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 9 of 20

Robert H. Riffe Youth Center / ILOA


Listen to the Story
Narrated by Chris J. Grier, Historian & Yates Township Supervisor
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Robert H. Riffe Youth Center / ILOA

The Idlewild Lot Owners Association has helped shape community life for more than a century through civic improvement, fellowship, cultural programs and youth activities. After a donation of land and cash from the widow Margaret Riffe in 1954, the organization developed youth programming here, and the Robert H. Riffe Youth Center opened around 1962. It remains a symbol of investment in Idlewild’s next generation.

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