Far Northwest in South Bend in St. Joseph County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Better Homes Of South Bend
Photographed By Lou Donkle, September 30, 2022
1. Better Homes Of South Bend Marker, Side One
In 1950, workers at Studebaker formed an early African American building co-op in Indiana, Better Homes of South Bend. Many members moved from the South in the 1940s to escape segregation and Jim Crow policies. However, federal lending and real estate policies here prevented them from obtaining mortgages equal to whites, limiting them to dilapidated homes in poor areas.
To avoid racist backlash, co-op members kept their plans secret. The co-op's collective power enabled members to secure land, loans, and contractors despite the prejudiced housing market. By the mid-1950s, Better Homes of South Bend built 22 homes on 1700-1800 blocks of North Elmer St. and created a vibrant and peaceful community here in a formerly white neighborhood.
Erected 2017 by Indiana Historical Bureau, City Of South Bend, And Far Northwest Neighborhood Association. (Marker Number 71.2017.2.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Civil Rights • Industry & Commerce. In addition, it is included in the Indiana Historical Bureau Markers series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1950.
Location. 41° 41.853′ N, 86° 16.955′ W. Marker is in South Bend, Indiana, in St.
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 2 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Council Oak (approx. one mile away); Robert Rene Cavalier Sieur DeLaSalle (approx. 1.1 miles away); Schuyler Colfax (approx. 1˝ miles away); Camp Rose (approx. 1˝ miles away); History of the 1906 Studebaker Electric Fountain (approx. 1.7 miles away); Site of Home of Schuyler Colfax (approx. 1.9 miles away); Home of Hon. Schuyler Colfax (approx. 1.9 miles away); United States Constitution Bicentennial (approx. 1.9 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in South Bend.
Photographed By Lou Donkle, September 30, 2022
2. Better Homes Of South Bend Marker, Side Two
Photographed By Lou Donkle, September 30, 2022
3. Marker in front of homes on west side of N Elmer St
Photographed By Lou Donkle, September 30, 2022
4. Marker in front of homes on east side of N Elmer St
Credits. This page was last revised on January 6, 2024. It was originally submitted on June 25, 2023, by Lou Donkle of Valparaiso, Indiana. This page has been viewed 77 times since then and 29 times this year. Last updated on January 1, 2024, by J.T. Lambrou of New Boston, Michigan. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on June 25, 2023, by Lou Donkle of Valparaiso, Indiana. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.
