St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church No: 2

St. James #2, Hammond, LA
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

I was driving along Airport Road last week when I passed St. James #2 African Methodist Episcopal Church in Hammond, Louisiana. I considered turning around to take a few photographs, but I did not follow my initial instinct. Upon returning home, I reflected on my decision and questioned why I had not stopped. I rationalized that I would stop the next time I visited Hammond.

Well, today was that day. My granddaughter and I drove to the location, and I got out to take a few pictures. I’d like to know more about the history of St. James #2. How long has this church been in the community. I looked for a cornerstone, but I didn't see on. 

Behind the red brick church, the cemetery unfolded, its graves marked by weathered headstones. A towering oak tree, its gnarled branches draped in silvery moss, dominated the scene. It cast long, whispering shadows that seemed to echo forgotten stories and people. Unfortunately, I was unable to visit the cemetery to examine the inscriptions on the headstones for additional information. The names inscribed on the older headstones could have provided valuable leads for further research on Ancestry, particularly regarding individuals interred in the older graves.

Please feel free to post any information you may have about the church or a loved one buried in the church cemetery. I encourage you to share any personal stories or cherished memories related to the church or those resting in its cemetery. Your contributions can help preserve the rich history. Whether it's a memorable event or a touching moment, we'd love to hear from you. If anyone knows the history or can put me in contact with someone who can help, would you please do so? You can reach out to me via email or leave a comment below with any information or contacts you have. Your help would be greatly appreciated as I delve into the history of the church. 

St. James # 2 Cemetery
Hammond, Louisiana 

Contact via email at nurturingourroot@gmail.com

"The Gift of Photography: A Journey with Luther Tolliver"

Photo Courtesy
Facebook/Luther Tolliver 

Luther Tolliver is rarely seen without a camera in hand, tirelessly capturing the essence of Tangipahoa Parish. His lens immortalizes the people and events that define the area, from lively annual parades to the bustling oyster festival and the rich history of Mt. Canaan Baptist Church. As long as his health allowed, his camera remained an extension of himself, preserving the unique fabric of the community. Through his photography, Luther has helped document and celebrate the vibrant culture and traditions of Tangipahoa Parish. His images serve as a vivid visual archive that connects residents to their heritage, contributing to a deep sense of identity in the community. As he captures these moments, he preserves the stories and spirit of Tangipahoa Parish and its surrounding areas for future generations. Luther served in the United States Miltiary and returned back to roots here in Tangipahoa. Luther is still serving his parish. 

Years later, many individuals reflect on past events and regret not having captured images of themselves or
their loved ones who were part of those moments. Photographs possess a unique ability to preserve the essence of precious memories and emotions that might otherwise be lost over time. They are actual keepsakes, capturing the love, joy, and connections shared during significant occasions. When revisited, these images have the power to stir feelings of fondness and warmth, transporting us back to those cherished moments and allowing us to relive the emotions tied to them. Luther had given a gift to so many

Luther Tolliver
Photo Credit: Facebook/Luther Tolliver

that would later put a smile on their face. 

I have had the privilege of visiting Mt. Canaan Missionary Baptist Church over the course of several weeks, where Luther Tolliver is an active and dedicated member. During my time there, I observed him diligently capturing numerous photographs of the congregation and various church events. The importance of such efforts cannot be overstated, as the history of many churches often goes undocumented, and in some cases, the few photographs that were taken have been lost or misplaced over time. This emphasizes the critical need to preserve these moments, ensuring that the legacy and history of the church are safeguarded for future generations. Untold History Foundation and Nurturing Our Roots proudly recognize and salute Luther Tolliver for his unwavering commitment to serving his community and preserving its history. 

Nurturing Our Roots
Fine Art Gallery
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Cooking hog cracklins at the Womack syrup shed in St. Helena, Louisiana

Hog Crackins
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

 In the past, traditional practices such as hog killing were communal events that contributed to strengthening family and community bonds. Families would utilize large cast-iron pots, typically employed for washing clothes, to cook hog cracklins. Aside from that, the head of the hog would often be boiled to produce hog head cheese. I watched Robert McClendon cook hog cracklins.

