Lewis H. Michaux facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lewis H. Michaux
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| Born | 1885 or 1895 Newport News, Virginia, U.S.
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| Died | August 25, 1976 (aged 92 or 82) |
| Occupation | Bookseller |
| Known for | African National Memorial Bookstore |
| Relatives | Lightfoot Solomon Michaux (brother) |
Lewis H. Michaux (born between 1885 and 1895 – died 1976) was a famous bookseller and civil rights activist in Harlem, New York City. From 1932 to 1974, he owned the African National Memorial Bookstore. This store was one of the most important African-American bookstores in the United States. It was a special place for learning and discussion during the Civil Rights Movement.
Contents
Lewis Michaux's Life Story
Michaux was born in Newport News, Virginia. His exact birth year is a bit unclear, but it was either 1885 or 1895. His parents were Henry Michaux and Blanche Pollard. Lewis Michaux did not have much formal schooling.
Before he moved to New York, he worked in different jobs. He picked peas and washed windows. He also served as a deacon in his brother Lightfoot Solomon's church in Philadelphia.
Lewis Michaux passed away from cancer in 1976. He was reportedly 92 years old at the time.
About His Family
Lewis Michaux was married to Bettie Kennedy Logan. They had one son together. His brother, Solomon Lightfoot Michaux, was also a well-known person. He advised U.S. President Harry S. Truman. His brother also helped build homes for people who needed them.
The African National Memorial Bookstore
Michaux opened his special bookstore in 1932. It was first located on 7th Avenue in Harlem. In 1968, the store had to move to West 125th Street. This was to make space for a new state office building. The bookstore finally closed its doors in 1974. This happened after more disagreements about its location.
Michaux's bookstore inspired many students, thinkers, writers, and artists. He called his store the "House of Common Sense and the Home of Proper Propaganda." It became a very important reading spot for the Civil Rights Movement.
The Memorial Bookstore was a unique place for Black people and scholars. It welcomed anyone interested in books by or about African Americans, Africans, Caribbeans, and South Americans. The store had over 200,000 books. It was the largest bookstore of its kind in the country. Everyone, no matter their background, was encouraged to start their own home libraries. If people didn't have money, they could still sit and read for free.
His Beliefs and Politics
Lewis Michaux was active in the Black nationalism movement. This was from the 1930s to the 1960s. He supported Marcus Garvey's idea of Pan-Africanism. This idea was about uniting all people of African descent. Harlem was once the main place for Garvey's Universal Negro Improvement Association. This was the biggest Black movement of its time.
Michaux was also a personal friend of Malcolm X. He was a member of the Organization of Afro-American Unity. This group was formed in 1964.
When it came to religion, Michaux had a sign in his store that said "Christ is Black." However, he had different views from his brother Lightfoot Solomon about Christianity. Michaux once famously said, "The only lord I know, is the landlord." This showed his focus on practical matters.
