Abandoned Detroit Churches: Where to Find Them

by | Jun 17, 2021 | Catholic Church

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As a result of economic and demographic changes in Detroit, churches, factories, schools, and other buildings are left abandoned. Even in the midst of the dirt and graffiti, urban explorers feel the allure of these forbidden places calling out to them for an adventure.

Two of these abandoned Detroit churches are still standing tall in spite of their forgotten, decaying interiors.

St. Agnes Catholic Church

St. Agnes began as a church and school in 1922. Its Gothic architecture is evident even as the building runs into ruin and despair. It peaked in 1986, accommodating more than 1600 families, multiple priests and nuns, and even a girl’s high school.

Civil unrest led to the surrounding buildings being burnt to the ground, which diminished the number of people willing to attend the church. Though attempts were made to continue the church, it was closed in 2006. Consequently, vandalism and thievery erased the former glory of one of the best Detroit churches

Woodward Avenue Presbyterian Church

With towers, a beautiful stained-glass dome, a stone-carved entrance, and a massive pipe organ, Woodward Avenue used to be the perfect example of Modern English Gothic architecture. Young people could meet, play sports, and use their recreational facilities, such as a multi-lane bowling alley.
As a result of World War I, the church had to close its doors and allow the Red Cross to temporarily use the building for war efforts. Although repairs were made to its interiors after the war, the Church kept diminishing.

Eventually, in 2005, it was left abandoned, and since the costs of restoration were too high, it remained vacant.

These abandoned Detroit churches are a wonder to behold, rich with history. However, there are numerous churches in Detroit still in use today, which rival the glory of these two. Old St. Mary’s Catholic Church is one of them.

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