The William A. Fisher Mansion – 1791 Wellesley Drive, Detroit, MI 48203

The William A. Fisher Mansion at 1791 Wellesley Drive, Detroit, MI 48203 is a landmark residence in the Palmer Woods Historic District.

Constructed in 1916 by prominent Detroit architect Richard H. Marr for William A. Fisher (one of five of the iconic Fisher Brothers who produced an impressive 370,000 car bodies for Ford, Cadillac, Studebaker, Buick, Packard, Oldsmobile, and Chevrolet), the 1791 Wellesley Drive mansion epitomizes the early ambition and luxury that defined Palmer Woods during its early years.

Marr’s design of the 1791 Wellesley Drive property reflected the refined elegance he reserved for only his most impressive commissions – quality materials, impressive massing, and an attention to detail that placed the mansion among the Palmer Woods District’s best architectural gems at a time when it was evolving into a prestigious residential enclave known for its architectural sophistication. 

Sadly, the unthinkable happened in 1994 when a fire caused by propane heaters raged through the mansion while it was undergoing major renovation, leaving the home heavily damaged – a tragic event that led to endless debate and severe emotional backlash from preservationists who wanted to find a way to salvage what remained.

Unfortunately, after a year of assessments and endless deliberation, the decision was made to demolish the remains of the mansion in January 1995, putting an end to the legacy of one of Palmer Woods’ earliest and most significant architectural masterpieces and one that remains a core part of Palmer Woods’ historical fingerprint.