Oakland County, MI: Keepers of History
In the charming heart of Oakland County, there’s a dedicated historian on a mission to shine a light on the stories that shaped our local parks and the lives of those who came before us. Carol Egbo, who has been with the Oakland County Parks and Recreation for a decade, is unearthing the rich tapestry of history that lies just beneath our feet.
A Journey that Began with Volunteer Work
Carol began her odyssey in the world of history through volunteer work at Addison Oaks, which is the very first park she set foot in. Fast forward to today, and she’s not only an influential historian but also an archaeology consultant, diving deep into the past to unravel mysteries that linger in the air. With a keen eye for detail and a heart full of passion, Carol is currently focused on 15 parks across the county.
What’s particularly exciting about her work is the emphasis on the indigenous history of the areas—many of which were once working farms. Carol is dedicated to showcasing the lives of the people who once inhabited these spaces. “The work is never done,” she insists, reflecting her continuous quest to discover more about the fascinating past.
Uncovering Hidden Histories
One of Carol’s most poignant discoveries occurred at Seymour Lake Cemetery. While exploring the grounds, she found the graves of six children from the same family who tragically lost their lives to diptheria. This discovery didn’t just stop with the ancient headstones; it led her on a journey to look into the disease and the community that buried their little ones there. Seymour Lake Cemetery is not just a resting place; it is a treasure trove of local history.
Helping Local Communities
Carol’s expertise doesn’t stop with parks and cemeteries. She frequently collaborates with local historical societies to settle the debates of time. In one instance, she was called to investigate a home once believed to be built in the 1890s. With her sharp eye—thanks to the wooden floor beams that spoke volumes—she confidently identified it as an 1880s structure. Small details like these create a richer picture of our local heritage.
Preserving the Legacy of Freedom Seekers
Currently, Carol is diving into independent research focused on the Underground Railroad. Partnering with the Network to Freedom, she’s on a mission to uncover and identify the Freedom Seekers who now lay beneath unmarked graves in the county. Her goal? To see every one of these crucial historical markers properly recognized, ensuring that their stories are never forgotten.
Roots in Pontiac
Growing up in Pontiac, Carol has a natural connection to the land she serves. Her childhood experiences in a house her friends believed to be haunted sparked her love for history and archaeology. Digging into the past, even discovering broken plates in her backyard, fueled her fascination with the lives that came before her.
An Unexpected Path to Histories
Despite her longstanding passion for history, Carol’s educational journey began on a different path—in pre-med at the University of Michigan. Realizing it wasn’t her true calling, she shifted gears, eventually stepping into teaching and becoming a social studies consultant. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it became challenging for her to engage with students in the way she loved. This led her back into the realm of history, where she could actively share her passion with others.
Engaging & Educating the Community
Thanks to the wonders of technology, Carol has held series of fireside chats virtual lessons on topics ranging from the Civil War to Indigenous histories connected to our parks. All her sessions can be accessed easily, inviting the community to learn and engage with the fascinating past that surrounds us.
Why History Matters
To Carol, understanding history is essential: “You can’t know where you’re going if you don’t know where you’ve been.” She brings attention to the often-overlooked stories from women, African Americans, and Indigenous groups, pushing for a more inclusive historical narrative. “If we’re not inclusive, we’re not telling the whole story,” she emphasizes.
A Call to Community
For anyone eager to dive into history, Carol’s lessons are open to all. With no pre-registration needed, you can learn at your own pace and discover the remarkable tales that shape our beloved Oakland County. Visit the local parks and cemeteries; they’ve got stories just waiting to be told!
