gathered all 350 of our covers — along with quotes from some cover subjects — on the following pages. — Kate Walsh