Idlewild Heritage Trail by Merrell
This is a proposed heritage trail preserving the stories of the people, places, businesses, and landmarks that shaped Idlewild. The Black Footwear Forum brings it to Detroit as an example of what's to come; the real trail will be in Idlewild and will grow well beyond the 20 stops.
Stop 8 of 20

Morton’s Motel


Listen to the Story
Narrated by Chris J. Grier, Historian & Yates Township Supervisor
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Morton’s Motel

Morton’s Motel is a surviving example of Idlewild’s long tradition of Black travel, hospitality and community preservation. When the property faced a sale that could have removed it from its historic community purpose, a group of Idlewilders pooled resources to keep it locally connected. Today it remains a place for lodging, events, reunions and community activity.

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