Probably the most unusual building downtown is the triangular "castle" that dominates over Grand River and Cass. Rather then some fairy-tale landmark or defensive fortification the Grand Army of the Republic Building served as the local quarters for an association of Union Civil War veterans.

Intended as a memorial its spacious meeting hall and other facilities served Detroit's citizens for over 80 years.

Today its social rooms and fortress like turrets are inhabited only by armies of pigeons. Closed since 1982 the G.A.R. is a superb candidate for renovation.