GLCC Guided Tour of the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House – April 6th at 1:00 pm
In addition to the house tour, we can stroll the grounds, visit the Playhouse and Garage
1100 Lake Shore Rd, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236
Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake St. Clair lies the illustrious Edsel & Eleanor Ford House, an architectural masterpiece and emblem of American history. This storied estate beckons with its timeless elegance, boasting breathtaking gardens, extraordinary interiors, and a legacy steeped in innovation and cultural influence. Beyond its historic significance as a home designed by renowned architects, it stands as a testament to the Ford family’s passion for art, design, and philanthropy. A visit to Ford House is an invitation to immerse oneself in a bygone era of sophistication, innovation, and the enduring legacy of an American dynasty.
The impeccably designed Main Residence was Edsel and Eleanor Ford’s dream house: a warm, welcoming place for family.
You’ll find it’s not ostentatious or intimidating, despite the elegant decor and the fine art on the walls. The rooms feel intimate and comfortable. It isn’t just a house — it’s a home.
The house was designed by prominent architect Albert Kahn, known for his work on several iconic structures in Detroit and industrial design in Ford Motor Co. factories. The look of Edsel and Eleanor’s house was inspired by Cotswold-style cottages in England. The family moved into their home in 1928.
Inside the House, the rooms feature classic western European interior design styles.
Like many of us do, the Fords updated spaces in their home as time passed. In the 1930s, Edsel hired famed industrial designer and Ford Motor Company collaborator Walter Dorwin Teague to redecorate four rooms. Teague created rich and original designs using a sleek, modern Machine-Age aesthetic. Later in the 1950s after Edsel’s passing, Eleanor hired friend and interior decorator Polly Jessup to design spaces that reflected her taste and highlighted her collection of fine art and antique furniture.
Around every corner, you can discover world-class art and design pieces collected by art-lovers Edsel and Eleanor. They displayed paintings by Vincent Van Gogh and Diego Rivera – a personal friend of Edsel – classic European portraiture, modern-style sculptures, and ancient Asian and African artifacts.
We are purchasing tickets in advance and will collect payment from you.
$10 per person ($8 for 65+)
Please RSVP – Since this is an arranged pre-purchased tour the cut-off for registration and payment is March 22!