Idlewild
Deonna Todd Green
c2000
Remus, Mecosta County, Michigan
Cotton with polyester filling
77” x 76”
MSUM 2000:67.1
Photo by Mary Whalen, all rights reserved Michigan State University Museum

Idlewild, located in rural northwestern Michigan, holds a special place in the nation's segregated history. For many years, this "Black Eden" was one of only a few resorts in the country where African-Americans could vacation and purchase property. From 1912 through the mid-1960s, Idlewild was an active year-round community and was visited by well-known entertainers and professionals from throughout the country. At its peak it was the most popular resort in the Midwest and as many as 25,000 would come to Idlewild in the height of the summer season to enjoy camping, swimming, boating, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, roller skating and night-time entertainment. When the 1964 Civil Rights Act opened up other resorts to African-Americans, Idlewild's boomtown period subsided but the community continues to be an important place for vacationers and retirees. Idlewild also holds special meaning as a place for younger generations of African-Americans seeking to learn about their heritage.

Deonna Green’s quilt commemorates Idlewild. The embroidered blocks tell the story of Idlewild, including depictions of historical buildings, the names of entertainers who performed in Idlewild, and portraits of famous residents and visitors. Green was awarded a Michigan Heritage Award for her work as a quilter and teacher in 1995.