Dearborn in Wayne County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
U. S. Arsenal - - - Armory
1833 - 1875
Photographed By Joel Seewald, May 3, 2019
1. U. S. Arsenal - - - Armory Marker
On this site stood the armory, the largest of the eleven buildings of the Detroit Arsenal. This structure served as a storehouse for ord nance [sic] equipment and quartermaster supplies, and as a social center for military and community events.
About 1877 this building became a civic center called "Liberty Hall." Activities such as dancing, roller skating, dramatic plays, lodge meetings, and other functions made this former military installation valuable.
Private individuals purchased the armory in 1892 and 1896. Sold again in 1902, the building became the Arna Mills, manufacturers of garments and robes. This three story, 120 foot long brick structure was destroyed by a spectacular fire lasting twenty-one days in 1910.
In the summer of 1984, the Dearborn Historical Museum excavated a portion of the foundation of the Armory and unearthed numerous historical artifacts.
Erected 1966 by Dearborn Historical Commission.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Entertainment • Forts and Castles • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1877.
Location. 42° 18.429′ N, 83° 14.633′ W. Marker is in Dearborn, Michigan, in Wayne County. Marker can be reached
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. A Military Reserve (within shouting distance of this marker); U.S. Arsenal-Sutler's Shop (within shouting distance of this marker); Michigan Soldiers Trained at U.S. Arsenal During Civil War (within shouting distance of this marker); Commandant's Quarters (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); U.S. Arsenal Officers' - Surgeons' Quarters and Barracks 1833 - 1875 (about 300 feet away); U.S. Arsenal 1833 - 1875 (about 400 feet away); Westward Welcome (about 800 feet away); Bryant Branch Library (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Dearborn.
Photographed By Joel Seewald, May 3, 2019
2. Neighboring plaque
The double yellow lines on the parking lot represent the foundation of the armory building mentioned on the adjacent plaque. [The yellow lines are no longer visible.]
Photographed By Joel Seewald, May 3, 2019
3. U. S. Arsenal - - - Armory Marker
Photographed By Joel Seewald, May 3, 2019
4. U. S. Arsenal - - - Armory Marker
Marker is at the far right of the Dearborn Masonic Lodge building.
Photographed By Joel Seewald, May 3, 2019
5. Dearborn Masonic Lodge
Credits. This page was last revised on May 10, 2019. It was originally submitted on May 10, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan. This page has been viewed 227 times since then and 22 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on May 10, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.
