Archives West Finding Aid

In 1888, over 300 Black miners were sent to Roslyn to combat a strike that the current miners had started due to poor working conditions and low wages. After years butting heads and hard labor, most of the Black families left Roslyn to work in other cities around the state, but a family called the Cravens stayed. Today, there are still several Craven family members who live in or are involved with the Roslyn community, including Ethel Craven-Sweet.

Ethel Craven-Sweet (1935 -) will be remembered for her tremendous work and contribution to the Roslyn Black Pioneers. Born in Roslyn, WA in a family of 15. Ethel has always been passionate about her heritage. Founded by Ethel’s mother and grandmother, this non-profit organization seeks to promote African American culture and history. As the president of the organization, Ethel is very involved in the community, constantly participating in parades and giving presentations in schools, offices, churches, and other events on Washington Black History all around the state. There is also an annual picnic held in Cle Elum by the Roslyn Black Pioneers that started in 1978, honoring and reviving the Emancipation Proclamation Day celebrations that had been held before World War II.