At the height of Jim Crow segregation’s cultural tyranny, Idlewild drew African American tourists and performance artists to its secluded location in Baldwin, Michigan where they could relax and play free from the cancer of racist bigotry. Join Hope College History Professor Fred L. Johnson as he discusses Idlewild’s origins and history as the largest in a system of resorts for African Americans in the early 20th century.

Professor Fred L Johnson III has taught history at Hope College since 2000. His primary field of study is 19 th century US history, specifically the Civil War as well as 20th century US History, US military history, and African history. An award-winning speaker, he is a member of the Michigan chapter of the National Speakers’ Association since 2004. Dr. Johnson holds a BS from Bowie State College, an MA from Kent State University, and MDiv. From Western Theological Seminary, and a PhD from Kent State University