From Delray to Livonia: Uncovering the History of Your Historic Home

Because you know the house was moved in 1935, you have a distinct advantage: you are looking for a structure that existed in Delray prior to that date. Here is how you can find the exact details:

1. Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps (The “Gold Standard”)

Sanborn maps are detailed, color-coded maps created to help insurance companies assess fire risk. They show every building’s footprint, building material, and even the number of stories.

• How to use them: Search for “Digital Sanborn Maps” through the Detroit Public Library (they often have digital access for cardholders). Search the maps for the Delray neighborhood between 1890 and 1935. You are looking for a house footprint that matches the dimensions and layout of your current home.

2. Search Local Newspaper Archives (1930–1936)

Moving a house was often considered a “local human-interest story.”

• The Search: Check the Detroit Free Press or The Detroit News archives (available through major libraries like the Detroit Public Library or potentially the Livonia Public Library).
• Keywords: Search for terms like “house moved,” “Delray to Livonia,” or your grandfather’s last name combined with “moving.” You might find an article mentioning the project, which could give you the street address in Delray where it originally stood!

3. Wayne County Register of Deeds

Since you know the property history is in Wayne County, you can search property records.

• While the deeds might reflect the 1935 move to the new lot, they may contain references to the structure itself or the transaction details when your grandfather purchased it. You can access Wayne County Land Records online for records prior to 1960.

4. The Livonia Historical Commission

Livonia has a very active historical community. Reach out to the Livonia Historical Commission or the local library’s genealogy/local history department. They may have specific records regarding the “relocation” of homes into the area during the 1930s, as this was a common practice during the expansion of the suburbs.

Pro-Tip: If you find a photo or an address of the house in its original location in Delray, compare the foundation. If you see stone or brick in the old photos versus the concrete foundation today, that could tell you about what was changed during the 1935 move.