Welcome to Ypsilanti, a city where the echoes of history blend seamlessly with the vibrant pulse of today. Situated along the Huron River in Washtenaw County, Michigan, this city holds a unique place in American history. Ypsilanti’s story begins with its founding in 1823 as Woodruff’s Grove, named after Major Thomas Woodruff, who established a permanent settlement. However, its name changed in 1829 to honor Demetrios Ypsilantis, a hero of the Greek War of Independence, marking the city’s global connections from the outset.
As you explore Ypsilanti, consider its pivotal role in the automotive industry. In the early 20th century, Apex Motors produced the ‘ACE’ car here, and Preston Tucker’s innovative Tucker ’48 was conceived in this very town. The legacy of the automobile industry is preserved at the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum, a must-visit for any car enthusiast.
Ypsilanti also played a significant role during World War II with the Willow Run Bomber Plant, which churned out over 8,500 B-24 Liberator bombers, bolstering the Allied forces. This plant, initially a youth camp founded by Henry Ford, illustrates the city’s adaptability and industrial prowess.
Education and culture are cornerstones of Ypsilanti’s identity, with Eastern Michigan University calling this city home since 1849. As Michigan’s first normal school, it became a beacon for educational progress. The city’s cultural tapestry is enriched by community events, historic districts, and annual festivals like the Ypsilanti Heritage Festival.
Walk through Depot Town, and you’ll step back in time, with historic buildings that whisper tales of the Civil War and the Underground Railroad. The Thompson Block Building, once a Civil War barracks, now buzzes with life as a restaurant, merging past and present.
Ypsilanti’s story is not just in its structures but also in its people. From the abolitionist efforts of the Harwood family to the entrepreneurial spirit of Domino’s Pizza founder Tom Monaghan, the city is a testament to innovation and resilience.
