Orsel and Minnie McGhee House, Civil rights landmark house in Detroit, United States
The Orsel and Minnie McGhee House is a two-story residential building located on Seebaldt Street in Detroit. It displays Craftsman architectural elements including a distinctive roof line, a front porch, and asymmetrical bay window details typical of homes built in that era.
The McGhee family purchased this property in 1944, which triggered a legal case that went to the United States Supreme Court. The 1948 decision invalidated racially restrictive covenants that had prevented Black families from buying homes in many neighborhoods.
This home represents a turning point in African American housing rights and the fight against discriminatory practices in neighborhoods. It shows how legal battles changed where people were allowed to live based on their race.
The property received National Register of Historic Places designation in 2022, ensuring its long-term protection. Visitors can view the building from outside and learn about this significant moment in American civil rights history.
The neighbors who initially opposed the McGhee family's move became friends over time, with the Sipes family staying in the area until 1974. This shift demonstrates how people can change their views when living near those they once rejected.
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