Ypsilanti-- The twin cities?

Ypsilanti has always struck me as a little unique in that it has two separate and distinct nineteenth century business districts-- especially considering the size of the town. I have learned over time how this came about: First the stage coach route through Michigan ave, and then later the ascendence of depot town with the coming of the railroad. It interests the armchair historian inside me how everything is always in a state of flux in regards to these two "downtowns"-- I mean first there was Ypsilanti (after Woodruff's Grove--as some of you know ;) ) on top of the hill on Mich. Ave., then came the depot, and I imagine there was a slight swing in the local economy as the railroad took center stage, and then back again as railroading declined (trust me, those who aren't from around here originally: In the seventies, an evening stroll wasn't something you did on Cross street in the depot!). Yes, judging from some photos of Mich. Ave from the 60's and 70's, commerce looked healthy on the "Ave" (who remembers the always busy Arlan's dept. store from then?). Now of course, it's swung the other way: the depot is an oasis of economic health, while the Avenue is struggling to maintain the few solid businesses it has (bile rises as thoughts of Water street form in my mind-- but ahh, it's late. Not now. Not now.). It's late now, time to pitch the tent. I'll have to read up on how to post links and photos here........ Rob