September 1, 2026 – A new marker has been added to the Macon County African American Heritage Trail, honoring Decatur entrepreneur Samuel Houston Singleton.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the marker at the corner of Merchant and Main Streets. Singleton, who lived from 1848 to 1926, was a prominent Black entrepreneur in Decatur.
The new marker also recognizes the contributions of Black business owners to the history and development of Decatur and Macon County.
The Macon County African American Heritage Trail features historical markers, murals and other points of heritage throughout the county, highlighting the lives, achievements and contributions of African Americans who helped shape the community.
The celebration was hosted by the Macon County African American Heritage Trail Committee and the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation.
More information about the trail, its historical sites and the people represented on it is available at mcafricanamericanheritage.org.
