With the removal of Native Americans after 1830 from the area north of the Greenville Treaty Line, settlers rushed to claim the rich lands of northern Shelby County. Among these were the African American pioneers who established Rumley, a thriving farming community. From its founding in 1837 through the 1880s, Rumley served as a major stop for travelers on the post road northward and a haven for hundreds of African American citizens from the slave south. Although Rumley is gone, its influence continues. Dr. Roy E. Finkenbine from Anna, Ohio will lead this presentation. Dr. Finkenbine is Professor of History and department Co-Chair at University of Detroit Mercy and Director of the Black Abolitionist Archive.

Sponsored by Steve and Peggy Baker