James Scott fountain in Detroit

James Scott fountain

The James Scott fountain on Belle Isle is an excellent example of the many unknown treasures of Detroit. Located on Belle Isle, the fountain's marble facade becomes visible to travelers as they head west on the island from the MacArthur Bridge.

Created from a $500,000 bequest to the city from its infamous bachelor, James Scott, the gorgeous marble piece was designed by Cass Gilbert, the man also responsible for designing the main branch of the Detroit Public Library.

The James Scott fountain was completed in 1925 and is truly one of Detroit's most beautiful pieces of history. The fountain was constructed purely of white marble and contains several small bowls suspended over the fountain itself. Small statues depicting turtles, lions, the greek God, Neptune, and cherubs were created and intricatly placed at different places throughout the piece's structure.


Lions and cherubs adorn the top tiers of the fountain