Robert tended to his hog cracklins, the golden pieces sizzling and popping in the pan. He’d sit there, a master of his craft, sharing stories of how they used to butcher hogs and transform them into these savory treats. Upon asking if he killed the hog himself, he said no, I brought back the fat from the slaughterhouse said Robert. He waited patiently until the cracklins were ready for the men to sample. Some of them reminisced about the old days on the farms where they grew up. "For many, those days are long gone, carrying their loved ones who taught them the craft with them. It is at times like this that those memories come surfacing; otherwise, the memories fade with the past."

Robert McClendon
Cookng hog cracklins
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Sweet potatoes baked in the oven are the epitome of southern comfort

Baked Sweet Potatoes 
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

 I have fond memories of my childhood, growing up in my grandparents' charming wooden-framed home, which was located on a long stretch of road known at that time as Route 306 in Amite, Louisiana. In the den, there stood an old pot-belly stove, its presence both practical and comforting. The firewood was always stacked neatly in the corner, ready for use. This stove was not merely a source of warmth for the room; it also served as a versatile tool for preparing hearty soups and stews, especially on the coldest winter days, when its warmth and the aroma of cooking filled the home with a sense of coziness and togetherness.

Mama Phine, my beloved grandmother, had a unique way of baking sweet potatoes: she would place them in the ashes to cook. As a child, I often found this method curious and unfamiliar, wondering why she chose such an unconventional approach. However, the results were always extraordinary. When the sweet potatoes emerged from the ashes, they were incredibly delicious. On occasion, they would caramelize, creating a sweet, gooey texture that was my absolute favorite. The rich, sugary flavor of those caramelized potatoes was a treat that lingered pleasantly on my taste buds.

During one of my visits to the Womack Syrup Making shed, I came across a patch of sweet potatoes. I observed Richard Womack as he prepared the potatoes for baking. At first, I assumed he was going to place them inside the clay stove for baking. However, to my surprise, he positioned them on top of the red clay stove to bake. Initially, I thought they were simply resting there, but Cedrick Womack clarified that Richard was, in fact, baking the sweet potatoes on top of the stove. 

The gate of memories swung open, and I found myself immersed in thoughts of my childhood, when I watched my grandmother bake those delightful homegrown sweet treats. Those days, though marked by humble beginnings, were filled with a beauty and simplicity that still resonate deeply with me. The vibrant hues of the sweet potatoes, paired with the earthy tones of the clay, evoked in me the image of a masterful work of art. Richard, with great care and precision, honed his craft in baking these delectable treats. Around him, a group of men sat patiently, eagerly anticipating the arrival of those naturally sweet and savory delicacies.

You can find homemade teacakes, cracklings, grits, eggs, smoked sausage, and biscuits in the Womack Syrup Making shed. Oh, and don’t forget the hot kettle of coffee brewing! It a time where family and friends come together once a year to enjoy what they do. A tradition that the Womack Family want to maintain as long as they health will allow them to. 

In 1876, an enraged mob tore apart Prince B. Melson's Justice of the Peace Commission in St. Helena.

Prince B. Melson

Tyrus Holmes highlighted during our conversation that the surname Melson carries significant historical importance within St. Helena Parish. He elaborated on the deep-rooted connection between his maternal lineage and the Melson family, reflecting on the historical ties that bind them. While Tyrus acknowledged a lack of specific details regarding this genealogical relationship, he suggested reaching out to his mother, who possesses a wealth of knowledge on the subject and could provide a more comprehensive understanding. Upon his request to include his mother in the discussion, I agreed, and a brief introduction followed.  

I sought to gain insight into her family genealogy and lineage. She explained that her father, John Henry Melson, was the grandson of Prince B. Melson. She confirmed that her father and Prince Estella Melson Lee was first cousins. Prince Estella Melson Lee was the spouse of Herbert Lee, a prominent voter rights activist who was tragically murdered in September 1961 by State Legislator E. H. Hurst at a cotton gin in Liberty, Mississippi. The murder occurred during a period of heightened racial tension and voter suppression in the Jim Crow South, where activists like Herbert Lee faced significant risks advocating for civil rights.

