As part of Governor Jennifer M. Granholm's Idlewild, Michigan Transformation Initiative, the Michigan Historical Commission will dedicate five Michigan Historical Markers in the Lake County resort community on Saturday, Aug. 29.

The five markers include one that provides a historical overview of Idlewild; one for Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, a prominent surgeon; one for Herman and Lela Wilson, who were among Idlewild's early developers; another for the Island and the Flamingo Club, the center of Idlewild life; and a marker for the Idlewild Lot Owners Association, which was responsible for public improvement projects and activities in the resort.

"These official state historical markers send a powerful message about the value and importance of Idlewild," said Governor Granholm.  "These are stories that deserve to be shared with future generations, building an awareness and appreciation of the revitalization efforts surrounding one of our state's most treasured cultural assets."

Michigan's State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), with the assistance of a federal Preserve America grant, initiated the survey of properties in the African American resort in order to erect five historical markers and expand the existing National Register of Historic Places historic district.

"Idlewild is a one-of-a-kind community that, from its founding in 1915 into the mid-1960s, played an important role in the lives of middle-class African Americans from Detroit, Cleveland, Chicago and many other cities," said State Historic Preservation Officer Brian Conway. 

"These markers tell the story of Idlewild's rich history and vital past," Conway noted, "and will raise awareness about the importance of preserving this unique community and its historic structures and landscape."

Established in 1915, Idlewild was a major resort for African Americans at a time when segregationist policies prohibited them from vacationing anywhere they might have liked to go.  During the early years the resort offered an array of summer recreation opportunities, and later grew as a center for nightlife with nightclubs that featured nationally known black entertainers.

Michigan Historical Commissioners Lamont Corbin of Detroit and Tom Truscott of Lansing will present the markers to community members.  People will gather for the first unveiling at 10 a.m. at the corner of US-10 and Broadway, where the marker titled "Idlewild" will stand. The four additional markers will be dedicated in the following order:

• Idlewild Lot Owners Association
• Herman and Lela Wilson House
• Dr. Daniel Hale Williams House
• Williams Island and the Flamingo Club

These Michigan Historical Markers and the nomination for the National Register of Historic Places (which will be considered in September) are part of Governor Granholm's Idlewild, Michigan Transformation Initiative, which began in December 2007.  The initiative's goal is to leverage the community's unique cultural and historic strengths so it can attract new investment and stimulate economic growth.  The Department of History, Arts and Libraries has led the effort by collaborating with other state departments to assist Yates Township in its efforts to revitalize Idlewild.  Learn more at www.michigan.gov/idlewild .

Since the Michigan Historical Marker program began in 1955, more than 1,500 official historical markers have been erected.  "Traveling Through Time: A Guide to Michigan's Historical Markers" contains the text and locations of state markers.  It is available anywhere books are sold or by calling (517) 373-1663.  To learn more about the marker program and registered historic sites, visit www.michigan.gov/shpo.

The marker program is administered by the State Historic Preservation Office, a division of the Michigan Historical Center, part of the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.  Dedicated to enriching quality of life and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural creativity, the department also includes the Library of Michigan, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.  Learn more at www.michigan.gov/hal.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries.