The History of
the Frederick Stearns House
A Legacy of Innovation & Culture
(1902–1921)
Perched gracefully on East Jefferson Avenue in Detroit, the Frederick K. Stearns House is a testament to the grandeur of early 20th-century architecture. Commissioned in 1902 by Frederick K. Stearns, heir to the pharmaceutical empire Frederick Stearns & Company, this Tudor Revival masterpiece was designed by the renowned architects Stratton & Baldwin. The house, with its signature half-timber façades, steep gabled rooflines, and intricate detailing, immediately stood out as a symbol of sophistication and innovation.
Frederick K. Stearns, not just a savvy businessman but also a passionate patron of the arts, infused his home with the creative spirit of the era. As president of his father’s pharmaceutical company, he steered it to international prominence, bringing the same ambition to his residence. Every corner of the home radiated luxury, from its painted glass windows to the ornate Pewabic-tiled fireplace—a hallmark of Detroit’s Arts and Crafts movement.
The Transformative Journey Through Time
As decades rolled on, the Frederick K. Stearns House transformed in ways its original owner might never have imagined. By the mid-20th century, the residence transitioned from a private sanctuary to a bustling hub of commerce. It hosted organizations like the Detroit-Wayne County Port Authority and the University of Michigan and became a center for civic engagement and innovation.
A Living Showcase of Artistic Mastery
Step inside, and you’ll find yourself transported to an era where craftsmanship reigned supreme. The house’s painted glass windows dazzle with their kaleidoscope of colors, while Moravian tiles and the Pewabic fireplace add warmth and charm. These features, celebrated by preservationists, earned the house a coveted spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.
Beyond its aesthetics, the Frederick Stearns House tells a story of resilience and renewal, capturing the essence of Detroit itself—a city that cherishes its roots while always looking ahead.
A Modern Tribute to Detroit’s Grandeur
Today, the Frederick Stearns House isn’t just a historic landmark; it’s a vibrant hub for community and celebration. Operating as a boutique inn, the house offers a unique experience that combines vintage elegance with modern comforts. Guests can admire the grand ballroom’s timeless beauty, relax in a cozy speakeasy, or host unforgettable events in its meticulously restored spaces.
The house stands as more than just a relic of the past—it’s a living, breathing symbol of Detroit’s enduring spirit, where history and hospitality come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking an extraordinary place to stay, the Frederick Stearns House promises an experience like no other.
A Legacy of Innovation & Culture
(1902–1921)
Frederick Stearns was an avid collector of musical instruments, amassing one of the largest private collections of his time. Many of these instruments were later donated to the University of Michigan, forming the foundation of the Stearns Collection of Musical Instruments.
The house itself often echoed with music, hosting private recitals in the grand music room, which remains one of the home’s defining features.
The Changing Face of the Mansion
(1921–Present)
After Stearns’s passing in 1921, the mansion saw several transformations. For decades, it served as office space for organizations such as the Detroit-Wayne County Port Authority and the Friends of Belle Isle. Despite these changes in use, the house retained much of its architectural integrity, though it fell into disrepair in the late 20th century.
The Restoration and Revival
(2018–2022)
In 2018, the Frederick Stearns House began its journey of revival. The current owners dedicated themselves to restoring the property to its original splendor while integrating modern amenities to ensure its relevance in the 21st century. Over four years, the restoration team worked to preserve its historic elements, including the original Pewabic tile fireplaces, Moravian tile fireplace, and stained-glass windows.
Read more about our restoration journey in Hour Magazine’s: A Look Inside West Village’s Historic Frederick Stearns House
A New Chapter:
The Historic Inn
Today, the Frederick Stearns House is a boutique historic inn and cultural venue. Each guest room is uniquely designed to reflect the house’s storied past, and the speakeasy-style pub in the lower level offers an intimate glimpse into early 20th-century Detroit. The house continues to host events, bringing people together just as it did over a century ago.
The Stearns Legacy Lives On
Through its transformation into a vibrant space for hospitality and culture, the Frederick Stearns House bridges Detroit’s illustrious past with its dynamic present. Guests are invited to walk through its storied halls, enjoy its architectural beauty, and immerse themselves in the legacy of a man whose passion for innovation and the arts left an indelible mark on the city.
