In 1853, Rudolph Wurlitzer immigrated to the United States. While his family began dealing in musical instruments in 1659 in Europe, he founded the Rudolph Wurlitzer Co. in 1856. During the silent film era, Wurlitzer began pumping out huge chamber organs to provide the soundtrack for movies and to entertain patrons before screenings. To house his thriving business, he built the 14-story Wurlitzer building, which is now home to The Siren Hotel.
Just as The Siren Hotel’s history is intertwined with music, so is Detroit’s own. Discover some of Motown’s other music venues during a stay in Detroit:
Detroit Opera House
Right across the street from The Siren is the Capitol Theatre, now the Detroit Opera House. In its opening year, it was the fifth-largest theater in the world, built as a true “film palace.” This Italian Renaissance-style venue features large crystal chandeliers, a grand staircase, plush carpeting, murals, and original oil paintings. To this day, it remains a vibrant and active venue.
Fox Theater
Originally billed as “the most magnificent Temple of Amusement in the World” when it opened in 1928, the Fox boasts a Wurlitzer pipe organ with 36 ranks. As the first in the world to have escalators and elevators for patrons, the Fox Theatre also had custom built-in equipment for presenting talking movies.
The Fisher Theater
Albert Kahn’s masterpiece The Fisher opened in 1928. Detroit’s skyline is dominated by its golden tower. Built by the Fisher brothers, it was constructed with more than 40 kinds of marble from around the world.
Michigan Theater
Detroit’s Michigan Theater was once one of the most elegant music halls before it became a car park. Designed in the French Renaissance style, the 4,038-seat Michigan Theatre opened in 1925. One of its most elaborate features is the 1,000-square-foot Grande Lobby with its black-and-white checkered floor. After being gutted and converted into a parking lot in the 1970s, the entire building is still a sight to behold.
To learn more visit thesirenhotel.com or find us on social @thesirenhotel. Book the ABC rate code with chain code DTW. Limited Time offer. 10% off BAR, 15% commission. Valid Until Booking Dates Prior to 5/31.
