Historic Detroit

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Hurlbut Memorial Gate - Photos

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the monument, which was originally built in 1894, is named after Chauncey Hurlbut.

Chauncey Hurlbut was a 19th Century president of Detroit’s Board of Water Commissioners.

The statue and monument suffered extensive damage after being struck by lightning in 2019. The eagle has since been completely recreated and was reinstalled on the memorial gate.

The eagle was recreated by stone masons who carved a new statue out of limestone. The block of limestone used to carve the new eagle came from the same quarry and the same lot that was used to build the Michigan Central train station more than 100 years ago.

The monument as seen from Jefferson Ave. in April 2023

Between 2019 and 2023, GLWA has worked with contractors to repair or replace portions of and clean the entire monument.

A closer look at some of the details

A closer look at some of the details

Decades ago, somebody stole the bronze bust of Chauncey Hurlbut from its pedestal in the gate.

The dome of the Memorial Gate proudly exudes its heritage of Beaux Arts Classicism.

A view at the gate from a different perspective. April 2023.