Even during the depths of the Great Depression, iconic Detroit-area construction was continuing. In fact, architectural designs of that long-ago era continue to be a part of the picture of our region. Local architectural developments are just part of the focus of And Still They Prospered: Living Through the Great Depression – a program series at Macomb Community College’s Lorenzo Cultural Center running Feb. 27-May 8. The series examines the 1930s and the economic, social and cultural changes that took place during that decade, laying the groundwork for future prosperity in the Motor City and beyond.
Building and architectural-related programs during the series include:
• Detroit 1930: When Cranes No Longer Rose to the Sky, 1 p.m. March 4, a look at how the 1929 economic collapse impacted the building boom then going on in Detroit.
• Eliel Saarinen and the Building of Cranbrook: 1925-42, 1 p.m. April 9, examines the role and work of the architect and designer in the development of the Cranbrook Education Community.
• The Works Progress Administration in Detroit, 11 a.m. April 16, examines the multitude of schools, libraries and other public buildings created by the Depression-era program.
• Detroit’s Belle Isle: Island Park Gem, 2 p.m. April 25, looks at the role the park played as an idyllic retreat for the growing metropolis.
The Lorenzo Cultural Center is located on Macomb Community College’s Center Campus, Garfield & M-59, Clinton Township. The cultural center is open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wednesday – Saturday; and 1-4 p.m. Sundays. Additional information on the cultural center and on the And Still They Prospered program series is available at www.lorenzoculturalcenter.com.
About the Lorenzo Cultural Center
The Lorenzo Cultural Center (lorenzoculturalcenter.com) explores the influences and experiences that shape our community's heritage, examining topics from a variety of perspectives and creating interactive opportunities for learning, celebration and entertainment. Located on Macomb Community College's Center Campus, Hall and Garfield Roads in Clinton Township, the cultural center is adjacent to the Macomb Center for Performing Arts.
About Macomb Community College
Macomb Community College (www.macomb.edu) is one of the nation’s leading community colleges, providing learning experiences to more than 59,000 students annually. Macomb nationally ranks in the top two percent in the number of associate degrees awarded and as the largest grantor of associate degrees in Michigan. The college’s comprehensive educational programming includes pre-collegiate experiences, university transfer and career preparation programs, bachelor degree completion and graduate degree programs, workforce training, professional education and certification, and continuing education and enrichment opportunities.
Media contact:
Dan Heaton
586.445.7271
heatond@macomb.edu