History
Jefferson is one of five major avenues (along with Woodward, Michigan, Grand River, and Gratiot) planned by Judge Augustus Woodward in 1805 that extend from downtown Detroit in differing directions. First surveyed in 1807, it was named Main Street. It was later renamed Jefferson Avenue after U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, who was a friend of Woodward. Jefferson Avenue was planned to extend due east of downtown, parallel to the Detroit River. Later additions to the road have extended it west of downtown as well, where it continues to travel near the waterfront through the Downriver area.
Read more about this topic: Jefferson Avenue (Detroit)
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