Customer Reviews

Black Eden: The Idlewild Community (Michigan)

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This book brings forth information on another aspect of African American history that has been overlooked. When most people talk about Blacks and Michigan, they automatically think of Detroit. This is a very narrow view. Drs. Walker and Wilson have written other books on the Black presence in the Great Lakes State and "Black Eden" is another chapter in the ever-evolving story. Besides some technical information that many people might find useless, the story of Idlewild involves many famous African Americans. W.E.B. Du Bois, Daniel Hale Williams, and Madam C. J. Walker all vacationed at this resort; some even owned land there. Often referred to as the Apollo of Michigan, Idlewild showcased the best in Black talent. Segregation allowed the venue to be a staple on the now renowned "chitlin curcuit". Integration took some, if not all, of that away.
"Black Eden" is also the story of regular, hardworking Black folk who would pack up the car and take the family on a weekend of fun and relaxation at the beach. Part of it is a people's history. Part of it is the rise of the Black celebrity. I believe that this book has a place on any bookshelf.

I enjoyed the book and all of the information in the book, I love history and this book gave me the knowledge, new information, understanding and insight into this resort town. Thanks