Wyandotte in Wayne County, Michigan — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)

Melody Brothers Building

The Museum in the Streets

Photographed by J.T. Lambrou, November 10, 2021

1. Melody Brothers Building Marker

Inscription.

In 1895, brothers James, John and George Melody built this two story double storefront building and opened one of the first department stores in the region. Spacious and elegant, with oak floors and tin ceilings, it stocked the latest fashions and home furnishings.

During World War II, Melody's was able to sell silk stockings, a scarce commodity when silk was needed for parachutes. When a supply of hosiery arrived, long lines formed before the doors opened.

James Melody's daughter, Cecilia Melody Mix, and descendants continued to operate a retail store in this building, and later across the street, into the 21st century.

The façade of this building has changed somewhat, but still presents a handsome look. The word “Melody” and the date "1895” are embedded in the brickwork above.

Erected by The Wyandotte Historical Society. (Marker Number 5.)

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1895.

Location. 42° 12.165′ N, 83° 8.976′ W. Marker is in Wyandotte, Michigan, in Wayne County. It is on Biddle Avenue near Elm Street, on the right when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 3030 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte MI 48192, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in Southeast Michigan

and in Greater Detroit.

It is also in the American Midwest

and on the Great Lakes.

Globally, it is in North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Viceroyalty of New France

and also the Northwest Territory.

Other nearby markers.

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At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: First Fire Station (within shouting distance of this marker); The Triangular Corner (within shouting distance of this marker); Kelly's First Tilting Bessemer Steel Converter (within shouting distance of this marker); Eureka Iron Works & Wyandotte Savings Bank (within shouting distance of this marker); Thomas Drug Store (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Neisner's Dime Store (about 400 feet away); Milkins Jewelers (about 500 feet away); America's First Bessemer Steel Mill (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Wyandotte.

More about this marker. This is the 5th marker in a series of 16 on the historical walking tour of Wyandotte.

Photographed by J.T. Lambrou, November 10, 2021

2. Melody Brothers Building Marker

The store is currently the Belicoso Cafe Martini & Wine Cigar Bar.

Melody Brothers Building Detail image. Click for full size.

Photographed by J.T. Lambrou, November 10, 2021

3. Melody Brothers Building Detail

"Melody" and "1895” are embedded in the brickwork.

The Museum in the Streets Walking Tour Panel image. Click for full size.

Photographed by J.T. Lambrou, November 10, 2021

4. The Museum in the Streets Walking Tour Panel

Credits. This page was last revised on January 6, 2022. It was originally submitted on January 1, 2022, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. This page has been viewed 871 times since then and 49 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on January 1, 2022, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.