Introduction
Tucked away on the southeast side of Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor Hills is a neighborhood steeped in quiet elegance, mature woodlands, and a history that echoes the evolution of the city itself. Known for its gently rolling streets, historic homes, and a close-knit community, Ann Arbor Hills stands as an emblem of both tradition and progressive growth. For those who call it home, or simply enjoy a stroll through its leafy avenues, the neighborhood’s rich backstory gives every road and building a deeper meaning.
Origins: Where Ann Arbor Hills Began
Ann Arbor Hills’ roots go back to the early 20th century. As Ann Arbor itself was expanding from its University of Michigan core, city leaders, developers, and families began looking for residential space set apart from the bustle of downtown. The hilly terrain southeast of Washtenaw Avenue, between Geddes and Hill Streets, provided an idyllic setting—high above the floodplain, with views of the Huron River valley.
The neighborhood officially took shape in the 1920s and 1930s, with many of the initial land purchases and platting led by prominent Ann Arbor families and University professors. Its name, “Ann Arbor Hills,” was aptly chosen for the area’s gentle, rolling hills, which differentiate it from the flatter lands to the west and north of the city. The name not only reflects the geography but also the aspirational sense of suburban comfort prevalent at the time.
Architectural Heritage and Notable Homes
Ann Arbor Hills quickly became a showcase for architect-driven design. Many houses along streets like Arlington Boulevard, Devonshire Road, and Heather Way were custom-built, featuring Colonial Revival, Tudor, and Mid-century Modern styles. These architectural gems were often designed by University of Michigan faculty or renowned local architects such as Robert Metcalf and George Brigham.
Key architectural features you’ll find in the neighborhood include:
- Spacious lots with mature trees
- Homes set back from the street for privacy
- A blend of stone, brick, and wood exteriors
- Large picture windows to bring in natural light
- Winding drives that echo the contours of the land
A particularly notable home is the “Ingalls House” on Heather Way, an early 20th-century estate designed to blend seamlessly with the hillside. The area also boasts mid-century masterpieces, such as several Metcalf-designed residences near Geddes Avenue, which highlight open floor plans and integration with nature.
Landmarks, Parks, and Institutions
Apart from private homes, Ann Arbor Hills has several public spaces and institutions that have contributed to its character:
- Burns Park: While just outside the technical boundaries, this beloved park along Baldwin Avenue is a hub for neighborhood activities and hosts one of the city’s best-known elementary schools, Burns Park Elementary.
- Nichols Arboretum (“The Arb”): Right next to Ann Arbor Hills, this 123-acre natural preserve offers residents not just stunning views and trails, but also a living connection to Ann Arbor’s ecological history.
- Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church: Located on East Stadium Boulevard, this church is both an architectural and spiritual anchor for many residents since its founding in the mid-20th century.
- Angell Elementary School: A cornerstone for families, this historic school has educated generations of Ann Arborites.
The Neighborhood’s Evolution
Ann Arbor Hills' development mirrored Ann Arbor’s growth throughout the 20th century. In its earliest days, the area was semi-rural, with dirt roads and vast, open lots. As postwar prosperity blossomed in the 1950s and ‘60s, more homes filled in the plats while maintaining large, green spaces between them. Property values steadily increased, reflecting both the desirability of the neighborhood and the influence of the University of Michigan staff and Ann Arbor’s growing professional class.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Ann Arbor Hills became a haven for those seeking tranquility without sacrificing proximity to the city’s cultural and academic offerings. While housing styles began to modernize, the neighborhood established strong protections against overdevelopment, thanks to active neighborhood associations and city zoning ordinances. This careful stewardship ensured the area’s leafy, spacious character remained intact.
Streets with Stories
Several streets within Ann Arbor Hills are local icons:
- Devonshire Road: Known for some of the grandest homes and dazzling fall foliage, this street has long been a favorite for trick-or-treaters and joggers alike.
- Arlington Boulevard: Tucked into the central part of the neighborhood, Arlington is a testament to classic American suburban design—tree-lined and bordered with elegant mid-century homes.
- Geddes Avenue: A historic thoroughfare that once marked the city’s far eastern edge, it now connects Ann Arbor Hills to the heart of the city and the iconic Arboretum.
Community Life and Legacy
One of the most cherished aspects of Ann Arbor Hills is its quiet but vibrant community life. Neighborhood association gatherings, block parties, and holiday luminaria line the streets each winter—simple traditions that foster lifelong friendships among neighbors. Many residents are active in preserving the neighborhood’s natural beauty by supporting local parks, planting native gardens, and participating in citywide sustainability initiatives.
Longtime residents often share stories of watching the Michigan Stadium blimp float overhead on game days, family picnics at Nichols Arboretum when the peonies bloom, or sledding down Devonshire’s hills after a fresh snowfall. These shared memories contribute to a strong sense of place that transcends generations.
Conclusion: The Enduring Spirit of Ann Arbor Hills
Ann Arbor Hills remains a living example of how thoughtful planning, architectural creativity, and community spirit can create a place that feels both timeless and ever-evolving. Whether you’re walking beneath the towering oaks of Heather Way or pausing to admire a century-old Tudor home, the story of Ann Arbor Hills is always present—rooted in the landscape, etched into every historic brick, and lived by those who cherish its calm, welcoming atmosphere. For visitors and locals alike, Ann Arbor Hills is more than a neighborhood; it’s a piece of Ann Arbor’s soul.