DETROIT, MI- The century old Belle Isle Aquarium, designed by famed architect Albert Kahn, has a successful second lease on life.

In 2005, when the city of Detroit fell on hard times, the "oldest continually-operating aquarium in North America" had to close its doors.

One year later the Friends of the Belle Isle Aquarium formed to try to save the historic aquarium. The group merged with 3 other Belle Isle groups to form the non-profit Belle Isle Conservancy.

In 2012 the group was able to re-open the aquarium.

Only 6 tanks were filled but 4,000 people visited on its first day open. The aquarium was only open on Saturdays and run by a staff of passionate volunteers.

One year later the conservancy group, with financial support from foundations, grant money and donations, was able to renovated two skylights. Forty-two tanks operate with over 175 species of fish reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.

Currently open Saturday and Sunday the Belle Isle Aquarium in 2014 saw an average of 2,000 to 3,000 visitors each weekend.

On Saturday the bi-annual koi transfer event was the largest it has ever been according to Belle Isle Conservancy Board Member Vance Patrick who estimated crowds easily over 500.

See photos from Saturday's transfer of the aquarium's koi fish from the inside winter habitat to the outdoor pond.

Future Plans

Renovations continue including a new weathervane that is currently being added atop the aquarium.

The Detroit News reported that the Belle Isle Conservancy group has hired New York-based Biederman Redevelopment Ventures, who redeveloped Bryant Park in Manhattan, for a cultural campus plan study.

"Last month, with financial support from foundations, the state and the conservancy itself, a $110,000 strategic planning process was launched to decide where investments should be made on the 985-acre island managed by the state," according to Detroit News reporter Jennifer Chambers.

History

Construction started in 1902 on the Aquarium and Horticultural Building opening its doors in August 1904.

The Beaux Art style entrance stone facade is adorned with two spitting fish and the emblem of Detroit.

When it opened the Belle Isle Aquarium was "celebrated as the finest aquarium in the world. It was also the third largest aquarium in the world."

Times and Hours

The Belle Isle Aquarium It is open Saturdays & Sundays, 10 am to 4 pm. Free admission and parking.

The horticultural building renamed theAnna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission.

