The iconic Post 1 P.L.A.V. building, located at 3105 Holbrook Street, has been sold for $441,500, significantly lower than its original asking price of $750,000. Built in 1925 by World War I veterans, this landmark has served as a home for the Polish Legion of American Veterans (PLAV) since its inception, making it an integral part of the city’s heritage.
The sale marks a significant transition for this historic site, which was previously purchased by the Hamtramck Historical Commission after they received a Cool Cities grant on September 18, 2013. Shortly thereafter, the Commission sold the building to Village Homes Detroit LLC on October 2, 2013. The most recent buyer, Milo Reed Madole, acquired the property on March 18, 2025.
Although the commission’s initial vision for the building involved establishing a hub for the Hamtramck Historical Museum, plans did not materialize as intended. The urgency to move to a new site was heightened after discovering the extensive repairs needed to comply with safety codes were prohibitively expensive. Consequently, the Commission opted to sell the building to reinvest in a more feasible location.
In light of its past, this sale evokes mixed feelings within the community. While it represents a new chapter for the building and its future owners, it also highlights the challenges faced by historical preservation efforts in Hamtramck, where much of the city’s heritage remains at risk of being forgotten.
The narrative of the building continues, but its journey underscores the ongoing struggle to celebrate and preserve Hamtramck’s rich and diverse history.
Reflection from 2013: Hamtramck Historical Commission’s Aspirations
Years ago, the Hamtramck Historical Commission envisioned a dynamic space for a historical museum that would honor the city’s multicultural past and present. The aspiration was tied closely to the purchase of the former PLAV Post, seen as a stepping stone to creating a vibrant gathering place for community engagement.
Plans detailed an inclusive museum experience featuring workshops, exhibitions, and events aimed at bridging the cultural landscape of Hamtramck. Unfortunately, the financial realities of renovating the historical building thwarted these dreams, leading to the decision to sell the property.
As the city navigates this transition, the community remains hopeful that future initiatives will honor Hamtramck’s rich tapestry of history while ensuring that all voices within the city are celebrated and represented.
