(Michigan City, IN) - The new mayor of Michigan City has issued her first proclamation, which honors the life and legacy of late historian Allen Williams.

 

Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch called Williams, who passed away on December 16th at 76 years old, a “figurehead as a historian for the African American community in Michigan City and La Porte County.”

 

 

“His Black History Month exhibit shows the tremendous impact he had on this community in providing that resource to not just students but adults as well,” she said.

 

Deuitch said Williams spent decades gathering a vast collection of news articles, books, movies, art, clothing, tools, and other items that he fashioned into an in-depth and educational exhibit that opened to the public each year around Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

 

She said his retelling of King’s history and impact had its place in the exhibit, but most of Williams’ work highlighted contributions from other black leaders, innovators, humanitarians, and others from around the globe. Some of his efforts have even uncovered work dating as far back as 1500 BC.

 

“I’ve had the opportunity to spend time in Mr. Williams’ living room talking with him and listening to the history of our local African American leaders from the past,” she said.

 

Her tribute to Williams came just prior to February, which is Black History Month throughout the nation.