Idlewild, Historic African-American resort community in Lake County, Michigan.
Idlewild is a historic community in Lake County, Michigan, surrounded by forest and lakes that offer public beach access and the headwaters of the Pere Marquette River. The site features multiple bodies of water for swimming and recreation, with the river flowing through forested terrain.
The community was founded in 1912 by four land developers and quickly became a vacation destination for African Americans during segregation. It drew up to 25,000 visitors each summer and served as a place of hope and community during a time of legal inequality.
Jazz musicians like Count Basie and Aretha Franklin performed in the local clubs during the community's heyday, drawing people from across the region to gather and celebrate. These performances shaped how people connected with each other and made the place a cultural hub for African American visitors.
The Idlewild Historic and Cultural Center displays exhibits and historical artifacts from the community's active years, opening during the warmer months. The center provides insight into the lives and stories of those who visited and lived here.
Early residents included prominent African American figures like Dr. Daniel Hale Williams and W.E.B. DuBois, who owned land here and demonstrated their commitment to the place. Their presence made Idlewild a refuge for people seeking space where they could be themselves.
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