Uniquely Detroit: Go inside the Motown Mansion

Uniquely Detroit takes you inside the history and splendor of the Motown Mansion.

Nels Michelson built the home in 1917. He came from Denmark to the United States with almost nothing and settled in northern Michigan. He started in the lumber business with a single mule to haul the lumber. He saved his money until he had enough to buy a lumber mill. In 1906, he created the Grayling Lumber Co.

He invested his money into Detroit, a city that, at the time, was showing potential.

He moved his family to the city, started a home building company and built the mansion at 918 West Boston Blvd.

Berry Gordy lived in the house from 1967-1969, but owned the property until 2002.