Detroit Memorial Park, Michigan’s first Black-owned cemetery and oldest African American corporation, marked its centennial anniversary this weekend. The cemetery was established in 1925 to provide a burial ground free from racial discrimination.
A centennial celebration was held in Pontiac on Saturday night, honoring the park’s legacy and its century of service to the community.
Historical Context
In 1925, a group of African American funeral directors formed Detroit Memorial Park in Warren. The establishment addressed a critical need for Black individuals facing discrimination in existing cemeteries. Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II described the founding as “an inspiring story of a group of men coming together to solve a challenge of people not having access.”
Continued Significance
For many years, Detroit Memorial Park served as a vital resource for the Black community, experiencing high burial rates until the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. Wilbur Hughes, CEO of Detroit Memorial Park and grandson of an initial investor, noted that while options have expanded, the cemetery continues to be a place of significance.
Concurrent Centennial Celebration
The celebration coincided with the recognition of the James H. Cole Home for Funerals of Detroit, the oldest Black-owned business in Michigan, which marked its centennial in 2019. Antonio Green, vice president of the James H. Cole Home for Funerals, acknowledged the rarity of such longevity for Black-owned businesses.
Recent Improvements
In preparation for the centennial, Detroit Memorial Park underwent beautification and infrastructure improvements. Records have also been digitized to enhance accessibility for families and researchers, ensuring the preservation of the cemetery’s history.
