Elisha Taylor House

Introduction

Set in Detroit’s historic Brush Park neighborhood, the Elisha Taylor House—often called the Art House—stands as a testament to the city’s architectural and cultural legacy. Constructed in the early 1870s, this mansion uniquely blends Gothic Revival, Tudor Revival, Queen Anne, and Italianate styles, showcasing the tastes of Detroit’s Gilded Age elite. With remarkably preserved interiors and a curated collection of period furnishings and artifacts, the house now serves as a center for art, architecture, and historic preservation. This guide offers everything you need to plan your visit: from site history and architectural highlights to practical details about hours, tickets, accessibility, and travel tips.

For additional details and the latest updates, consult the official Art House Tours website (Art House Tours), Wikiwand, or the Detroit Historical Society.

Origins and Construction

Completed in 1872, the Elisha Taylor House was commissioned by prominent attorney and civic leader Elisha Taylor. Its location in Brush Park—a district synonymous in the late 19th century with Detroit’s affluent elite—signified both status and access to the city’s vibrant social scene (Art House Tours). Designed by the architectural firm Koch & Hess, the house exemplifies Detroit’s Gilded Age aspirations and innovation.

Elisha Taylor: The Man Behind the House

Elisha Taylor played a key role in Detroit’s legal and civic spheres. His choice to build in Brush Park underscores the neighborhood’s elite stature at the time. Taylor’s home not only provided a private residence but also hosted social and cultural gatherings, cementing its place in the city’s social fabric.

Architectural Features and Interior Preservation

Exterior Highlights

• Eclectic Architecture: The house skillfully merges Gothic Revival (steep roofs, pointed arches), Tudor Revival (brickwork, pitched roofs), Queen Anne (asymmetrical design, bay windows), and Italianate (tall windows, ornate cornices) elements (Wikiwand).
• Mansard Roof: The high mansard roof, typical of Second Empire style, enhances both grandeur and living space.
• Red Brick and Stone: Durable red brick sits atop a stone foundation, with decorative vergeboarding and large dormers punctuating the roofline.

Interior Highlights

• Original Features: Visitors will find preserved fireplaces, carved woodwork, decorative plaster ceilings, and stenciling from the 19th century.
• Mintons Tiles and Parquet Floors: Floors feature imported Mintons encaustic tiles and intricate parquet wood.
• Etched Glass and Mirrors: Etched glass windows and large mirrors reflect the original ambiance and craftsmanship.

The house’s interiors offer a rare, authentic glimpse into the domestic life of Detroit’s elite, functioning as a living museum (Art House Tours).

Visiting the Elisha Taylor House: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility

Hours

• By Appointment Only: Tours must be scheduled in advance. Typical availability is Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.
• Seasonal Variability: Special events and restoration work may affect availability—always check the official website or call ahead.

Tickets

• General Admission: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (65+), $5 for students/children under 12.
• Groups: Discounts for groups of 10+; inquire during booking.

Accessibility

• The historic nature of the building limits full wheelchair access, but key public rooms and restrooms are accessible. Contact the Art House in advance for specific needs.

Guided Tours and Special Events

• Guided tours are included with admission and led by knowledgeable docents.
• The house hosts lectures, exhibitions, and community events throughout the year.

Travel Tips: Parking, Transportation & Nearby Attractions

Parking

• Street parking is available in Brush Park, but spots may be limited during busy times.
• Paid parking lots and garages are located within walking distance.

Public Transportation

• The Detroit QLINE streetcar stops nearby at Mack Avenue and Brush Street.
• Multiple bus routes serve the area.

Nearby Attractions

• Detroit Institute of Arts
• Grand Circus Park
• Other historic Brush Park mansions

The location makes it easy to combine your visit with other Detroit cultural destinations.

The House Through the Ages

After Taylor’s residency, the house changed hands multiple times, surviving periods of urban decline that saw many neighboring mansions demolished. In 1981, it was transformed into the Art House, dedicated to art and architectural study, and became a focal point for preservation and education (Art House Tours).

Significance in Detroit’s Urban and Cultural Landscape

The Elisha Taylor House embodies Detroit’s spirit of resilience and reinvention. Its survival and ongoing use as Art House highlight the city’s commitment to architectural preservation and cultural education, serving as both a neighborhood anchor and a symbol of Detroit’s past and future (Detroit Historical Society).

Recognition and Preservation Efforts

• National Register of Historic Places: Listed since 1975.
• Michigan State Historic Site: Designated in 1973.
• Adaptive Reuse: Ongoing restoration respects historical integrity while accommodating public use (Wikiwand).

Artifacts and Collections

The house displays a wide range of period furnishings, artwork, and artifacts spanning over 2,000 years. These items enrich the visitor experience and serve as an educational resource for art history and material culture (Art House Tours).

The House Today

As Art House, the Elisha Taylor House welcomes group tours, educational programs, and special events by appointment. Its continued preservation and public engagement make it a vital part of Detroit’s cultural scene (Art House Tours).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: By appointment, typically Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Q: How much is admission?
A: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $5 students/children under 12. Group discounts available.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, included with admission.

Q: Is the house wheelchair accessible?
A: Partial accessibility; contact in advance for details.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Permitted in most areas, but flash may be restricted.

Q: How do I get there by public transit?
A: QLINE streetcar (Mack Ave/Brush St stop) and several bus routes serve the area.

Plan Your Visit

• Address: 59 Alfred Street, Detroit, MI 48201
• Phone: (313) 832-2322
• Website: Art House Tours

All visits must be scheduled in advance. For current details, ticketing, and event information, check the official website.

Visuals and Media

The Gothic Revival façade of the Elisha Taylor House in Detroit’s Brush Park neighborhood.

Preserved 19th-century interiors showcasing original woodwork and decorative plaster ceilings.

For more images, virtual tours, and event updates, visit the official site or platforms like Flickr.

Final Tips

• Book tours well in advance, especially for groups.
• Wear comfortable shoes; interior floors are original and uneven in places.
• Combine your visit with a walk through Brush Park or a trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts.
• For audio tours and insider tips, consider downloading the Audiala app.

The Elisha Taylor House is an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand Detroit’s architectural, social, and cultural evolution. As a meticulously preserved historic site and an active educational center, it continues to bridge Detroit’s illustrious past with its vibrant present.

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