Is Windsor Called 'South Detroit'? Debunking the Myth and Exploring Local Identity

Windsor, Ontario, is a vibrant city in Canada that often stands out for its unique cultural identity and distinguishing characteristics. However, some misconceptions persist, particularly the notion that Windsor is sometimes called 'South Detroit.' In this article, we will debunk this myth and explore the true identity of Windsor, Ontario.

Is Windsor Really 'South Detroit'?

Absolutely NOT!!! I have never heard anyone refer to Windsor as 'South Detroit'!! Idk who or why someone would call Windsor 'South Detroit.'

Geographical Facts and Local Identity

As a Windsorite, yes, we are considered south of Detroit but we are a separate city connected by tunnel and bridge. The fact that Windsor is south of Detroit geographically is a geographical fact, but it does not mean that we are part of the greater Detroit metropolitan area. In reality, Windsor is located in Ontario, Canada, distinct from the United States.

The Name 'South Detroit': A Fictionalized Myth

No. Windsor is located south of Detroit geographically but it is not part of the greater Detroit metropolitan area. It is located in Ontario, Canada. The name 'South Detroit' was popularized by the band Journey, but it was fictionalized by Steve Perry. In reality, there never was a 'South Detroit.' It is important to note that the region south of Detroit is made up of many smaller cities, including Dearborn, Allen Park, Lincoln Park, and Southgate. While some have suggested these cities be collectively known as 'South Detroit,' nobody has used this term locally.

My personal experience and the experience of many locals who have lived in southeast Michigan for decades have never heard of 'South Detroit.' In fact, some factors, such as the Detroit River, which acts as a natural north-eastern boundary, play a role in defining our unique identity as residents of a smaller, distinct city within the region.

The Reality of Local Identity

I have never heard Windsor called that. As Jamie Yeats says, the name 'South Detroit' was popularized by the band Journey but the name was fictionalized by Steve Perry. So there never was a 'South Detroit.' We used to have East Detroit but that city renamed itself to Eastpointe so that it would not be confused with its larger neighbor. The region where I live, southwest of Detroit, is made of many smaller cities. It has been suggested before that this area could be collectively known as 'South Detroit' but again, nobody calls it that. Informally, our area is simply known as 'Downriver' because it is downstream along the Detroit River past the downtown region of Detroit/Windsor.

So, here I just tell people I am a Downriver native, and they all know what I mean. This nickname highlights our position relative to Detroit and our unique cultural and social characteristics. It is a term that resonates with locals and serves to distinguish our identity from the often-used misnomer 'South Detroit.'

Conclusion

Windsor, Ontario, has a rich and unique historical and cultural identity that is distinct from the often-misunderstood 'South Detroit.' By clarifying the misconception and emphasizing the geographical reality and our local identity, we aim to provide a more accurate and inclusive representation of this vibrant Canadian city.