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 6 of 20

Paradise Lake


Listen to the Story
Narrated by Chris J. Grier, Historian & Yates Township Supervisor
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Paradise Lake

Paradise Lake became the setting for one of Idlewild’s most important business and entertainment districts. Herman and Lela Wilson developed Paradise Gardens nearby, creating lodging, commercial spaces and the legendary Paradise Club. The lake remains part of the natural landscape that made Idlewild both a retreat and a place where Black entrepreneurship could flourish.

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