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Newspapers ➔ Metal Printing Block, Blank
Identifier:
2024.11.19Description:
This printing block was used by the The Michigan State News, a weekly state newspaper published in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This newspaper catered to African American readers, including reporting on the workings of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The blocks were used for printing advertisements, images and cartoons.See images under media to view an image of the printed block.
Date:
circa 1924Materials:
Metal, WoodDimensions:
.25"" h .1875"" w .75"" dCurrent Location Status:
In StorageCollection Tier:
Tier 2Source:
Gift of Roger DeHaanRelated Entities:
Roger DeHaan (donor) George M. Smith (used by)During his career in printing and publishing, George M. Smith of Grand Rapids worked primarily as a foreman at Etheridge Printing Company and Peninsula Typesetting. He was a founding officer of the NAACP Grand Rapids Chapter in 1919. His obituary described him as a "Pioneer in the Black Struggle" relating to his important work in civil rights.
In 1920 Smith founded the Michigan State News, a newspaper that according to historian Randal Jelks, was: “a newspaper dedicated to giving African Americans a statewide journalistic voice. The paper's motto was ‘Michigan’s Race Paper’ [and it] articulated a viewpoint that helped to galvanize the fight against Jim Crow.” (Making Opportunity, Jelks, 1993). He was listed in the Grand Rapids City Directory as the Manager of the Michigan State News during its short history from 1921-1924 which started operation out of his home at 1030 Toren SE and in 1923 moved to 360 S Division.
In his personal life, George M. Smith was married to Hattie Smith and had two children Pierson and Lewis Smith and was a member of St. Philip Episcopal Church.
