However, as Detroit expanded and industry moved into the area in the late 1880s, the farms began to be subdivided.

In the 1910s and 1920s, the neighborhood grew rapidly as a result of the construction of the nearby Ford River Rouge Complex.

[3] In 1915, in response to the growing population of primarily German immigrants, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Detroit established St. Gabriel's Church (located at Vernor and Norman).

The district contains a high concentration of early twentieth century two-story commercial buildings.

The most visually striking structure is the former Rio theatre, designed by architect Cyril Edward Schley, at the northwest corner of West Vernor and Central Avenue[3] The district also the St. Gabriel's Church parish complex.