99 Pine Street: Historical Site in the State of Michigan Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Join the community and family for the official recognition of 99 Pine Street as a designated Historical Site in the State of Michigan. This special event will honor the legacy and memory of beloved parents and grandparents, Annie Mae and Raymond A. Smith.

Annie Mae and Raymond began their journey in the small northern Michigan town of Manistee as a live-in maid and butler. They later moved into an apartment on River Street, and in 1935, they made history by purchasing the home at 99 Pine Street—becoming the first African American homeowners in the City of Manistee.

Today, their home still stands at the base of two hills, a lasting symbol of perseverance, progress, and pride in a community they helped shape.

Date: June 21, 2025

Time: 1:00 PM

Location: Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts (Hardy Hall)

Agenda:
1:00 PM - Program located at RRCA
*Walk to 99 Pine Street
1:45 PM - Ribbon Cutting at 99 Pine Street

The ribbon cutting is hosted by descendants of the Smith Family: Lois Smith Owens, Ann Smith Dieye, and Betty Smith Burton Groce. This ceremony is being organized in collaboration with the City of Manistee, the Manistee County Historical Society, the Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts, and the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce.

You may also like the following events from Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce:

• This Thursday, 5th June, 09:00 pm, Chamber UnTapped in Onekama
• This month, 18th June, 02:00 pm, 2025 Annual Golf Outing in Manistee

Also check out other Arts events in Manistee.