Detroit Sound Conservancy Reconnaissance Survey

A reconnaissance survey provides a preliminary evaluation of whether a site could meet the criteria for inclusion in the national park system. Reconnaissance surveys examine the issues of national significance, suitability, feasibility, and level of National Park Service management required, and determine if further evaluation through a special resource study is warranted. This reconnaissance survey evaluates two sites in Detroit, Michigan, associated with the Detroit Sound Conservancy: The Blue Bird Inn and United Sound Systems Recording Studios. The survey was undertaken in response to a request from Michigan 14th District Representative Brenda Lawrence in November 2018.

The Blue Bird Inn was one of the most popular jazz clubs in Detroit from the 1940s through the 1960s. United Sound Systems Recording Studios was one of the city's first major independent recording studios, producing nationally known music from the late 1940s through the 1980s. This study concluded that the Blue Bird Inn and United Sound Systems Recording Studios are not likely to meet established criteria for inclusion as an affiliated area of the national park system. The National Park Service does not recommend further study at this time.

Please click on the "Document List" tab at left to access the reconnsaissance survey and original request letter.

Contact Information

Tokey Boswell
Planning and Compliance Division
Omaha, NE
402-661-1534