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A new historical marker in Southwest Detroit will celebrate the rich musical heritage of the Tejano community in Michigan. The marker, which is the first of its kind in the state, will be located at the Mexicantown Community Development Corporation Plaza on the corner of Bagley and 21st Streets. It is a collaborative project between the Martin H. Solis Jr. Tejano Association and the Michigan Music Hall of Fame.
It will recognize the impact of Texas-Mexican migrants who brought their distinctive musical styles to Michigan, especially after World War II. These migrants formed vibrant musical cultures that were often overlooked by outsiders, but that continue to flourish today.
“Music draws us together across time, cultures, and geography,” said Sandra Clark, director of the Michigan History Center. “It is fitting that the first Michigan Historical Marker to commemorate the Latinx community of Detroit and Michigan should focus on Tejano contributions to the soundscape of Detroit. The Michigan Historical Commission and the Michigan History Center know there are many more stories that need to be told, and we look forward to sharing them in the years to come.”
The historical marker will honor the legacy of Tejano music in Michigan and its contribution to the state’s history and diversity. The marker will be unveiled during National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. A dedication ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 29 at 2826 Bagley Street. Live music will be performed before and after the ceremony. The event is free and open to everyone.
“My dad never dreamed that one day his name would be on a historical marker. He just loved to play music,” said Frank Solis, president and co-founder of the Martin H. Solis Jr. Tejano Association. “It’s truly an honor for the state of Michigan to recognize and celebrate his legacy and the legacy of all of Michigan’s Tejano pioneers with this marker.”
The marker is a collaborative project between the Martin H. Solis Jr. Tejano Association and the Michigan Music Hall of Fame, with support from Third Man Records, the Mexicantown Community Development Corporation, the Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan, SCP Radio, and the Julian Samora Research Institute at Michigan State University.
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