Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Ed Vaughn, a prominent figure in Detroit’s history, recently passed away at the age of 90 after battling pancreatic cancer. Known for opening the first Black-owned bookstore in Detroit and serving in Michigan’s House of Representatives, Vaughn lived a life filled with accomplishments and memorable moments. His son, Eric Vaughn, fondly remembers celebrating his father’s 90th birthday just a few months before his passing.
Ed Vaughn’s bookstore, Vaughn’s Bookstore, was a hub for Black history, arts, and culture, offering a selection of books that couldn’t be found anywhere else in the city. He was heavily involved in the Civil Rights Movement, organizing events that brought together activists, scholars, and musicians to discuss important issues facing the Black community.
Despite facing challenges, including the destruction of his bookstore during the Detroit rebellion, Ed Vaughn remained resilient and continued to pursue his passions. In addition to his work in the bookstore, Vaughn also ventured into politics, serving as a state representative and running for mayor of Detroit.
Ed Vaughn’s legacy extends beyond his bookstore and political career. He inspired many, including Detroit historian Jamon Jordan, whose interest in history was sparked by visits to Vaughn’s Bookstore. Vaughn’s impact on the community was profound, leaving a lasting impression on those whose lives he touched.
As the city of Detroit mourns the loss of Ed Vaughn, his memory lives on through his family, friends, and the countless individuals he influenced throughout his life. His contributions to Detroit’s cultural and political landscape will be remembered for generations to come.
Ed Vaughn, who opened Detroit’s first Black-owned bookstore, dies at 90
When looking back on the life of Ed Vaughn, one can’t help but be struck by the impact he had on those around him. From his early days as a bookstore owner to his later career as a civil rights activist and politician, Vaughn’s legacy is one that will be remembered for generations to come.
Born on July 30, 1934, in Abbeville, Alabama, Ed Vaughn was the youngest of two children to parents Posie and Ivory Vaughn. After graduating from Carver High School in 1951, Vaughn went on to attend Fisk University in Nashville, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history and government in 1955.
Upon returning to Detroit in 1959, Vaughn met and married Wilma Lathion. The couple went on to have four children and settled in various neighborhoods throughout the city, including Boston-Edison and Conant Gardens.
Vaughn’s foray into entrepreneurship began in 1965 when he opened Vaughn’s Bookstore on Dexter Avenue in Detroit. Specializing in Black history, arts, and culture, the bookstore quickly became a hub for the community. Vaughn was not only a bookseller but also a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, actively involved in Black nationalist and Pan-African movements.
In 1966 and 1967, Vaughn organized the Black Arts Convention through Forum ‘66, a Black nationalist group he was a part of. These events brought together activists, scholars, musicians, and performers to discuss issues affecting the Black community. Vaughn’s bookstore became a focal point for these discussions and activities.
Despite facing challenges such as being targeted during the 1967 Detroit rebellion, Vaughn’s bookstore thrived due to the growing interest in Black nationalist ideas. The store eventually expanded to a second location on Mack Avenue in 1969, further solidifying Vaughn’s place in the community.
In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Vaughn also ventured into the world of politics. Serving as a state representative from 1979 to 1980 and again from 1995 to 2000, Vaughn was known for his fearless advocacy for Detroiters in Lansing. In 1997, he ran for Detroit mayor but was unsuccessful in his bid.
Throughout his life, Vaughn’s impact extended beyond his bookstore and political career. He was a mentor to many, including Detroit historian Jamon Jordan, who frequented Vaughn’s Bookstore as a young student. Vaughn’s influence on Jordan’s interest in history and activism is just one example of the lasting impact he had on those around him.
After serving in the state House of Representatives, Vaughn moved back to Dothan, Alabama, where he remained active in local government and the NAACP. His son, Eric Vaughn, credits his father with inspiring him to pursue a career in local government and business, a testament to the influence Ed Vaughn had on those closest to him.
As we reflect on the life and legacy of Ed Vaughn, we are reminded of the power of one individual to make a difference in the lives of many. Vaughn’s commitment to his community, his passion for social justice, and his unwavering dedication to his beliefs will continue to inspire generations to come.
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