See glimpse of J.L. Hudson Co. in Detroit Historical Museum holiday exhibit

Minnah Arshad, Detroit Free Press
·1 min read
Black and white photographic print, taken from the southwest side of Woodward Avenue, and looking toward the Woodward Avenue entrance of The J.L. Hudson Company Department Store in 1941. A large Christmas sign is affixed to the exterior of the department store and features holiday ornamentation; the sign reads, "A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You."
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Reminisce in Detroit’s nostalgic past this season, with a trip back in time to the J.L. Hudson Company.

The Detroit Historical Museum is opening its latest exhibit, Hudson’s Holidays on Thursday.

Founded in 1881, J.L. Hudson's was a staple in the city for decades. Following a decline in business around the mid-1900s, the store shut down in 1983, according to the Detroit Historical Society’s website. Until 1961, the 25-story building was the world’s tallest department store.

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This season, Detroiters will get to see elements of Hudson’s in popup exhibits across the museum, including the store’s holiday-themed toys and décor, fashion, and artifacts from the downtown building.

An elevator sign at the J.L. Hudson Company Department Store in 1950. The sign notes the 7th Floor, and the differing departments located on the floor which include, Millinery and Trimmings; Women's Shoes; Shoe Repair; She Salon; Casual Suits; Coat and Dresses; B.H. Wragge Fashions; Town and Country Fashions; Blouses, Sweaters, Skirts; Dresses; Accessory Bar; Gown Salon; and Fashion Coats.

Through December, the museum will offer free admission on Sundays to showcase Hudson’s Holidays from 1-5 p.m. The exhibit will be open until Jan. 30.

The Detroit Historical Museum will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Contact Minnah Arshad: MArshad@freepress.com and follow her on Twitter @minnaharshad.

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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Historical Museum opens J.L. Hudson holiday exhibit Thursday