History 4 All: The story of Idlewild, the ‘Black Eden’ of Michigan

Celebrating Black History Month with local stories that matter

In celebration of Black History Month, Local 4 is diving into the rich and trying history of Black Americans, especially right here in Michigan.

In this segment of our History 4 All special, we’re visiting Idlewild on Michigan’s west side: A former summer vacation hotspot for Black Americans before the Civil Rights Movement.

Now, an effort is underway to restore the area and help the community thrive once more.

Watch the full segment in the video player above.


Watch: History 4 All segments


About the Author

Paula Tutman is an Emmy award-winning journalist who came to Local 4 in 1992. She's married and the stepmother of three beautiful and brilliant daughters. Her personal philosophy in life, love and community is, "Do as much as you can possibly do, not as little as you can possibly get away with".

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