Prince B.Melson was born in 1851 in Greensburg, Louisiana, and died in 1917 in New Orleans, Louisiana. He later married Lucinda Torrence.  Prince and Lucinda was married i 1873 in St. Helena, Louisiana. They were the parents of; Jacob Melson, Willy Melson, Maggie Melson, Jane Melson, Viola Melson, Bennie Melson, Ellen Melson, David Melson, August Melson, Ollie Melson, and Mamie Melson. 

Prince B. Melson
Photo Courtesy: Tyrus Holmes

A tragic incident involving Prince.B. Melson, a Black Justice of the Peace elected in 1876 and commissioned by Kellogg, is documented in "A History of the Negro Voting in Louisiana, " 1877–1906. While presiding over court proceedings, a mob of approximately one hundred men reportedly invaded Melson’s home, confiscated and destroyed his commission, tore up his books, and threatened to lynch him if he continued to hold court. Described as a literate and property-owning Black man, Melson’s story underscores the pervasive violence of the era. Reading Allie Bayne Windham’s dissertation on the history of Black voters in Louisiana highlights the extent of murders, lynchings, and beatings that occurred during this period, which is deeply disturbing.

The post-Reconstruction era was a period of immense hardship for Black individuals in Louisiana. Violent and fatal riots plagued communities where Black people lived. Black voters faced violence from both the Democratic and Republican parties, which exploited them for political gain. During this period, the Democratic Party aimed to reassert its dominance in the Southern states by suppressing Black political influence through intimidation and disenfranchisement. Black individuals and voters were politicallymarginalized and vulnerable, as both parties placed their own interests above meaningful reform. Prince B. Melson is just one of the many Black people who faced violence and the threat of death although many was killed for wanting to cast their vote and seek political office. 

Prince Estella Melson Lee, the granddaughter of Prince B. Melson, and his namesake deeply understood the sacrifices involved in the struggle for voting rights. Her husband, Herbert Lee a committed activist and supporter of voter rights, tragically lost his life in this fight. Lee was an active member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in Amite County, Mississippi. In 1961, he collaborated with Bob Moses of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) to encourage Black residents in the area to register to vote. Prince B. Melson was portrayed as a prominent community figure whose influence extended to local politics and regional development. He late became a preacher.

Prince Estella Melson Lee
Photo Courtesy: Find a Grave

Citation

Webb, Allie Bayne Windham, "A History of Negro Voting in Louisiana, 1877-1906." (1962). LSU Historical, Dissertations and Theses. 748.

Ella Williams secretary for Grant Chapel AME Preserving the Church History

Greater St. James AME Historical Marker Initiative with Hammond City, Councilman Kip Andrew

Rev. Herman O. Kelly, Jr., is dedicated to safeguarding Grant Chapel's history and legacy

Preserving Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church History

Rosa Etta Wooldridge was delivered by Annie Nutter a midwife in St. Helena Parish

Rosa Etta Wooldridge
1916 Louisiana Birth Record
Source: Ancestry.com

The 1911 through 1923 Louisiana birth records reveal another midwive in St. Helena Parish. Her name was Annie Nutter. This is the first time I have seen this surname in my research. Annie could not write. She made her (x). 

Pheoby Self Vining was born in 1880 in Pine Grove, Louisiana

 

Pheobe Self was born in Pine Grove, Louisiana, to Jordan and Delia, who were 34 and 24 years old at the time. Delia, her mother, worked as a midwife and delivered many of Pheobe’s children. During her marriage to William Allen Vining, Pheobe gave birth to one son and seven daughters. She passed away on September 12, 1950, in Independence, Louisiana, at the age of 70.

