The Detroit Michigan Temple was the first temple built in Michigan and has served members throughout the state since its dedication in 1999. Located in the beautiful community of Bloomfield Hills, just north of Detroit, the temple is known for its elegant white marble exterior, peaceful wooded surroundings, and rich connections to early Church history in Michigan.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Detroit Michigan Temple on August 10, 1998, as part of the Church's continuing effort to build smaller temples closer to members around the world.
Groundbreaking services were held on October 10, 1998, with Elder Jay E. Jensen presiding. Interestingly, the groundbreaking occurred on the same day as the Spokane Washington Temple groundbreaking—the first time in Church history that two temple groundbreaking ceremonies were held on the same day. Following an eight-day public open house, President Hinckley dedicated the temple on October 23–24, 1999, making it the 63rd dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Detroit Michigan Temple's most interesting features is its connection to early Restoration history. President Gordon B. Hinckley noted during the dedication that Stephen Mack, the brother of Lucy Mack Smith (Joseph Smith's mother), surveyed the original road that became Woodward Avenue, the major thoroughfare that runs directly in front of the temple. Because Joseph Smith and his family traveled through the Detroit area in 1834, many believe they likely passed near the present-day temple site.
The temple is finished with beautiful Imperial Danby White marble quarried in Vermont, giving it a bright, timeless appearance. A graceful single attached spire topped with the angel Moroni rises above the surrounding trees, while the carefully landscaped grounds provide a peaceful retreat despite being located along one of metropolitan Detroit's busiest roads.
Another remarkable part of the temple's story is how the site was selected. The property had originally been purchased in the 1950s for a stake center, and although portions of the land were considered for sale over the years, they were never sold. When leaders later measured the remaining wooded lot, they discovered it was the perfect size for Michigan's first temple.
Visiting the Temple
The Detroit Michigan Temple is located at 37425 Woodward Avenue in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. While there is no visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or on-site distribution center, the beautifully landscaped grounds are open to the public and offer a quiet place for reflection. The temple's convenient location also makes it an easy stop for visitors exploring the greater Detroit area.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in Michigan.
- 63rd dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on August 10, 1998.
- Groundbreaking held on October 10, 1998.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on October 23–24, 1999.
- One of two temples whose groundbreaking ceremonies were held on the same day.
- Built on a 6.34-acre property.
- Approximately 10,700 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with Imperial Danby White marble from Vermont.
Final Thoughts
The Detroit Michigan Temple stands as a symbol of faith for Latter-day Saints throughout Michigan. Its elegant marble exterior, fascinating historical connections, and peaceful setting have made it a treasured house of the Lord since 1999. Whether you're attending the temple or simply enjoying the beautiful grounds, the Detroit Michigan Temple is a meaningful stop on any temple journey.
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