The Duluth lynching, 100 years later

Sculptures of three people in relief.
Located on the corner of East First Street and North Second Avenue East in Duluth, the Clayton Jackson McGhie Memorial is quiet during the morning of June 9.
Derek Montgomery for MPR News

On June 15, 1920, three black men wrongfully accused of a crime were lynched by a mob in Duluth.

One hundred years later, the city's residents are remembering the killings of Elias Clayton, Elmer Jackson and Isaac McGhie — even though a large event marking the somber anniversary had to be canceled because of the pandemic. 

After George Floyd's killing in Minneapolis late last month, activists have held vigil daily at a memorial for the three men in downtown Duluth at the corner of East First Street and North Second Avenue East.

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with the city's human rights officer and one of the people organizing virtual events this week to ensure the men aren't forgotten. 

Guests:

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.