About this Exhibit

Built by the River logo

Detroit’s growth and development into one of the nation’s leading metropolitan regions is undeniably linked to the river that shares its name. The Dossin Great Lakes Museum’s core exhibition Built by the River  highlights ways that Detroiters have long used the river and lakes around us to build our industries, engage our neighbors, and pursue our recreational passions. 

The exhibition traces hundreds of years of Great Lakes maritime history, with an emphasis on the development of Southeastern Michigan. As the “City on the Straits,” Detroit's social, economic, and ecological development was undeniably impacted by its river.

And how its geographic placement made it a strategic spot for the French, British and American armed forces.

The city was a manufacturing capital and epicenter for marine transportation. For decades, the Detroit River was the busiest commercial waterway in the world, and Detroit shipyards built more vessels than any other city in the region. 

From a recreational standpoint, Belle Isle is home to the oldest rowing club — the Detroit Boat Club — in the country. A century ago, a relaxing cruise along the river and lakes was as common as a Sunday drive. Today, powerboat racers annually vie for the Gold Cup — motor sports’ oldest trophy — and fishing in the region is considered superb. 

Our heritage is also intertwined with our friends in Canada. From enslaved people escaping to Canada on the Underground Railroad to bootleggers thwarting Prohibition-era regulations against importing alcohol, the Detroit River has been home to countless stories of triumph and tragedy. 

These stories are showcased in ways that are both educational as well as interactive. This exhibition, which is aligned with Michigan science and social studies curriculum standards, informs visitors and students alike about the social, industrial, and ecological history of Detroit and the region. It also inspires them to look at our environment in a new way. 

Key exhibition aspects include:

• Hands-on interactive exhibition elements to engage younger visitors;
• A large display that simulates the thrill of racing down the Detroit River;
• An 18th century canoe re-creation that visitors may climb in and experience what early settlers felt upon arriving in the region.

Supported by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts 

Take a group tour! Built by the River is part of our Maritime History tour, which is available for school groups and adults.

Related Exhibits