During the first half of the 20th century, Idlewild, Michigan was one of the few resort communities in the country where Black people were allowed to vacation and purchase property, before discrimination was outlawed in 1964. It became known as “Black Eden,” and between the ’40s and early ’60s, nearly 30,000 visitors would visit each summer.
The community offered swimming, boating, summer activities, sports, and an active nightlife, including the Paradise Club and Flamingo Lounge, pictured here. Today, many of the remaining homes and motels are abandoned. One of the most popular hotels in the area was called the Casa Blanca Hotel and is in the midst of renovations after being abandoned for decades. Source
The current community living there is small but determined to bring more life into their beloved Idlewild. Many are working towards revitalizing this area, including Deborah O. Haugabook, who purchased 38 acres of land to turn it into a campground.
