Welcome to Idlewild, Michigan, a place of significant historical and cultural importance in the African American community. Established in 1912, Idlewild was one of the few resorts in the United States where African Americans could vacation and purchase property during the era of segregation. Founded by two couples from White Cloud and Chicago, the Idlewild Resort Company set out to create a haven for middle-class and professional Black families, providing them with the freedom to own land and enjoy leisure activities without the constraints of racial discrimination.
Idlewild quickly became known as the ‘Black Eden,’ attracting thousands of visitors each summer. It was a bustling community where African American families, intellectuals, and entertainers could gather and enjoy activities like swimming, boating, fishing, and horseback riding. The area was not only a retreat but a community where many influential figures spent time, including Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, the pioneering surgeon known for performing one of the first successful heart surgeries in 1893.
The community of Idlewild thrived from the 1920s through the early 1960s, hosting a who’s who of Black entertainers such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Aretha Franklin. It served as a cultural and social hub where artists and professionals could connect and inspire one another.
However, with the passing of the Civil Rights Act in 1964, which outlawed segregation, Idlewild’s popularity waned as African Americans gained access to other resorts and leisure destinations across the country. Despite this decline, Idlewild remains an important symbol of African American resilience and entrepreneurship.
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Idlewild, with efforts to preserve its rich history and revitalize the community. The Idlewild Historic and Cultural Center now stands as a testament to its vibrant past, offering visitors a glimpse into the stories and legacy of this unique resort town.
