THE HISTORY

211 has played a key role in Detroit’s skyline and commercial landscape since its completion in 1963. Designed by the architectural firm Harley, Ellington, Cowin & Stirton, the building was constructed to house the headquarters of the Detroit Bank and Trust Company, which would later become Comerica Bank.

Strategically situated at the southeast corner of Fort Street and Washington Boulevard, 211 West Fort Street stands adjacent to the Detroit Trust Company Building, designed by Albert Kahn in 1915. This positioning highlights Detroit’s role as a significant financial center in the early 20th century. The Detroit Bank and Trust Company occupied the building until 1993, when Comerica moved its headquarters to One Detroit Center. A sculpture inspired by the bank’s logo during its time at 211 West Fort Street remains in the courtyard between the two buildings, serving as a lasting reminder of the building's roots in Detroit’s banking history.

After Comerica’s relocation, 211 West Fort Street underwent a transformation, shifting from a single-tenant financial institution to a multi-tenant office building. Today, 211 West Fort Street remains a vital part of Detroit’s downtown. Owned by Tribus LLC, a family-run firm out of Grosse Pointe, MI, the building houses a diverse range of tenants, primarily from sectors such as business, government, legal services, and continues to play a role in the city’s ongoing revitalization.

1961

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS

Detroit Bank and Trust Co. breaks ground marking the beginning of construction at 211 West Fort Street in partnership with architects Harley, Ellington, Cowin & Stirton Inc.

Group of men in suits and coats examining excavation site with tools at the excavation of 211 West Fort Street

Dr. Arnold Pilling, Sam Malam, George Stark, Henry Brown, William B. Hall, and Harold P. Carr posing in front of the ruins at Fort Lernoult during the construction of the Detroit Bank and Trust Building at 211 West Fort Street.

1962

1963

211’S BEGINNINGS

Construction is completed and the building opens as the headquarters for the Detroit Bank & Trust Co., later renamed as Comerica Bank.

Historical flag-raising ceremony at Detroit Bank & Trust building with people in period costumes and onlookers. Currently 211 West Fort Street.

Photo capturing the flag-raising event on Anthony Wayne Day, July 11, taking place in front of 211 West Fort Street, formerly the Detroit Bank and Trust building. This location is near the spot where the first American flag was flown over Detroit, at the southwest corner of Fort Lernoult. Solan Weeks, along with four others—one dressed in a colonial soldier's uniform—raise the flag while a crowd in period costumes observes.