This Lovely Home Once Belonged to a Real-Life Michigan Gangster

You've heard the expression 'if only these walls could talk.' There's a lot of Michigan history baked into the walls of this home, located in Detroit's historic Palmer Woods residential district.

Gangster Roots

The home once belonged to Joseph Burnstein. Burnstein and his brothers Raymond, Isadore, and Abraham were notorious members of the Purple Gang in the 1920s, reputed for wreaking havoc in the city during Prohibition. According to the Detroit Free Press, the gang was “nearly invincible against law enforcement since witnesses were too terrified to testify in murder and criminal trials.” Even Chicago's Al Capone was said to have made peace with the Purple Gang, buying whiskey from them rather than fighting for territory.

Some Modern Updates

The home has seen some renovations over the years, as the owners have installed all new windows and door-walls. There's a new roof and patio area and its kitchen has been updated with modern-day appliances. There have also been improvements to the home's two chimneys.

A Few Drawbacks

Although there are four full bathrooms and two half baths, it does appear that the bathrooms could use some modernization. And the home is heated with steam (check out the old school radiators in some of the photos) so there is no central air conditioning.

Even if you're not looking to go full-on gangster or even if you're not a fan of The Sopranos, it's fun to scroll through the pictures below. Michigan history oozes from its walls.

More details here.

This Lovely Home Once Belonged to a Real Life Michigan Gangster

You don't have to be a gangster to live in this Detroit home built in 1928, but it could bring peace of mind knowing that your house is 'gangster ready' in the event your life takes an unexpected turn.

According to the Detroit Free Press, this home located in the historic Palmer Woods residential district, once belonged to Joseph Burnstein. Burnstein and his brothers were notorious members of the Purple Gang in the 1920s, reputed for wreaking havoc in the city during Prohibition.

It's listed by Realtor.com for $749,000.

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