Packard Plant: History and Building Guide

[Packman41]

There have been a number of threads on this website asking about the history of the Packard Plant on East Grand Boulevard. People have asked what was made in this or that part of the factory.

Now you can have the answers to your questions. The Winter 2009 edition of The Packard Cormorant [[published by the Packard Automobile Club) was devoted to “the Rise and Fall of 1580 East Grand Boulevard." This 42 page, glossy magazine details the complete history of the Packard Plant. It is full of stories and “then and now” photos comparing what it looked like back in the day and how it now appears.

One of the best features is 4-page spread with a map and building directory that shows every function in each section of the building in 1949. There is also an abbreviated directory showing how the building was used before WWII.

If you want this limited production magazine, it can be purchased for $15 at the Packard Proving Grounds during the PPG Fall Open House this Sunday, October 16. The PPG is located at 49965 Van Dyke Ave. Shelby Township. It is on the west side of Van Dyke, between 22 Mile Road and 23 Mile Road.

This is our last free event at the PPG this year, so if you miss this weekend our next free event will not be until April 2012 - six months away. So get out this weekend.

For more information on the PPG Fall Open House click here: http://www.detroityes.com/mb/showthread.php?11480-Packard-Proving-Grounds-2011-Fall-Open-House

Thanks,