Detroit residents collect historic neighborhood stories for signage along the Joe Louis Greenway

10 new interpretive signs featuring history of Midwest-Tireman neighborhood installed along the first segment of the Joe Louis Greenway (W. Warren Ave. to Joy Rd.)
Project was inspired by residents wanting JLG visitors to know more about their neighborhood
Four residents collected oral histories that translated into signage
Project completely funded by $45,000 Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan grant

There are now 10 interpretive signs along the first segment of the Joe Louis Greenway (JLG) to guide visitors through the history of the Midwest-Tireman neighborhood, also known as “The Old Westside.” The signs are located between West Warren Avenue and Joy Road, with the first sign, "History of this Community,” located at the Warren Gateway Park. This project, funded by Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, was inspired by residents’ desire to give JLG visitors an introduction to their neighborhood.

Four neighborhood residents: Alesia Brown, LaManda Matthews, Carolyn Pruitt, and Karen Walker worked as story gatherers for the project. Through interviews, the group collected oral histories from long-term residents in the community and supported the design process. The story gatherers were given a stipend of $500 for their contributions to the project.

Historic neighborhood stories pic1 — Left to right: Karen Walker (storygatherer and resident), LaManda Matthews (storygatherer and resident), Idrees Mutahr (Joe Louis Greenway project manager), Alesia Brown (storygatherer and resident).

“These stories are not mere recounts of the past; they are vital lifelines that connect generations, offering lessons and inspiration. They ensure that every voice is heard and valued, helping to guide our collective steps toward a future where our actions are informed by the hard-earned wisdom of those who walked before us,” said LaManda Matthews, story gatherer and executive director of Greenway Heritage Conservancy. “In this way, storytelling is not just an act of preservation; it's a profound act of community building and an essential tool for social change. Projects like the Joe Louis Greenway Neighborhood Stories bring to life the rich tapestry of our community's history and its enduring spirit.”

Ten themes were identified based on the oral histories that were collected and turned into signage by design firm Good Done Daily. The 10 themes are as follows, History of this Community, Migration from the South to the West Side, Civil Rights and the Orsel McGhee House, The Arts, The Era of Forgotten Neighborhoods, Homeownership and the Local Economy, The Detroit Terminal Railroad, Churches and Faith Leaders, Recreational Roots, It takes a Village.

Historic neighborhood stories pic2 — 1 of 10 Neighborhood Story signs, Recreational Roots.

“The Joe Louis Greenway is more than just a pathway; it’s a living connection to the rich history and vibrant stories of our community,” Leona Medley, Executive Director, Joe Louis Greenway Partnership said. "I’m honored to celebrate the unveiling of these interpretive signs, which capture the essence of the Midwest-Tireman neighborhood and the voices of its residents. This project is a testament to the power of preserving our heritage for future generations.”

This project cost $45,000 and was completely paid for by a grant from the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan Michigan's Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy funds.

"Parks, trails, and greenways almost always exist in communities of people, whose voices are rarely present in the experience of those places,” said Greg Yankee, associate vice president of Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. The Community Foundation is excited to support amplifying community voices and sharing stories that celebrate the richness of Detroit’s diverse history.”

The Greenway Heritage Conservancy is the local organization that facilitated the story gatherer selection process. The Detroit Historical Society provided guidance and equipment support for residents collecting oral histories.

“The fascinating aspect of these neighborhood stories is the connection of the past (the history of the neighborhood) to the present (the JLG),” says Crystal Perkins, director of the City of Detroit General Services Department. “These stories are powerful tools for conveying complex history, emotions, and messages in a way that will resonate with JLG visitors who stop to read these signs.”

About Joe Louis Greenway

Joe Louis Greenway (JLG) is a 30-mile regional greenway connecting 23 Detroit neighborhoods to three cities: Dearborn, Hamtramck, Highland Park.

About Joe Louis Greenway Partnership

The Joe Louis Greenway Partnership is a 501C3 organization whose purpose is making the JLG a space that celebrates the strength and resilience of its surrounding communities through inclusive programming, ongoing beautification, and intentional community engagement.

Historic neighborhood stories pic3 — Left to right: Leona Medley (executive director of JLG Partnership), Karen Walker (story gatherer), Alesia Brown (story gatherer), LaManda Matthews (story gatherer), Greg Yankee (Assoc. VP of Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan), Crystal Perkins (Director of City of Detroit General Services Department), Idrees Muthar (JLG project manager), and Jamon Jordan (City of Detroit Historian).

Historic neighborhood stories pic4 — Jamon Jordan (City of Detroit Historian) gives remarks during program.

Historic neighborhood stories pic5 — LaManda Matthews (storygatherer and resident) gives remarks during program.

Historic neighborhood stories pic6 — Leona Medley (executive director of JLG Partnership) gives opening remarks.