One black man in St. Clair

The only black man in St. Clair, Michigan when I was young

Was a man that saved a wealthy white  man's son from drowning in the River.

The wealthy man bought the black man a house  in St. Clair.

I don't know if the black  man was  smart, educated,  and honest in all things,

I just know he rescued the white man's son from drowning.

The house was located at 9th and Vine.  (S/E corner)