Historic Hines Drive
Tour Overview
 Cruise through the western suburbs of Detroit along beautiful Hines Drive, a 17-mile long road that follows the path of the Rouge River from Dearborn to Northville.
Prior to European settlement of the area, the Rouge served as the road
through this country for local Indian tribes and for French and English
trappers. Later, the river was a
pathway for escaped slaves on their way to Canada along the Underground Railroad. Hines Drive was built in 1949 with land donated by Henry Ford and was named
after Edward Hines, head of the Wayne County Road Commission. Along the way there are a number of
historic mills, some of which Henry Ford used to make automobile parts. In addition to mills, Hines Drive is lined with baseball and soccer fields, hiking and
biking paths, fishing docks, and picnic areas. Exploring the cities of Dearborn, Plymouth,
and Northville is an added bonus when traveling this multi-faceted parkway.
Note: Sections of Hines Drive are located in a flood plain, which means the drive
may be closed during periods of heavy rain.
Ann Arbor Trail can be used as an alternate route and will take you
along generally the same, though less scenic, path.
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Henry Ford Estate -- Fair Lane
4901 Evergreen Rd., Dearborn
Website
 Though not directly on Hines Drive, the Henry Ford Estate is a stone's throw away and
an appropriate start to your journey when you consider Ford's role in the
creation of the roadway. This Great Estate and National Historic
Landmark was the home of Clara and Henry Ford for over thirty years. Construction began in 1914 with between 500
and 800 masons,
wood carvers, and artisans working under the direction of architect William
Van Tine to complete the estate. Tour the 31,000 square foot, 56-room residence, where
the Fords entertained some of the world’s most influential people, including
President Herbert Hoover, the Prince of Wales, aviator Charles Lindbergh, and
lifelong friend Thomas Edison. Explore
the spacious rooms with original furnishings and eight intricately designed
fireplaces. View the six-level working
powerhouse, research laboratory, and 12-car garage with some of Ford's
personal vehicles. And follow Ford’s
favorite walk down to the pond hidden in the woods. The meadow and cascade were designed by
renowned landscape designer Jans Jensen and are acknowledged to be two of the
greatest examples of landscape in America. Last but not
least, do not forget a bite to eat in the mansion's unique swimming pool
room. An unforgettable experience all
around!
33175 Ann Arbor Trail,
Westland
Website
 This building dates back to 1842 when it operated as
a grist mill and was the catalyst for the development of a thriving community
that sprung up around it. In 1918,
Nankin Mills was purchased by Henry Ford who made major changes to the mill
to transform it into a small automotive factory. Despite the renovations, Ford worked hard
to maintain the integrity of the historic building, including the original
tongue and groove hardwood flooring fastened to the support beams with wooden
pegs. Nankin Mills now serves as an
interpretive center that tells of the area's cultural and natural history. A great
historical stop!
Plymouth
Vicinity of Main Street and Ann Arbor Trail
Website
 Plymouth is one of the oldest communities in Michigan, settled in 1825 and incorporated as a city in
1867. It has a vibrant downtown with a
variety of shops and restaurants surrounding a beautiful park. The park
is the focal point of the city and hosts major community events such as the
popular Fall Festival, Ice Sculpture Spectacular, and Art in the Park. In addition to a beautiful downtown, Plymouth has a number of well-preserved historic homes within
walking distance. Do not pass up a
visit to this quaint city!
Northville
 Vicinity of Main Street and Center Street
Website
This distinctive community was incorporated as a city in 1867 and is
known for its rolling hills and attractive countryside. The city retains a small-town atmosphere
with stately Victorian-era architecture in its Historic District and
well-kept older homes built before the 1930s.
A "walk to" downtown boasts of old-fashioned street lamps,
benches, specialty shops, galleries, theaters, restaurants, businesses, and
preserved landmarks. Points of
interest in the area include the Northville Downs Racetrack, Northville Cider
Mill, Mill Race Historical Village, art festivals, the Victorian Festival,
holiday celebrations, and nearby Maybury State Park. Without a doubt one of the Detroit area's most charming communities!
Tour Map
Number of Destinations: 4
Overall Tour Time: 1 day
More
Information
Click on the links below for more information on Hines Drive and related attractions:
African American Heritage
Automotive Heritage
Wayne County Parks
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