Detroit’s historic Park Shelton, a condominium community, is enjoying a revival as a trendy residence in the city’s popular Midtown District. The Park Shelton was originally the Wardell Apartment Hotel and named after the owner Fred Wardell.
Fred Wardell founded the Eureka Vacuum Cleaner Company in Detroit in 1909. This thriving business venture enabled Wardell to open the Wardell Apartment Hotel, a residential style hotel offering extended stays, in 1926.
The name was later changed to The Park Shelton Hotel where it offered luxurious accomodations again for those wishing to stay for a short or long period of time. Famous people who have stayed at the Wardell/Park Shelton include: Diego Rivera, Bob Hope, Gracie Allen, George Burns and Raymond Burr.
Did you find this history tidbit interesting? This is just a glimpse of the history behind Detroit’s Midtown. Join us on Thursday mornings for our Discover Detroit’s Midtown Walking Tours, which depart from the historic Park Shelton. Click here for details.
Can’t make Thursday mornings? Hometown History Tours offers private tours for just a couple of people or larger groups. If your group has a bus, we can provide step-on guide service and provide an expanded tour of Detroit’s Midtown and Cultural Center. Contact us for more information!
HOMETOWN HISTORY TOURS 