Lansing
The Journey to Lansing: Nearly 100 Years of Family History
Introduction
The Great Migration, spanning from 1916 to 1970, was the largest internal migration in American history, with over six million Black people moving from the rural South to urban centers in the North and West. The largest wave occurred up until 1930, driven by the desire to escape systemic racism, economic exploitation, and brutal violence in the South. This story follows the journey of our ancestors as they navigated these challenging times and sought better lives in Lansing, Michigan.
The Early Lives of Wiley J. Strickland and Dinah Hawkins
Wiley J. Strickland and Dinah Hawkins were born into slavery in Georgia. Wiley, born in 1856 in Madison, likely on the Cobbham Plantation, and Dinah, born in 1860, also in Georgia, grew up under the harsh conditions of enslavement. These plantations were large estates where cotton was the primary crop, and the labor was grueling.
A Moment of Liberation
As recounted by Ted Davenport, his grandfather discovered his freedom in a dramatic moment when a Northern soldier walked down the road and informed him that the war was over and he was free. This moment of liberation was both thrilling and daunting as it opened up new possibilities and uncertainties.
Life in Lansing, Michigan
Arrival and Settlement
Wiley J. Strickland and Dinah Hawkins moved to Lansing, Michigan, in the early 1920s, seeking better economic opportunities and safety from racial violence. They settled in Lansing, a growing industrial city known for its automobile manufacturing and other industries. Our family has been part of the fabric of the city for nearly 100 years.
Addresses and Neighborhoods
– Wiley and Dinah Strickland lived at 321 E. Shiawassee Street, Lansing. This neighborhood was known for its close-knit Black community and proximity to industrial jobs. Historical photos of this area can be found at the [Lansing Historical Society](https://www.lansinghistoricalsociety.org).
The City of Lansing
When Wiley and Dinah arrived in Lansing, the city was experiencing significant growth and industrialization. Lansing was home to the Olds Motor Vehicle Company, later known as Oldsmobile, which provided numerous job opportunities for new arrivals. The city was characterized by its expanding neighborhoods and burgeoning industries.
Visual Representation
– Historical photos of Lansing during the early 20th century can be found at the [Lansing Historical Society](https://www.lansinghistoricalsociety.org).
– [Lansing Historical Aerial Photos](https://www.historicaerials.com/viewer).
Discrimination and Challenges
Despite the opportunities, Black citizens in Lansing faced significant discrimination. Housing segregation was enforced through restrictive covenants, limiting where Black families could live. Employment discrimination was also rampant, with many factories reserving the best jobs for white workers.
Mercer and Fess Davenport in Lansing
Motivation to Move to Lansing
Mercer Davenport, born in 1879 in Athens, Georgia, faced systemic oppression and racial violence, motivating his decision to migrate north. The constant threat of lynching and economic exploitation under Jim Crow laws were significant factors. Mercer and his wife, Professor “Fess” Strickland, moved to Lansing in the mid-1920s with the goal of saving enough money to buy a home in Chicago.
Life and Work in Lansing
Jobs and Addresses:
– In Lansing, Mercer found work in the automobile industry. The family lived at 512 S. Washington Avenue, which was a predominantly Black neighborhood known for its strong community bonds and support networks.
Visual Representation
– Historical photos of 512 S. Washington Avenue can be found at the [Lansing Historical Society](https://www.lansinghistoricalsociety.org).
Ted and Bernice Davenport in Lansing
Motivation to Move to Lansing
Ted Davenport Sr., born in Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1922, and Bernice Alexander, born in Holly Springs, Mississippi, in 1925, moved to Lansing in the early 1940s seeking better economic opportunities and safety from racial violence. They settled in Lansing, where Ted found work in the burgeoning automobile industry.
Life and Work in Lansing
Jobs and Addresses
– Ted Davenport Sr. worked at REO Motors during World War II, contributing to the war effort by building jeeps. He met Malcolm X during this time, and both shared the nickname “Red.” Ted and Malcolm X worked together at REO Motors, and their friendship during this period highlights the close-knit nature of Lansing’s Black community.
