More Detroit automotive history...I was so worried that the Packard plant would be gone completely before I get to see it but I was lucky enough to witness this complex in person...there are no words really...one has to see it in person to realize the proportions. I wish there would be a time machine and I could walk into the factory showroom. I had to fight myself not to go in but being alone and leaving the truck unattended as well it wasn't an option...the people you might meet isn't the only concern either, there is so much loose stuff hanging in the air as well as floors and stairs that might collapse it is scary. The building is going down fast with scavengers taking their toll every day. As luck would have it, I was able to see pieces of this once fantastic structure later on...sorry about not having better pics but there was some nasty onlooks while on site and I couldn't concentrate on the pics too much
I now have a few bricks saved from it too, I didn't feel bad about it since this thing will unfortunately be gone. A part in the northern end is in good shape though, to my understanding that was added during WW2 to make the Packard improved version of the Rolls-Royce engines. It is sad that the city officials got all the tenants (except one that refused to leave) evicted, that marked the end of this beautiful Kahn masterpiece.
http://www.detroityes.com/mb/showthread.php?9631-Couple-of-Packard-Plant-Questionshttp://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/galle...0803&Ref=PHhttp://onlyndetroit.com/html/decay/ond-0012motorcityunderworld.htm
This used to be the other of the two main entrances, now gutted, old pic a bit below, the factory showroom was on the right, colored glass added later after Packard left;
A bit of contrast, 1935 Packard 120:s awaiting shipment at the factory;
The parking garage in the 40:s;
Assembly line 1953;
Factory showroom 1954;
View outside the showroom on Grand Boulevard in 1955...luckily those entrances have been saved..pics later...