Louisiana birth records uncover names of midwives in the Southeast Florida Parishes

Charley Green
1917 Louisiana Birth Records
Source: Ancestry. com

Louisiana birth records, covering 1911 to 1923, became accessible in September. Jane Holiday shared this news with me via email, expressing her excitement. I was eager to explore and analyze the records. I located my maternal relative, Charley Green, who was the son of my third great-aunt. I carefully examined and analyzed each detail on the record. I discovered that Green was born in 1917 in Jack, Louisiana, an unincorporated community situated in the third district of St. Helena Parish. His father was a farmer, and his mother was a housewife. The midwife who certified his birth was Delia Self.

The names of midwives are nearly indistinct, with many from earlier eras fading into history. This newly developed database aims to unravel the mystery surrounding the women who served as healthcare providers for those preparing to give birth.

Midwives such as Mandy Jones Wheat and Tishann Woods are among the few whose contributions have been documented, shedding light on their essential roles within their communities. These records not only trace the evolution of childbirth practices in Louisiana but also serve as a foundation for further research into the lives of midwives whose names have been lost to history.

Sam Holden birth record found in Ancestry online Louisiana birth records

Ancestry has introduced a new collection of Louisiana birth records spanning the years 1911 to 1923, facilitating access to historical birth information online. Additionally, a 2022 Louisiana law permits adoptees aged 24 and older to request non-certified copies of their original birth certificates, though this process is managed directly by the state and is not included in Ancestry's collection.

The birth record of Sam Holden, son of Leon and Alberta Vining Holden, highlights his birthplace as the village of Montpelier, located in St. Helena Parish, Ward 4. This record is part of several birth records discovered for family members and others in the Tangipahoa and St. Helena Parishes.

Could Grandma's quilts be on the verge of being lost forever?

The handmade quilts at my grandmother Josephine's home were a kaleidoscope of variegated colors, each piece cut into distinctive shapes that seemed to tell their own story. Heavy and substantial, they felt like a warm embrace, making it difficult for my small, slender body to move beneath their weight. On those brutal winter nights in the outskirts of Amite, Louisiana,  the place we called home. The quilts were more than just bedding—they were a lifeline, a fortress against the unforgiving cold. 

The blankets in her home were more than mere coverings; they were woven with love, a tangible expression of her care. Each stitch carried the warmth of her heart, a deliberate effort to protect and comfort those she cherished. The handmade quilts, with their intricate patterns and vibrant colors, were not just functional but artistic treasures, stitched together to create masterpieces that embodied her devotion.

It's not just the quilt; it is the beautiful memories of our loved ones who have passed away. Those quilts hold the stories of many who joined in to make them. It was a time when women gathered, sharing conversations, problem-solving, and planning actions to keep their homes and community families together. 

If anyone in St. Helena, Washington, East Feliciana, Livingston, and Tangipahoa parishes would like to share their story and images of the quilt for a story, please email me at nurturingourroots@gmail.com.

Edgar Pitts preserving southern old-fashion tea cake recipes

Eric Lee Pitts
with his father's homemade
teacakes. Photo credit
Dr. Antoinette Harrell 

One of my cherished childhood memories of my mother is her baking and cooking, especially when she prepared her traditional Southern teacakes. Over time, that memory faded as fewer people around me continued to bake those sweet, delicious treats. A couple of years ago, I met Edgar Pitts at the Womack Sugarcane Syrup farm. During a break, he walked over to a bag of teacakes and offered me one. Of course, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to revisit those nostalgic flavors. One bite was all it took to transport me back down memory lane. His teacakes were so delicious.

Pitts learned the art of baking tea cakes on YouTube, inspired by his father-in-law's longing for those sweet, nostalgic treats. Determined to surprise him, he scoured recipes online until he found one that stood out. His first batch, a labor of love, earned a smile of delight from his father-in-law, L.S. Spears, whose satisfaction was all the encouragement Pitts needed to continue perfecting his craft.

