Lost Mechanical Burroughs Adding Machine Workshops Of Detroit

Have you ever wondered about the lost mechanical Burroughs adding machine workshops of Detroit? These workshops once buzzed with activity, producing machines that revolutionized accounting. In the early 20th century, Detroit wasn't just about cars; it was also a hub for innovative office equipment. The Burroughs Adding Machine Company played a huge role in this transformation. Their machines made complex calculations easier, changing how businesses operated. Today, these workshops are mostly forgotten, overshadowed by the city's automotive legacy. However, their impact on business practices remains significant. Let's take a closer look at how these workshops shaped Detroit's industrial landscape.

The Rise of Burroughs Adding Machine Company

Detroit, once a bustling hub of innovation, saw the rise of the Burroughs Adding Machine Company. This company revolutionized the way businesses handled finances. Let's explore some of the iconic workshops that played a significant role in this journey.

Key Workshops of Burroughs Adding Machine Company

These workshops were the backbone of the company's success. Each location had its own unique charm and contribution to the legacy of Burroughs.

1. Highland Park Plant

   • Located in the heart of Detroit, this plant was the first major workshop for Burroughs. It became a symbol of industrial prowess and innovation. Workers here crafted some of the earliest models of adding machines, setting the stage for future advancements.

2. Piquette Avenue Workshop

   • Nestled in a historic district, this workshop saw the development of many prototypes. Engineers and designers collaborated here, pushing the boundaries of mechanical computing. The Piquette Avenue Workshop was known for its creative atmosphere and groundbreaking ideas.

3. Woodward Avenue Facility

   • This facility was a testament to the growth of Burroughs. As demand for adding machines increased, the Woodward Avenue Facility expanded its operations. It became a bustling center of production, churning out machines that would be used worldwide.

4. Cass Avenue Engineering Lab

   • Innovation thrived at the Cass Avenue Engineering Lab. This lab was where many of the company's most significant technological advancements were made. Engineers here worked tirelessly to improve the efficiency and functionality of the adding machines.

5. Grand River Avenue Assembly Line

   • The Grand River Avenue Assembly Line was a marvel of modern manufacturing. It streamlined the production process, allowing Burroughs to meet the growing demand for their machines. This assembly line was a key factor in the company's ability to scale up its operations.

6. Fort Street Research Center

   • Research and development were the focus at the Fort Street Research Center. Here, scientists and engineers experimented with new materials and designs. Their work led to the creation of more durable and reliable adding machines.

7. Michigan Avenue Training Facility

   • Training the next generation of engineers and technicians was crucial for Burroughs. The Michigan Avenue Training Facility provided hands-on experience and education. This ensured that the company had a steady stream of skilled workers ready to innovate.

8. Jefferson Avenue Headquarters

   • The headquarters on Jefferson Avenue was the nerve center of Burroughs' operations. From here, executives made strategic decisions that guided the company's growth. It was also a hub for administrative functions and corporate planning.

9. Gratiot Avenue Distribution Center

   • Efficient distribution was key to Burroughs' success. The Gratiot Avenue Distribution Center handled the logistics of getting machines to customers. This center ensured that orders were fulfilled promptly and accurately.

10. Livernois Avenue Maintenance Workshop

    • Maintenance and repairs were handled at the Livernois Avenue Workshop. Keeping machines in top working condition was essential for customer satisfaction. Technicians here were skilled in troubleshooting and fixing any issues that arose.

The Legacy of Burroughs Adding Machine Workshops

The legacy of these workshops lives on in the history of Detroit and the world of mechanical computing. Each location contributed to the success and innovation of the Burroughs Adding Machine Company. Their impact can still be felt today, as they paved the way for modern computing technology.

Preserving Detroit's Mechanical Heritage

Detroit's Burroughs Adding Machine workshops hold a special place in the city's history. These workshops were not just places of work but hubs of innovation and craftsmanship. As technology advanced, these mechanical marvels became relics of the past, yet their legacy lives on.

Efforts to preserve these workshops and their machines are crucial. They offer a glimpse into a time when precision and manual skill were paramount. Visiting these sites or supporting preservation initiatives helps keep this important part of Detroit's heritage alive.

Next time you're in Detroit, consider exploring these historical gems. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the city's industrial past and the ingenuity that powered it. Burroughs Adding Machine workshops are more than just old buildings; they're a testament to human creativity and determination.