In 1832, the rapid growth of Detroit urged the United States military to relocate the Detroit Arsenal– a complex for storing and repairing weapons and munitions–outside of Detroit. It was at this time that the two-story, red-bricked, Commandant’s Quarters, was created.
When it was moved out of Detroit in 1833, a small area on military reserve land was chosen, that was near where the old Sank Trail crossed at the Rouge River. The location that was chosen was strategic, allowing for close proximity to Detroit, as well as to military personnel both to the south and west of the arsenal. The area that was chosen to host the Detroit Arsenal came to be known as Dearbornville, a name that was given to the area in honor of a Revolutionary War Hero, General Henry Dearborn. Surrounded by brick wall and gates, the commandant’s building was one of eleven other buildings that created a compound to be known as the arsenal.
The Detroit Arsenal remained in use for approximately 42 years before it was closed in 1875 due to the western migration of the frontier. While it was in use, the arsenal was home to 19 different commandants and their families. Once the arsenal was no longer needed, it was sold off to private citizens. During that time, the community had used the commandant’s building in many ways to serve the community. This building has served as a police station, a library, a school, and civic center. In 1949, the building was purchased by the Dearborn Historical Commission and was opened as the Dearborn Historical Museum on October 14, 1950.
Basement of Commandant’s Quarters where a Police Station stood from 1924-1948
There are currently only four of the original buildings in existence, with the Commandant’s Quarters being one of them. The Commandant’s Quarters is the oldest building in the city of Dearborn to be standing in its original location. Due to this, the Commandant’s Quarters was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 and is also designated as a Michigan Historic site.
Police and Fire Department exhibit displaying artifacts from late 19th century and early 20th century
Today, the Commandant’s Quarters is open to the public on Fridays between the hours of 2pm and 6pm for tours with additional days upon occasion and request. Due to limited staffing, calling ahead is recommended during the Winter. Come out and see us!
See various exhibits throughout Commandant’s Quarters second floor below
For more information on the Detroit Arsenal in Dearborn, click here.
Dearborn Historical Museum 