To the editor, The mission of the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center is to preserve local history and inspire learning to inform and improve our community.
We are a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of the people of Saugatuck and Douglas. The History Center acts as the community’s archive and its collective memory, striving to preserve all aspects of the history of our community.
Some of these images and materials are offensive and difficult. Responsible history requires acknowledging all aspects of our shared past and presenting that history with respect and empathy.
The Commercial Record “Trippin’ Thru Time” feature Aug. 11 using an historical Minstrel Show image from 1929 was not an appropriate use of a hurtful and harmful image from our community’s past. On behalf of our community, the History Center apologizes for the harm done through the circulation of this image.
To learn more about the background of Jim Crow and Minstrelsy, visit Ferris State University’s Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia online at ferris.edu/HTMLS/news/jimcrow/origins.htm
Eric Gollannek SDHS Executive Director
