Idlewild - Michigan Day Trip
A Michigan day trip to Idlewild is a journey back in time. In Lake County, Michigan, there is a small town with a most unusual history. Idlewild enjoyed explosive growth and popularity, nearly became a ghost town, and is on the rise again. This was the first free black community in Michigan. At its peak, Idlewild had become the premier resort destination, for African Americans in the Midwest. The town was built by and for African Americans, and every possible amenity was at hand. In the 1920's, this town became home to the black middle class and a destination for everyone. In the summer season the population would grow to 3,000+. From the 1920's through the 1940's, Idlewild hosted the biggest names in entertainment. The famous performers at the theater included Calloway, Ellington, Armstrong, and Hampton. There was another resident who shouldn't be forgotten. Dr. Daniel Williams lived there. He was the first person to operate on a human heart.
Idlewild was one of only a few resorts in the country where African Americans were allowed to vacation and purchase property. When the 1964 Civil Rights Act opened other resorts to African Americans, Idlewild's boomtown period subsided but the community continues to be an important heritage landmark. Most of the old homes are abandoned now, the original downtown is pretty much empty. The bathhouse and the famous 60 room hotel that were on the island in the lake are gone as well. The Flamingo Club is closed. However, there are signs of renewed interest and growth. A new community center has opened, a walking tour has been established, and the museum is welcoming visitors. Each year the Idlewild Music Festival celebrates the history that was made here.
Idlewild is on Route 10 just a few miles east of Baldwin. There are cool shops nearby in Baldwin and Bitely.
Idlewild is an historic destination on the back roads of Michigan.