Edward "Ed" Vaughn, founder of Detroit's First Black-owned bookstore and a civil rights icon, has died. He was 90. Michigan Chronicle reported that when he opened Vaughn's Book Store on Dexter Avenue in the 1960s, he "wasn't just selling books but creating a haven for Black Detroiters in search of knowledge, culture, and revolution. The store became a gathering place for activists, intellectuals, and community leaders, fueling the fight for civil rights and Black empowerment. Decades later, Vaughn's impact stretched far beyond the shelves of his bookstore as he transitioned from entrepreneur to state legislator, never losing sight of his mission: to uplift Detroit's Black community. Today, his legacy will be forever etched into the heart of the city, a testament to his lifelong pursuit of justice, equality, and empowerment."
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| Vaughn's Bookstore after the 1967 Detroit civil uprising (Bentley Historical Society) | |
Vaughn moved to Detroit in the 1950s to work in the auto industry, but quickly realized his purpose was rooted in the fight for civil rights. To fill the void of being unable to find Black authors that he and his friends wanted to read, he began ordering books and selling them out of his car. Soon after, he decided to open Vaughn's Book Store. "More than just a retail space, it was a beacon for African American literature, history, and thought. Vaughn's Bookstore played a vital role in the Black Power Movement by providing access to important African literature," Michigan Chronicle wrote.
Vaughn quickly became a prominent figure in Detroit's civil rights scene, taking part in protests and organizing for racial justice. He was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives for the 8th district in 1978. In 1994, he won another election to the state house and represented the 4th district.
Vaughn's influence "extended far beyond his time in the legislature. Throughout his life, he remained committed to the empowerment of the Black community in Detroit. He continued to support young leaders and activists, encouraging them to take up the mantle of leadership and continue fighting for racial and economic justice," Michigan Chronicle noted.
In 2019, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History honored Vaughn with the Freedom Award for his unwavering dedication and outstanding lifetime of service to the community.
After Vaughn's Book Store closed, it left a lasting imprint on the city, "serving as a reminder of the power of literature, culture, and education in advancing the struggle for equality.... It left such an imprint that the city of Detroit will soon be breathing new life into it and restoring it," Michigan Chronicle wrote.
In a statement, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said, "To preserve this history and Ed's legacy, my team has been working for some time to develop plans to redevelop Vaughn's Book Store, similar to what we are doing with the Ossian Sweet House. Ed's passing is all the more reason to make sure we see this through."
In 2023, the National Register of Historic Places recognized Vaughn's Book Store for its significant historical and cultural importance as a pivotal community hub and meeting point for Black activist leaders in Detroit and nationwide.
Even in his later years, Vaughn remained active in his community, attending events, lending his voice to important causes, and mentoring the next generation of activists and leaders. He often spoke of the need for continued vigilance and the importance of young people being involved in the fight for social justice.