University of Michigan Heritage Project

“Of Splendid Ability”

Mary Henrietta Graham was the first Black woman admitted to Michigan.

Mary Henrietta Graham was known as Mollie.

She will be the first colored lady that enters the institution.

– Ann Arbor Courier, 1876

More Stories:

“Lonely As Hell”

^“The reality was so massive that all a person of good will could do was make token gestures.^”
– Willis Ward

In a forgotten series of interviews, Black Michigan athletes of the past recalled times when racial lines in sports were firm—then faded.
The First Flu Shot

^“Incontrovertible evidence is now available that the resistance of man to infection by the viruses of influenza A and B can be enhanced.^”
– Tommy Francis and Jonas Salk

As World War II loomed, the military turned to U-M experts to fight a deadly enemy: Influenza
The Assassin’s Widow

^“I’m just like everybody else, and I’ve had more than enough.^”
– Marina Oswald

Marina Oswald was an unlikely but welcomed Michigan student.

See all stories