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.

Little Brother Montgomery was born on Kents Mill in Kentwood, Louisiana.

Little Brother Montgomery
Source: Wikipedia

Eurreal Wilford "Little Brother" Montgomery was born on April 18, 1906, in Kentwood, Louisiana, into a family where music was a significant part of life. His parents were Harper Montgomery and Edna Burton Montgomery. he was affectionately known as Little Brother Harper. A self-taught blues pianist, he developed a unique style without formal training, learning music entirely by ear. By the age of four, he began playing the piano, and at eleven, he left home for four years to perform in barrelhouses across Louisiana. His early exposure to music was shaped by influences like Jelly Roll Morton, who visited the Montgomery household. Later, he expanded his career by performing in African American lumber and turpentine camps throughout Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi.

During a review of my archival collection, I discovered a scanned copy of a letter dated April 11, 1976This letter was written on the letterhead of Amos Kent. The letter, addressed to the Kentwood Ledger newspaper, included a program for the Jazz Festival at the Fairgrounds in New Orleans, Louisiana. Amos Kent mentioned that Little Brother Montgomery, a native of Kentwood, was born at Kents Mill. According to Kent, Montgomery began playing the piano at five, ran away at a young age, and performed worldwide. Montgomery later informed Kent that he had returned from Japan and would attend the festival in New Orleans.

Kent noted that Karl Gert zur Heide had written a book on Little Brother Montgomery's life. Montgomery sent albums to Kent to be placed at LSU, Tulane, and Foundation Hall. Several Black men living in Kents Mill knew him: Richard Smith, James Dancer, Irvin Fluker. and Varnado Anderson could attest to Montgomery's character. 

Sources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Brother_Montgomery

https://msbluestrail.org/blues-trail-markers/little-brother-montgomery

Carter LaCoste, a student at St. Augustine High School, advocated for swimming classes as part of the sport activities

Carter's competitive swim meets
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Swimming plays a vital role in LaCoste's life, offering both physical and mental benefits. It provides a unique sense of freedom and relaxation, supports his fitness, and serves as an effective stress reliever.  He also values swimming for the opportunities it gives him to set personal goals and achieve a fulfilling sense of accomplishment. He swims at least four times a week after school. 

In New Orleans, where much of the city lies below sea level, swimming is a critical life skill. Although some schools lack pools, they partner with external facilities to teach swimming, emphasizing its importance in saving lives—a lesson he deeply understands.  Lacoste began his sophomore year at New Orleans' St. Augustine High School, renowned for its strong educational foundation and rich tradition. Becoming a Purple Knight held special significance for him, as it represented a connection to the school's values and identity. However, during his time there, he discovered that the school did not offer swimming as part of its athletic program. This was a notable disappointment for LaCoste as swimming was an activity he valued. He called me to discuss this with me, highlighting the lack of a swimming program as a significant observation about his new school environment.

Anyone familiar with Carter knows that he isn't hesitant to speak or advocate for a cause, and he will argue his point relentlessly. His mother, Victorica, often remarks that he should become an attorney because he is determined to make his point. He's always up for a good debate, that's for sure. During the previous school term, he engaged with Coach Sims,  the school's athletic director, to explore the possibility of introducing swimming as a school activity. "Coach Sim was all ears and was on board," said LaCoste.   Sims took proactive steps to address LaCoste's request rather than allowing it to remain unaddressed. At the start of the current academic year, he  was pleasantly surprised to discover that swimming would indeed be offered at St. Augustine High School. Moreover, he was deeply impressed to learn that approximately twenty students had enrolled in the class during its inaugural meeting. Many of the students had no idea that could be done LaCoste said. We had our first entry meeting and we start swim practice this coming Monday said LaCoste.

LaCoste
Backstroke competitive swimming 
Image: Antoinette Harrell

He was thrilled to call and share the good news. The whole family is proud of him and, most importantly, for the students eager for swimming lessons. Once LaCoste sets his mind to something, he does not stop until he accomplishes it, so his achievements come as no surprise. LaCoste advocacy for integrating swimming into sports programs is highly commendable. This young man serves as a model of leadership, demonstrating a promising future. His efforts have significantly raised awareness about swimming's critical role as both a life skill and a sport.  LaCoste dedication has created new opportunities for youth but also motivated others to engage in advocacy within their communities. 

Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal placed brochures at the Tangipahoa Tourism Center

Tangipahoa Tourism Convention Center

The Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church experienced significant enthusiasm surrounding its activities today. A meeting was convened to organize the placement of brochures at the Tangi Tourism Convention Center, an initiative led by Dr. Antoinette Harrell. The committee’s efforts were warmly received by Carla Tate, President and CEO, and Dana Monistere, Executive Assistant and Operations Manager. The involvement of the Tangi Tourism Convention Center is significant because it provides a platform for visitors who are looking to explore Tangipahoa Parish's rich history, culture, heritage, and cuisine. The church hopes to raise awareness of its cultural and historical significance by placing brochures there.

