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Afro-American Journal and Directory

Kalamazoo, Michigan. 1894


Rev. John L. Davis, c.1894

Published by Rev. John L. Davis of Kalamazoo, this 48-page Afro-American Journal and Directory was printed by The Kalamazoo Publishing Company in 1894 to celebrate and promote African American history and commerce in the Kalamazoo community. The booklet features brief written sketches about prominent local African American leaders, churches and organizations, plus many noteworthy advertisements for local merchants.

“Directory of Afro-American Citizens”

The booklet also includes the names and addresses of 460 African Americans who lived in Kalamazoo and surrounding communities at the time of publication (433 in Kalamazoo; 27 in Oshtemo, Cooper, Comstock and Schoolcraft townships).

Afro-American Journal and Directory, Kalamazoo, Michigan, 1894. Courtesy, Western Michigan University Archives and Local History Collections

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