ELISABETH DENISON FORTH, born enslaved in 1786 near Detroit, Michigan. Around 1807, she moved to Canada to establish residency and gain her freedom. Forth returned to Detroit around 1815 and worked as a domestic servant. In 1825, she purchased four lots in Pontiac, Michigan, becoming the first Black property owner in the city. In her will, Forth left $3,000 for the construction of a church. St. James Episcopal Church in Grosse Ile, Michigan which was completed in 1868.
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