Floyd J. McCree facts for kids

Floyd J. McCree (1923–1988) was an important politician from Michigan. He made history as the first African American mayor of Flint, Michigan.

Floyd McCree's Early Life

Floyd Joel McCree was born in Webster Groves, Missouri, on March 29, 1923. His parents were Jordan Daniel McCree, Sr. and Minnie Blackwell. He went to high school in St. Louis and later attended Lincoln University of Missouri.

Serving in World War II

McCree served in the United States Army during World War II. He was stationed in the South Pacific. He rose through the ranks to become a staff sergeant. After his military service, he got a job at the Buick factory in Flint. He started as a worker and later became a foreman. Eventually, he was promoted to supervisor of maintenance.

McCree's Political Career

Floyd McCree began his political journey in 1958. He was elected to the Flint City Commission. The City Commission is a group of elected officials who help run the city.

Becoming Mayor of Flint

In 1966, the Flint City Commission chose McCree to be the mayor. He served as mayor from 1966 to 1968. As mayor, he worked hard for "open housing." This meant that people of all races should be able to live wherever they wanted. He also pushed for equal job opportunities for everyone.

Working for Equality

In 1967, McCree helped try to calm down violence in Detroit during a time of unrest. That same year, the City Commission did not want to pass the open housing law. McCree bravely threatened to resign as mayor. Other important African American leaders also threatened to leave their public roles. Because of this, the open housing law was later passed after a big public vote. McCree continued to serve on the City Commission until 1970.

Later Political Roles

In 1971, McCree became the Genesee County Register of deeds. This job involves keeping official records, like property deeds. He ran for mayor again in 1975 and 1979. These elections were under a new system where the mayor was directly elected by the people. He lost both times to James W. Rutherford.

McCree continued to be elected as the County Register. He passed away on June 15, 1988.

McCree's Lasting Legacy

On April 4, 2022, a bronze statue of Floyd McCree was revealed. It stands in front of the Flint City Hall. The statue was created by artist Joe Rundell. Money for the statue was raised by the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. This statue helps people remember McCree's important work and his place in history.