A map has been shared in recognition of Black History Month. It highlights the locations of African American households, businesses, and domestic servants in Ypsilanti, based on the 1910 Polk’s Directory of Washtenaw County. The map shows that the area between First Avenue and Hamilton was mainly occupied by orchards. Local African Americans worked these orchards.
The map is based on the 1910 directory addresses, and most of the locations are approximate. The 1910 US Census recorded over 450 African Americans living in Ypsilanti, suggesting the black population may have been larger than the directory shows.
The map is interactive, allowing users to explore the different locations. Users can click on any icon to reveal the name and more information about the location. An icon on the top left opens the map in full screen for a detailed view.
This map is a valuable resource for understanding the historical context and contributions of African Americans in Ypsilanti during the early 20th century, especially during Black History Month.