The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit recently marked its centennial milestone, celebrating 100 years of history, luxury, and cultural significance in downtown Detroit. The milestone was commemorated through a unique collaboration with the Detroit Historical Museum, resulting in a captivating exhibit that pays homage to the hotel’s storied past.
Located adjacent to the hotel’s Starbucks Reserve, the exhibit opened on October 17, 2024, showcasing artifacts and memories that spanned the decades. Among the treasures on display were original keys from the hotel’s opening, vintage staff uniforms, and even a century-old wedding dress from a wedding hosted at the hotel. Visitors were encouraged to contribute their memorabilia, with the museum reaching out to Detroiters to uncover family heirlooms and artifacts tied to the Book Cadillac’s legacy.
The Detroit Historical Museum’s Rebecca Salminen Witt emphasized the significance of the site’s history, noting its roots as a prehistoric animal trail turned thoroughfare on Michigan Avenue. This rich historical narrative underscores the exhibit’s importance, which tells Detroit’s stories through the lens of this iconic hotel. Salminen Witt highlighted how the hotel has served as a backdrop for countless personal milestones, from grand celebrations to intimate family gatherings, adding to its cultural resonance.
The Book Cadillac Hotel opened on December 8, 1924, under the vision of Detroit’s Book brothers—Frank, Herbert, and J. Burgess Jr. Designed by architect Louis Kamper in the Italian Renaissance style, the 33-story, 1,136-guestroom property became the tallest hotel in the world at the time. Dubbed the “Fifth Avenue of the Midwest,” Washington Boulevard gained a landmark that would draw presidents, celebrities, and the everyday traveler alike. Over the years, the hotel hosted luminaries such as Presidents Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Biden and cultural icons like Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Babe Ruth, Frank Sinatra, and Lady Bird Johnson. Its grandeur extended to the silver screen, making its cinematic debut in Frank Capra’s State of the Union in 1947.
However, the hotel’s journey was not without challenges. By the 1980s, the Book Cadillac fell into disrepair, closing its doors in 1984 and narrowly escaping demolition in 1993. The turning point came in 2006 when The Ferchill Group acquired the property and spearheaded a $200 million redevelopment. Partnering with Starwood Hotels & Resorts, the revitalized Westin Book Cadillac reopened in 2008, featuring 453 luxury hotel rooms and 65 high-end condominiums. The restoration is credited as a catalyst for Detroit’s revitalization, paving the way for downtown’s resurgence as a hub for business, residential living, and entertainment.
In December 2023, the property underwent a $23 million renovation under its new ownership, Oxford Capital Group and Oxford Hotels and Resorts. The renovations included a contemporary refresh of all 453 guestrooms, 36,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space, and the public areas, reflecting the property’s dedication to maintaining its historic elegance while embracing modern design. The reopening of Sullivan’s Steakhouse and the forthcoming Haus of Brunch added further appeal to the hotel’s culinary offerings.
For General Manager Debra Schultz, the centennial celebration and exhibit represent more than just a nod to the past; they signify a bright future for the hotel and Detroit. Reflecting on the Westin Book Cadillac’s role in hosting high-profile events like the 2024 NFL Draft, which drew over 775,000 fans to the city, Schultz celebrated the hotel’s contributions to Detroit’s dynamic evolution. “This most significant anniversary year is the beginning of a dynamic and exciting new chapter for the hotel and Detroit,” echoed John W. Rutledge, CEO of Oxford Capital Group.
From its humble beginnings as Blindbury’s Hotel in 1852, through its transformation into the Cadillac Hotel in 1888, and finally its rebirth as the Westin Book Cadillac, the site has been a cornerstone of Detroit’s history. As the exhibit continues to share past stories, the Westin Book Cadillac stands as a testament to resilience, community, and the enduring allure of Detroit.
Video credits:
Pastry chef – Bella e Dolce Cakes
Content creator – Meg Goodman
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