In 1929, Fred A. Allen founded the Supreme Linen and Supply Laundry. Starting as a small operation at 5247 Hastings with one truck and two employees, the business flourished over time. It expanded to employ more than 83 individuals and relocated to 700 East Alexandrine.

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At the outset, it was unprecedented for a black man to own a laundry in Detroit. Despite this, Allen defied norms and successfully established his business.