The brochure will provide comprehensive details about the church's establishment, significant historical milestones, and its enduring role within the community over the years. It will also showcase photographs of the church's architecture and notable past leaders. The founding of the church in 1886 by Rev. Charles Grant Malone and Frank Hughes marked a pivotal moment in the community's history, serving as a spiritual and social center for its members for 139 years. It offered a space for worship, fellowship, and mutual support, developing a strong sense of unity among residents. This foundational role has continued to influence the church's significance and impact within the community over time.

Vera Wheeler
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Black churches have historically served as vital hubs for community support, cultural preservation, and

spiritual enrichment. Grant Chapel AME, the first Black church in Tangipahoa Parish to install a historical marker, exemplifies this legacy by preserving its rich history and cultural significance. The church is working to attract tourist and local alike to highlight its historical and cultural significance. 

Pictured from left to right are Dana Monster,  Pete Boykins, Winthrop Walker, Carla Tate, Ella G. Williams, Vera Wheeler, Dr. Antoinette Harrell and Rev. Herman O. Kelly, Jr. 

For more information about the Tangipahoa Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau, please visit the website at tangitourism.com

Tangipahoa Parish Earlier Black Schools

Westside Marching Band

The historical context of education for Black children in the United States is rooted in systemic exclusion and resilience. During slavery, education was denied to Black children, and those who sought to learn often faced severe punishment. In the southern states, laws and social customs actively barred Black children from formal education, whether enslaved or freed. Despite these barriers, many Black churches became crucial spaces for education, serving as makeshift classrooms and providing a safe haven for learning. This period also saw the establishment of a segregated education system, which persisted until the push for integration. During my research on Black churches in Tangipahoa Parish, I discovered the names of several churches and schools. Reconstructing lost records is a complex task, hindered by the absence of primary sources and firsthand accounts. This lack of documentation makes it difficult to verify historical details and develop a comprehensive understanding of past events. While some older individuals possess records, their willingness to share and preserve them for future study remains crucial to this effort. If you know of others schools, please contact me at nurturingourroots@gmail.com.

Ponchatoula Color School
Photo Courtesy: Ella Mae Badon

1897 Lea's High School, Amite, Louisiana, Kind of Instrument D, Book 29,  Page 8

1903 Oak Grove School,  Book D1, Page 204

1908, Blades Reid School,  D1, Page 338

1911, School, Independence, Kind of Instrument D, Book 63, Page 478

1911, Tangipahoa Parish Negro Training School

1942, Amite Color School, Amite, Louisiana

1917, Color Citizens, Kind of Instrument D, Book 81, Page 470

1920, Tangipahoa Color School,  Kind of Instrument D, Book 88, Page 608

Gordon Chapel Church of God in Christ School, Amite, Louisiana 

Tasker AME Zion Church School, Ponchatoula, Louisiana 

Perrin High School, Ponchatoula, Louisiana

Ponchatoula Color School, Ponchatoula, Louisiana 

Greenville Park High School, Hammond, Louisiana 

1915, Hammond Color School, Hammond, Louisiana, Kind of Instrument D, Book 75, 187

1912,  Big Zion School, Roseland, Louisiana, Kind of Instrument, D, Book 64, Page 227, 350

1958, Westside High School, Amite, Louisiana 

1920, Tangipahoa Colored School, Instrument D, Book 88, 607

1896,  St. James African Methodist Episcopal, Kind of Instrument D, Book D1, Page 136

1926, St. James Mission, Kind of Instrument D, Book 109, Page 27

Grant Chapel AME Church is at the forefront of emphasizing the significance of church history.

 

Grant AME Church in Amite, LA
Photo Courtesy of Facebook

Grant Chapel AME Church is at the forefront of emphasizing the significance of church history. The African American church has a rich legacy of spiritual and educational enrichment. Preserving church history enables future generations to comprehend the cultural and spiritual contributions of the church. It cultivates a sense of identity and community and provides invaluable insights into past struggles and achievements. This preservation also ensures that lessons learned and congregation's heritage are not lost over time. Oftentimes, history is lost throughout the decades. There have been instances where churches were burned, and all records were destroyed.  In some cases, records are lost over time by secretaries. To safeguard church history, digitizing records and important documents can provide a secure and easily accessible archive. I suggest conducting oral history interviews with long-standing members to capture personal stories and experiences that contribute to the church's legacy. Establishing a dedicated history committee can also facilitate long-term efforts to document and celebrate the church's historical milestones. The secretary should keep records of funerals, baptisms, weddings, church anniversaries, and other events. 

