Detroit's Civil War history is a tapestry woven with tales of valor, division, and the struggle for freedom. As the Union fought to preserve itself and end slavery, Detroit emerged as a key player, serving not only as a major supply hub for Union forces but also as a critical stop on the Underground Railroad. Detroit History Tours is proud to invite guests to embark on a gripping 2 hour, 1.5-mile journey through Detroit's Civil War history. Witness the launch site of a commandeered merchant vessel turned Confederate raider, aiming to orchestrate the largest prison break in American history. Trace the paths trodden by brave souls who marched to war, committed to preserving the Union, reunifying the nation, and aiding in the liberation of an enslaved people. Uncover tales of riots, upheaval, and dissenters that reveal a city divided in its support for the war effort. Delve into Detroit's pivotal role in the Underground Railroad, serving both as a beacon of hope and a treacherous passage in the quest for freedom.

"Beyond the Battlefield: Detroit in the Civil War Walking Tour" promises a deep dive into the less commonly explored aspects of Detroit's involvement in the Civil War. This tour offers insights into the city's strategic importance to the Union's efforts, its role in the Underground Railroad, and the impact of the war on the city's social and economic fabric. Participants can expect to explore historical sites, hear stories of valor and struggle, and gain a comprehensive understanding of Detroit's significant contributions to a pivotal period in American history.

This one-way tour unfolds at a leisurely pace, covering nearly a mile and a half of storied ground and concludes at Grand Circus Park. Following the tour, guests are free to return to their vehicles at their own pace—a straightforward, safe journey down Woodward Avenue—or to explore the myriad of exceptional shops, bars, and restaurants along the route.

THE DETAILS:

• This tour departs from the GM Plaza Promenade, on Atwater St. overlooking the Detroit River, in front of the Renaissance Center at 300 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48226. Please meet your guide on the river side of the Plaza Promenade, directly opposite the Renaissance Center Doors and Andiamo's Restaurant. Your guide will be wearing a grey, Detroit History Tours t-shirt.

  • Several parking options are available, including parking garages (rates vary from $10 all day to $12 an hour depending on the lot and day of the week), on-street metered parking ($0.75 an hour weekday or $1.50 an hour weekend), or park and ride with both the People Mover (you’ll need to exit at the Ren Cen stop and walk two blocks) or the Q Line (Exit at the Jefferson Ave/Spirit of Detroit stop and walk 3 blocks).

• Guests aged 12 and above are warmly invited to join this tour. We advise guardians that all minors must be accompanied and inform attendees that this tour does not shy away from discussing themes of violent crime, death, illness, and slavery. The content of this tour will not be modified for younger audiences, and we reserve the right to restrict participation to individuals under the age of 12.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW:

• Good shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are highly recommended.

• To best enjoy this tour, guests should be able to climb inclines, as well as walk over uneven surfaces, grassy areas, and sidewalks.

• Guests must be able to stand for extended periods of time.

• Guests are welcome to bring a nonalcoholic drink on the tour. We recommend a bottle of water.

• Public bathrooms are not available on the tour. Guests are kindly asked to plan accordingly.

• Recreational photography is permitted (encouraged) on this tour. Professional photography or videography of any kind are not permitted without written approval at least 15 days in advance.

• This tour takes place in all weather conditions, with the exception of thunder and lightning. In the event the tour is canceled due to weather, all guests will be refunded or have the option to rebook.

• Guides will be on site at least 20 minutes prior to the ticketed start time. The tour will depart at the ticketed start time.

• Late guest arrivals cannot be accommodated.

• Your order confirmation email will serve as your only ticket. Please save your email and be prepared to show it on your phone or printed at the start of your tour. Guides will also have a manifest with each guest's name. (We do this to avoid the ticketing fees that come along with all ticketing systems. The price of your ticket will remain the same throughout checkout with no added service charges, fees, or tax. However, absolutely nothing will be mailed to you, and no physical ticket will be sent.)

Meet Your Guide:

Jeff Pollock

Jeff Pollock is a public historian, event organizer, and advocate for the ‘Vernors Cure.’ Prior to coming to Detroit History Tours, Jeff (known as Pollock at Detroit History Tours) had stints at museums in Monroe, Sanilac County and Detroit.  He has a passion for history, but is especially drawn to the history of crime in Detroit, the Civil War, sports history and the W.P.A.  He is an advocate for all things East Side, and relishes a good trivia question.  Pollock’s only regrets in life are being born too late to watch Norm Cash bat with a table leg or see a Goodfellow Game.