Main Street Grand Rapids - The Changing Face of Monroe Avenue
The newest exhibit is available for the public to view on the 4th floor of the Grand Rapids Public Library in the History and Special Collections Department (GRHSC). This exhibit, with its many photographs from the library's collection, will bring special memories to those who remember the dimestore block, the department store windows, and the parade of cars and buses up and down Monroe Avenue - Grand Rapids' Main Street.
Take a stroll, block by block, through the heart of the city. What started as a retail district now encompasses entertainment, restaurants, condos, government offices, and commercial establishments. From its rustic beginnings at Grab Corners to the glamor of DeVos Place, the changing face of Monroe Avenue mirrors the growth and vitality of our city. This exhibit was developed with a grant from the Ryerson Foundation Thomas R. and Debra C. Dilley Fund.
A special thanks to the talented Rebecca Near and GRHSC staff for their work on the exhibit. The exhibit will be available for public viewing throughout the year.