My experience in genealogical research reveals that African American churches often lack comprehensive records. Implementing a standardized system for record-keeping can greatly enhance the preservation of essential church documents. Providing training sessions for church secretaries and volunteers on effective record management techniques would also prove advantageous. Additionally, partnerships with local historical societies and archives can offer valuable resources and expertise, ensuring that records are carefully maintained and preserved for future generations. In terms of church preservation, the Nurturing Our Roots and Untold History Foundation, LLC., is happy to assist any interested church.

Preserving History Through Historical Markers with Dr. Antoinette Harrell

https://www.spreaker.com/episode/preserving-history-through-historical-markers-with-dr-antoinette-harrell--66836675?fbclid=IwY2xjawLYB-tleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETE0Y2ZzTW9Ha3VIbVVKb0lpAR6jDakv6z9aY2xMIVH-vTL3A3rkNK6ECscZQ3xXXMFZHKfLUCkfxCWGZI-8Kw_aem_pbGVF_4pAVihBtc3KcWDLg 

Grant Chapel AME Church member preserved thirty-plus years of church history

Esco Hornsby, Sr.
30 + Years of Church History
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church committee member Esco Hornsby, Sr., understands the importance of preservation. His wife's extensive funeral program collection was shared with me several months ago now I'm learning of another collection they own.   During one of our historical marker planning meetings, he shared his book of VHS tapes with me and the other committee members.  The Grant Chapel AME church  collection dates back to the late 1980s and early 1990s. I was pleased to see that he had kept them in a dry place. Preserving these tapes captured the rich history and community life of the church during that era. By safeguarding these tapes, future generations can connect with their heritage and appreciate the longstanding traditions of their church community. The church have been a pillar in Amite, Louisiana  since 1886. This year marks 139 years for the church. 

Church history in the African American community is almost extinct in many cases. It was discussed that the tapes should be preserved digitally for future generations and church history archiving.  The African American church in history is almost extinct.  Losing these historical church archives would mean losing a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual heritage that has shaped communities for generations. The stories, traditions, and music captured in these tapes are invaluable for understanding the struggles and triumphs of African American congregations. Some elders have boxes of church programs, funeral programs, photographs, and other records that is important for documentation of church history. Sometimes, the challenge is getting them to share the materials. 

Among the places genealogists, family historians, and other researchers look for information is the church. Churches often hold a wealth of records that can be invaluable for research. Most church secretaries and leaders will tell you that they do not keep records. Many researchers find it surprising and concerning that the church does not maintain an archive of records. This lack of record-keeping often comes as an unexpected revelation, particularly for genealogists, family historians, and other researchers who rely on such documents for their research and documentation. Preserving these records  are essential for ensuring that future generations can learn from and appreciate this vital part of history.  I hope this post inspire other churches throughout Tangipahoa Parish to do the same for their churches. 

We discussed that the  VHS taped be digitalized for preservation.  Digital preservation will ensure that the church's history is accessible and can be easily shared with a wider audience. It will allow members of the community to revisit past events and celebrations.  Digitizing these tapes protects them from physical degradation, ensuring that this important cultural heritage is not lost to time. 

There are a number of companies that will convert them for a fee. If you do not have an old VHS recorder and other equipment to convert it to digital, you will face a challenge. For assistance, contact familysearch.org or another historical society. I suggest you contact the genealogy department to see if they can assist you. The process can be lengthy and time consuming, so please be patient.  The Nurturing Our Roots and Untold History Foundation, LLC, is willing to help with the preservation process.

Reverend Mack Charles Hurst served as the pastor or Grant Chapel African Methodist Church for twelve years.

Photo Courtesy of
Legacy.com

Rev. Mack Charles Hurst Rev. Mack Charles Hurst was born on July 29, 1940 in Greensburg, Louisiana. He was a retired pastor of the Louisiana Annual Conference of the Eighth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and a lifelong member of GreaterTurner Chapel AME Church, Greensburg, LA. Rev. Hurst graduated from Helena High School in Greensburg, LA in 1957. He was a 1966 graduate of Southern University and A&M College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Agricultural Education. He furthered his education as a Kellogg Fellow at North Carolina AT&T University, Graduate School of Economics. After 10 years of employment as County Supervisor with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Farmers Home Administration, he retired to become a state licensed, commercial and residential building contractor. Rev. Hurst answered the call to preach in July 1988 and served his entire pastoral ministry in the Louisiana Annual Conference. He pastored Gaines Chapel, Tangipahoa; Salter Chapel, Bogalusa; Greater St. James, Hammond; and Grant Chapel, Amite City. He was always faithful to the mission of the AME Church and through his ministry many were converted. His affiliations included Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Prince Hall Freemasonry and he served on the Region 2 Local Workforce Development Board for many years. Rev. Mack Charles Hurst transitioned peacefully to his eternal home on Tuesday, November 10, 2020.