02/23/2026
February is Black History Month. First celebrated in 1970 and officially recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976 during the U.S. Bicentennial, he urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
With those words in mind, we invite you to explore the little-known history of Black homesteaders in Leelanau County.
Ongoing research into early Black settlers continues to uncover local stories. This work seeks to restore names, context, and dignity — including that of Alexander Smith, who appeared in early accounts only under a racial slur rather than his proper name.
LHS is deeply grateful to the many researchers who have contributed their time, and especially to Andrew White, local historian, author, and LHS board member, who researched and wrote this blog.
Read more here:
🔗 https://www.leelanauhistory.org/black-homesteaders-in-leelanau-county/
Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the blog for additional learning opportunities.
Black History Month, observed in February, was first celebrated in 1970. It was officially recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976 as part of the United States Bicen…
