Howard Johnson’s, Ann Arbor, Michigan 1951

This authentic 1950s color photograph, captured in 1951, documents the classic exterior of the Howard Johnson’s restaurant and motor lodge in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The archival image showcases the brand’s iconic mid-century architectural identity, including the distinctive orange-tiled roof, white clapboard siding, and a prominent central cupola topped with a decorative weather vane featuring the “Simple Simon and the Pieman” logo. The building features large multi-pane windows with blue shutters and a formal gabled entrance. Parked in the gravel lot in the foreground is an impressive lineup of period-correct American automobiles, including several dark blue and grey Buick, Pontiac, and Chevrolet models from the late 1940s and early 1950s. At this time, Howard Johnson’s was the largest restaurant chain in the United States, serving as a staple for post-war travelers. While this specific location is no longer standing in its original form, having been replaced or extensively remodeled as the Ann Arbor hospitality landscape evolved, the Howard Johnson’s brand remains a significant piece of American roadside history. This factual record preserves the pristine, “Landmark for Hungry Americans” aesthetic during the early fifties. All our images are available as royalty-free instant downloads for use in books, media, and creative projects – or make your own prints for home, work, or as a truly unique gift.