Each bite offers a rich medley of flavors, with the taste of vanilla and cane syrup standing out among the carefully selected ingredients, all baked with love and affection. I asked him if he would prepare a couple dozen for the Womack family's sugarcane syrup-making event, and he graciously agreed. During the presentation, I surveyed the room, hoping to catch a glimpse of him, but to my surprise, he was not there. Unbeknownst to me, the man who entered carrying a box was his son, Eric Lee Pitts. He handed the box to Mary Womack, who then brought it to me to share with the attendees. Upon announcing that homemade teacakes were available, those familiar with their taste quickly gathered around the table to secure a portion. After the first bite, the room filled with exclamations of delight, such as "These are so delicious; may I have another?" For many of the children in attendance, it was their first introduction to teacakes, both in name and taste.

The old-fashioned homemade teacakes, with their soft, buttery texture and subtle sweetness, added a special touch to the event. One of the attendees, delighted by their flavor, stepped in to tell the library staff how delicious they were. In more ways than one, the event was a huge success, bringing together people from St. Helena Parish and surrounding areas. Once again, the southern cuisine and the old-fashioned way of cooking cane syrup created a warm, communal atmosphere.

Our community thrives when we come together for events like this, which create a sense of connection and shared purpose. The combination of delicious food, meaningful conversations, and a welcoming atmosphere made for a beautiful fall Saturday morning. Not only was it enjoyable, but it also proved to be an educational and heartwarming experience that left a lasting impression. 

Mary Womack bringing in the 
box of homemade teacakes
Photo Credit
Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Sugarcane syrup making is deeply rooted in the Womack family traditions

The Womack Brothers
Photo Credit:  Dr. Antoinette Harrell 

I organized the event to presented photographs and videos of the Womack family producing sugarcane syrup in St. Helena Parish at the St. Helena Parish Library. Members of the Womack family shared insights into the craft of sugarcane syrup production. The event attracted a large audience of both youth and adults. Sugarcane stalks, cane knives,  and sweet-tasting syrup were presented for tasting. The sweet treats were accompanied by freshly baked tea cakes made by Edgar Pitts. The tea cakes boasted a delicate, buttery taste with a subtle hint of vanilla that perfectly complemented the richness of the syrup. Each bite revealed a soft, moist crumb infused with subtle notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. Together, these flavors blended into a delightful harmony, making the tasting experience truly unforgettable. It was the first time that some of the patrons taste these homemade treats.These memories evoke a sense of cultural significance, linking individuals to their heritage and family traditions. They serve as a reminder of the values, stories, and customs passed down through generations, reinforcing personal identity and fostering a sense of belonging within a broader community.

The Womack brothers—Floyd, Richard, John, and Larry—shared their passion for the craft and extended an invitation tothe audience to witness the process the day after Thanksgiving. Images and video from my collection  and Donald Davis's collection provided a glimpse into the intricate process of sugarcane syrup making. The library personnel noted that it was the highest number of visitors they had seen on a Saturday morning. The event, which had been widely promoted across various platforms, attracted a diverse crowd of enthusiasts and families. This created a lively atmosphere in the library.

Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Cedrick Womack, the son of John Womack, stresses the importance of maintaining the tradition and passing it on

to future generations. He noted that his father and uncles are getting older, and he does not want to see the craft fade away. He believes that teaching younger family members and apprentices the skills and values associated with the craft is essential for its preservation. 

Larry demonstrated the process of chopping down sugar cane, highlighting the physical demands and challenges

of the task. He explained that this labor requires significant strength and endurance, as workers must repeatedly swing machetes to cut through the thick stalks. The combination of intense heat and long working hours further exacerbates the difficulty of the job.

Floyd Womack and his brothers recounted how this annual event serves as a unifying occasion for their family. Richard described the tradition of roasting sweet potatoes on the handmade stove, while Floyd reflected on the homemade biscuits and the inviting aroma of smoked sausages that permeated the air. Preserving the culinary traditions of rural communities is essential. As younger generations migrate to cities for better opportunities, the knowledge of traditional recipes and cooking techniques is at risk of being lost. Globalization and the rise of processed foods further threaten these unique culinary practices, which have been passed down for generations. Without dedicated efforts to document and sustain them, these traditions may fade away over time.

Womack Family Syrup will be featured in the December 2025 issue of 64 Parishes Magazine, with the story running through February 2026.