by Rebecca Binno
The Elwood Bar and Grill, Detroit’s most recognizable Art Deco restaurant, had its future hanging in the balance. The Elwood (1937) was in the way of the new Detroit Tigers and Lions stadia. Then owner Chuck Forbes asked the Detroit/ Wayne County Stadium Authority for an extension on the deadline for demolition so he could move the building. They said yes—and Chuck Forbes is spending his money to move the Elwood. We have Chuck Forbes to thank for saving the Elwood twice—once in 1989, and again this year. Work has begun on excavation of the basement, and it looks like the move is a reality.The new site for the Elwood is right behind the new site for the Gem Theater. Look for it on the southwest corner of Adams and Brush. The National Register listed Elwood being saved, and it almost didn't happen. Detroit is truly fortunate to have private property owners who care about the city’s historic architecture. The Detroit Area Art Deco Society wants your opinion on how to contribute to this historic move. Should we sponsor the restoration of the neon? Should we sponsor restoration of the interior? Certainly we will have an event at the Elwood once it is operating, but we should consider a more permanent way to commemorate this historic move of Detroit’s most significant Deco Bar & Grill.
Watch this web site for the latest news on the Elwood and its future plans. Each month we will continue to publish an update on the progress of the move, details of its reopening and our plans as things unfold.
