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 10 of 20

The Flamingo

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

Opened by Detroit hotelier Phil Giles in the 1950s, the Flamingo became one of Idlewild’s signature nightspots on Williams Island. Music, dancing and live entertainment drew visitors from across the Midwest and helped earn Idlewild its reputation as the “Summer Apollo of Michigan.” The club stood at the center of an entertainment culture created for Black audiences during segregation.

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