DEARBORN, Mich. – Greenfield Village is set to welcome visitors for a new season, showcasing an exciting, immersive exhibit currently under construction. This project marks the first major home purchase in 40 years and pays tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a family that played a significant role in his life.
The historic home, now located in Dearborn, is undergoing restoration to bring it back to its former glory.
Amber Mitchell, curator of Black History, shared that Dr. Sullivan and Richie Jean Sherritt Jackson opened the doors of their home to their close friend, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. King stayed in the home in Selma, Alabama, during pivotal moments of the civil rights movement. Now, more than 8,000 artifacts will be restored, preserving an important chapter in American history.
“We’re doing this really interesting historical detective work to figure out where things were in these spaces and what life looked like for this family and the people they welcomed through their doors in 1965,” Mitchell said. “So we’re pulling back layers.”
The 2,000-square-foot home features four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Built in 1919, the property was meticulously documented.
“All these people being right here gives you goosebumps. There’s a real power in place,” Mitchell added. “You’re seeing the photos, artifacts, and hearing their story, and we’re able to do that here.”
Greenfield Village is a fitting location for this project.
“It’s our most modern house,” Mitchell noted. “From a historical perspective, it is our most modern house.”
From 1910 through 1970, six million Black people moved from the South to the North, a period known as the Great Migration. Many who settled in Detroit were motivated by opportunities in the auto industry.
“I would argue that most people coming to the Detroit area were African Americans from the South, specifically thinking about Henry Ford and his idea of $5 a day for equal work,” Mitchell explained.
The multi-million dollar project is expected to open next spring.
“I would encourage anybody inspired by this story to continue researching and learning more about the work we’re doing,” Mitchell said. “Consider donating your time or money to help us preserve these important pieces of history for future generations.”
Greenfield Village will open its doors for the season on April 12, allowing visitors to check out the progress of this significant project for themselves.
