The Faces of Detroit

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Polish women pause to discuss the daily news, c. 1916.
The Polish were the largest and one of the most influential ethnic groups in Detroit. They came in great numbers at the end of the 19th century, and worked in many of the city’s early factories. By 1920, the Poles formed nearly 20% of Detroit’s population.


Additional Resources:
Detroit News Photonegative Collection
Virtual Motor City Project