Michigan's Historical Conventions | July 6

1931: Della Reese, born Delloreese Patricia Early in Detroit, began her journey as a singer and made history by performing as the first gospel singer in Las Vegas casinos. She later gained fame for her role in "Touched by An Angel" and was ordained as a minister, officiating the wedding of her co-star Roma Downey. 1845: The antislavery Fusion Convention in Jackson, Michigan, originally planned indoors, moved outdoors due to large attendance, leading to the formation of the Republican Party.