New Grant Aims to Preserve African American History in Michigan
In an exciting development for historical preservation, the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has been granted $90,000 from the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Historic Preservation Fund. This funding is set to support efforts to highlight and preserve historically underrepresented communities, with a specific focus on Woodland Park in Michigan.
The grant will facilitate the hiring of a preservation consultant to conduct a comprehensive survey of about 200 properties in Woodland Park. This survey will cover various types of structures, including residential homes, resort complexes, and hotels, as well as significant landscape features. The ultimate goal is to nominate Woodland Park as a historic district for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), under a thematic listing that recognizes African American Recreational Tourism in Michigan.
“This grant will allow the SHPO to continue broadening Michigan’s historical narrative so it more fully reflects the diversity of our state’s history,” said State Historic Preservation Officer Ryan Schumaker. Schumaker emphasized the importance of elevating Woodland Park’s story within the broader context of African American recreational tourism in the region.
Woodland Park, located in Merrill Township, Newaygo County, is a notable African American resort community dating back to the early 20th century. Established in 1921 by Marion and Ella Auther, it served as a refuge for Black vacationers who faced discrimination at other resorts. Though it experienced decline after civil rights advancements in the 1960s, some of its original structures, like the Kelsonia Inn, remain as testaments to its rich history.
“Preserving our nation’s history is about honoring the people, events, and cultures that shaped who we are,” stated Jessica Bowron, NPS Comptroller on behalf of the Director. This grant is part of a broader effort to empower communities to celebrate their heritage and ensure future generations can connect with these significant historical narratives.
Ziyadah Shakir of the Woodland Park Work Group expressed excitement about the grant, noting it will significantly aid in preserving the community’s history and culture. “This grant will support our efforts to preserve Woodland Park’s history, culture, and heritage. Through this project we will seek to strengthen the recognition of our place in African American history,” Shakir remarked.
The project is among 18 initiatives funded nationwide under the Underrepresented Communities Program. The Michigan SHPO’s latest grant continues its mission to highlight and safeguard sites linked to historically marginalized communities. For further information on SHPO’s statewide efforts, visit here.
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