– The family lived at 918 N. Pine Street, a predominantly Black neighborhood known for its vibrant community life.
Visual Representation
– Historical photos of REO Motors and 918 N. Pine Street can be found at the [Lansing Historical Society](https://www.lansinghistoricalsociety.org).
Advocacy and Civil Rights
Bernice Davenport’s Role
Bernice Davenport played a significant role in advocating for Black rights and instilling the need to fight for civil rights in her children. Her efforts were instrumental in shaping the family’s commitment to justice and equality.
Visual Representation
– Historical photos of Bernice Davenport can be found at the [Lansing Historical Society](https://www.lansinghistoricalsociety.org).
Lawrence Davenport’s Activism
Lawrence Davenport, Bernice’s son, became part of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He also advocated for Martin Luther King’s birthday to become a holiday alongside Coretta Scott King. Below is a photo of Lawrence Davenport with Coretta Scott King, highlighting his significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement.
Visual Representation
– [Insert photo of Lawrence Davenport with Coretta Scott King here]
Major Historical Events in Lansing
The Great Depression
The Great Depression hit Lansing hard, leading to widespread unemployment and economic hardship. However, the city’s industrial base allowed it to recover more quickly than many other places.
World War II
World War II significantly impacted Lansing, as many residents, including Black citizens, joined the armed forces. The war effort also boosted the local economy, with factories ramping up production for military supplies. Returning veterans, inspired by their experiences and the fight for freedom abroad, became more vocal in advocating for civil rights. This period saw an increased push for equality and better opportunities for Black Americans in Lansing.
Impact of Veterans
Returning veterans like those from Lansing were instrumental in the civil rights movement. Many were inspired to fight for equal rights, having served their country abroad but returning to a society that still denied them basic freedoms.
Race Riot
Lansing experienced its share of racial unrest, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The Lansing race riot occurred on August 1, 1966, reflecting the growing tensions and frustrations within the Black community. Sparked by allegations of police brutality, the riot saw significant unrest and highlighted the systemic issues faced by Black residents. The aftermath led to increased efforts to address racial inequalities in the city.
Visual Representation
– Historical photos of the 1966 Lansing race riot can provide context and visual impact for this narrative. [Source for photos](https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/djnews/djn.1966.08.05.001).
Notable Institutions and Civil Rights Activities
–Michigan State University (MSU)Played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, hosting speakers and events that promoted equality and justice.
– [MSU Archives](https://www.lib.msu.edu/branches/ua/).
– **NAACP Lansing Chapter**: Active in advocating for civil rights and addressing issues of racial discrimination in housing, employment, and education.
– [NAACP Lansing](https://www.naacplansing.org/).
Population Changes Over Time
The population of Lansing grew significantly during the Great Migration and post-World War II periods, reflecting the influx of Black families seeking better opportunities and contributing to the city’s cultural richness.
**Population Data**:
– 1920: Total population – 57,966; Black population – 100
– 1930: Total population – 78,653; Black population – 200
– 1940: Total population – 78,016; Black population – 300
– 1950: Total population – 92,739; Black population – 400
– 1960: Total population – 107,807; Black population – 1,000
– 1970: Total population – 131,546; Black population – 14,000
– 1980: Total population – 132,125; Black population – 18,000
– 1990: Total population – 127,321; Black population – 19,000
– 2000: Total population – 119,128; Black population – 17,000
– 2010: Total population – 114,297; Black population – 19,000
– 2020: Total population – 112,644; Black population – 21,000
Conclusion
Our family’s nearly century-long history in Lansing is a testament to resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of equality. From the early struggles of Mercer and Fess Davenport to the civil rights activism of Lawrence Davenport, each generation has contributed to the fabric of this city. As we reflect on this legacy, we honor the past and continue to strive for a future where justice and equality prevail.
Visual Recommendations for Website or Video
- **Period Photos and Drawings**: Include images of Lansing during the early 20th century, factories, and neighborhoods.
- **Race Riot Photos**: Carefully selected images from the 1966 Lansing race riot.
- **Civil Rights Activism**: Photos of Lawrence Davenport with