Detroit, Michigan Wyland Whaling Wall 76

History of the Detroit, Michigan Wyland Whaling Wall 76

-Whale Tower

Whaling wall 76

“Whale Tower” is perhaps one of the most controversial murals in Wyland’s collection, and sits on the David Broderick Tower in Detroit, Michigan. It was dedicated in October 1997 by Congressman Sander Levin and Michigan State Senator Michael Bushard, a Michigan State. Created as a gift to the people of the city in hopes of inspiring community revitalization, Wyland painted the mural as a donation to the community he grew up in. However, as Detroit entered one of their most challenging economic periods, many companies fought for the right to cover the mural with billboards, causing a major clash between commercial interests and the interests of conservationists. The fight eventually reached the Michigan Supreme Court.

The mural, still standing, serves as a symbol of resilience for Detroit and for Wyland’s conservation efforts through The Wyland Foundation. This mural represents more than the beautiful whales, but the importance of standing firm and protecting public art. By maintaining “Whale Tower” the Wyland Foundation connects protecting the environment with urban renewal in a way that encourages residents to identify how their lives connect to the health of our global ecosystems.

Did You Know?

20% of the world’s surface freshwater can be found in the Great Lakes, like Lake Michigan, and underscores Detroit’s connection to our vital water systems.
Detroit’s waterways faced many challenges in the 1990s thanks to pollution and runoff in their urban and industrial areas. The Detroit River, flowing into Lake Erie, took the brunt of the impact.

In large cities like Detroit, industrial waste and urban runoff are constant challenges. In 1997, the Clean Water Action Plan assisted cities in protecting their waterways. Residents were encouraged to take an active role in reducing pollution. The Wyland Foundation supports education around taking action to mitigate upstream activities that cause downstream issues.

David Broderick Tower
10 Witherell, Detroit, Michigan
65 Feet Long x 180 Feet High
Dedicated October 13th, 1997
By Sander Levin, Michigan Congressman
& Michael Bushard, Michigan State Senator

OUR news

Latest from Blog

Check out our latest and newest blogs for detailed articles on Wyland’s achievements, volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and giveaways. Shop Wyland, and all proceeds from your purchases directly support our efforts to bring people together for clean water and healthy oceans.