Michael Jackson Fans ONLY

 

23rd October 1988 - Michael presents a check for $125,000 to Esther G. Edwards, president of Motown Museum and Motown founder, Mr. Berry Gordy during ceremonies at the Motown Museum Historical Foundation in Detroit, Michigan, finance sustaining the maintenance of the famed museum, the highest amount of money donated up until that time to the museum.

Michael's black fedora and sequined glove are on display at the Motown Historical Museum at Hitsville U.S.A. in Detroit

Superstar Michael Jackson, in a rare public appearance, visited Detroit's Motown Museum and donated $125,000 to the famed museum. Extensive security measures were taken for Michael's visit to the Museum, West Grand Blvd. was completely blocked off and police officers and mounted police awaited the arrival of Michael and Motown founder Berry Gordy, Detroit Mayor Coleman Young welcomed them to city.

"It’s great to be here. I'm very happy and proud to be back to the soil from which I came," Michael said during the ceremonies outside of the museum. "Berry Gordy is the man that made it all possible for me. I want to say thank you, Berry and I love you."

At least 2,500 fans endured a constant, cold rain to get a glimpse of Michael when he arrived at the museum. They cheered wildly when Michael presented a check for $125,000 to Gordy and Motown Museum President Esther G. Edwards. Michael also donated three items from his personal collection to the museum: a shiny rhinestone glove, a trademark black fedora and stage costume dating from 1972 he wore with the Jackson 5 when he was 13.

During his visit to the museum, Michael joined Gordy on a tour of the modest house where Gordy founded Motown Records in 1959.

Gordy told the crowd: "Michael Jackson knows that success in life is not merely confined to fame and fortune and material gains, but it's also found in a continual awareness of our roots, his roots. These are Michael Jackson's roots, right here. You were the first people that bought Michael Jackson's records," he told the fans. "And he loves you-and he loves you for it."

Gordy called the pop superstar one of the museum's greatest supporters and praised Michael as "a man who is not only the greatest entertainer to come out of Motown, but the greatest entertainer to come out of any town!”