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Local History

African American Newspapers

Chronicling Everyday Life

In addition to Kalamazoo’s principal newspapers (The Kalamazoo Gazette and The Kalamazoo Telegraph [1844-1916]), everyday life of black Kalamazoo residents during the 1960s and 70’s was chronicled and archived by several locally-published newspapers. These publications hold indispensable histories that draw attention to the richness of African American life in Kalamazoo. Not only do the headlines suggest that Kalamazoo African Americans were actively engaged with issues central to the civil rights movement (housing, employment, education e.g.), but so too, the daily stories that shone light upon social gatherings, student achievement, employment opportunities, recreational activities, visiting speakers, athletic events, entertainment, church happenings, and so much more. KPL hopes to be able to offer these valuable resources of the past in a digital format over the coming years.

Focus and Focus News

  • Local History Room holdings: Microfilm only (10 June 1965–November 1972)
  • Western Michigan University Archives holdings: Digital Access
  • Central Michigan University holdings: Digital Access

Community Courier

  • Local History Room holdings: Microfilm only (25 May 1972–14 December 1974)

Kalamazoo Weekly Star

  • Local History Room holdings: Microfilm only (18 June 1963–17 July 1965)

Kalamazoo Ledger

  • Local History Room holdings: Microfilm only (6 January 1968–18 December 1971)

 

Compiled by Ryan Gage, Kalamazoo Public Library staff, March 2023