The McNeal Estate is located near Hickory Grove and Lasher Roads in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Howard McNeal was a physician and his wife Ruth, was an artist and a painter. They had to purchase one very large lot during the 1940's just to be allowed to move into this com- munity. Later, this lot was subdivided into smaller lots and sold to other Black professionals from the area. These professionals had to build their house in a certain way to retain its upscale status. Noted Pontiac attorney Elbert Hatchett lives in this community. This is a fine and beautiful residential area of African-American families. This community is basically unknown to the general public. A lecture by Professor James Wilson is available. He can explain the untold history of the area. Another unique area in Michigan is the resort town of Idlewild. This was an African-American resort community during the 1940's, 1950's and 1960's. Dr. Reginald Lame is currently completing re- search on this area of African- American history. |
