Cheryl Stamant recalls her mother's handmade vintage doilies and scarves

Catherine Harrell Lewis

It's human nature to share stories about our families. This morning, I spoke with my maternal first cousin Cheryl. During our conversations, we somehow take a trip down memory lane. My mother Isabell and Cheryl's mother Catherine were sisters.  During our childhood, we spent a great deal of time together. Cheryl and her family lived primarily in New Orleans, Louisiana, while my family lived on my maternal great-grandmother's homestead in Amite, Louisiana. Cheryl and her siblings often visited us during the holidays and summer. Later Cheryl and her family moved back to Amite, La., where her mother grew up.

My  brothers and I would be so happy to see our cousins and play with them. We would pick blackberries  plums, peaches, pears, black walnuts on the homestead.  We enjoyed exploring and hiking in the woods. We spent the whole day together laughing and playing. It was one of the best memories I have of my childhood. Despite the amount of time we spent together, I didn't know her mother enjoyed crocheting lace scarves and doilies. She recalled how her mother crocheted beautiful handmade vintage scarves and doilies. During the 1930s to 1960s the vintage beauties adorned many homes. "Mother used to take the scarves when she was finished making them and dip them in Argo starch and wrap them in a towel and place them in the freezer and then iron them stiff," said Cheryl.  Some of the doilies held beautiful vases that sat on the tables she said. 

Cheryl Stamant

Many women called her to inquire about the handmade beauties.  Cheryl spoke about her mother's talents. Cooking was another of her talents. She mentioned the blackberry dumplings and her cooking. I knew my aunt was a good cook but I was unaware that she enjoyed the art of crocheting. I was surprised to learn that she had a talent for crocheting. I wish I could see the intricate patterns and designs she made. I really enjoyed Cheryl sharing beautiful memories of her mother with me. 

It's not unusual to find vintage handmade crocheted scarves and doilies in antique shops and estate sales across the country. When I see them, I can't help but think about the hands that made them. Cheryl express how she wish she had just one of the vintage beauties made by her mother's hands.

I love hearing stories like these because it helps me to appreciate life more and to remember to cherish the special moments I have with my family and friends. I am grateful for Cheryl's stories and for reminding me of the special people in my life. Sharing beautiful stories of your dear loved one help to keep their memory alive. I wanted to ensure that what she share with me can be shared with others members of our family who was unaware of her crocheting skills. 

Alberta Irving and Ralph "Kid" Irving owned a grocery store and gas station in the 1950s.

Kid and Alberta Irving Grocery Store and Gas Station
Roseland, LA
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Taking photographs of farm animals grazing in pastures or in picturesque meadows with colorful flowers and greenery on back roads in the early morning or midday is one of my favorite activities in the spring or summer. Photographs of those breathtaking landscapes would make excellent greeting cards and postcards. On a beautiful evening, I decided to take a back road in Roseland, Louisiana, instead of taking the interstate.  As I rode along a beautiful back road, I noticed a tiny wooden building with a single gas pump. I observed a gas pump that looked like it was from the early 1950s.

Since I did not have my camera with me, I used my phone to take the photograph. What is the history of the building?  My intention was to post the image on Facebook to see if anyone was familiar with the building's history. A couple of people who saw the picture started talking about the picture and sharing memories of the place. One of those people was a woman named Lorraine Deamer Lizana who shared her memories. "This is the store owned by my Aunt Alberta and Uncle Ralph "Kid" Irving on Washington Avenue," said Lorraine. 

"This store was built at least in the 50s because I remember it as a child. I lived down the gravel road about 1/8 mile fromthem. Uncle Kid drove the school bus. They were also farmers. Me and my cousin picked green beans and strawberries for them. Aunt Alberta would go to Amite to sell fruits and vegetables from the back of her pickup truck. She operated the grocery store in the picture selling dry goods, candy, dill pickles, pop, lunch meat, canned goods, Stage Planks, and other items. I remember my Mother Lena driving up to the gas pump and asking for a "dollar's worth" of gas for their old Ford Car."

Mayor Wanda McCoy of Roseland commented on the image. She confirmed that it was Aunt Alberta's and Uncle "Kid" Irving's grocery store. According to her, she had no idea it was still standing. I was intrigued to see that the post was shared thirty-three times, which generated fifty-six comments, as well as one hundred and sixty-five likes. The Irving family was entrepreneurs and owned lots of land. 

Others who shared memories were Adoncia Blevins Dyson. She said her grandmother Clara Irving walked them by the building and told them stories about the good old days. Russel Madre said he photographed that old gas station a few times. Matter of fact, someone said that a picture of the old store and gas station can be found hanging up at North Oak Hospital in Hammond, LA.

Tangipahoa Parish local historian Dr. Antoinette Harrell is on a mission to explore all 64 Louisiana Parishes

Joyce Wildlife Swampwalk

Playing house and playing with baby dolls was not my favorite activity as a child. I enjoyed exploring my family's twenty-acre property in Amite, Louisiana. Playing the role of an explorer was one of my favorite activities. The red clay pond was about sixty feet deep.  We enjoyed climbing into the red clay pond and talking loudly to hear our echoes. When our mother asked us where we had been, we could tell by the red dirt stains on our clothes. In spite of the fact that she did not want us climbing into the pond. In addition, she expressed concern about the snakes that live in the deep h

Just the idea of exploring and taking an adventure was exciting enough for me. To this day, I am still exploring and taking adventures. Earlier this year, I decided to explore all sixty-four Louisiana Parishes. So far I have toured forty-nine parishes. I wanted to explore the history, culture, food, music, museums, art galleries, and historic sites. I also wanted to meet the local people who call Louisiana their home. I wanted to learn something about each parish so that I would leave with a more comprehensive understanding of each parish and the state I call home. 

Whenever I visit the historic district, I find myself admiring the old buildings and Victorian homes. I explore the little stores, eat at local diners and bakeries, and talk to the friendly locals. I also take the time to admire the natural beauty of the countryside. I find a sense of peace and tranquility on the back roads that I don't get on the interstate. As I started my journey, I was overwhelmed by the beauty, diversity, and vibrancy of Louisiana. I met wonderful people, experienced unique cultures, and gained a better understanding of my state. I am truly blessed to have had the opportunity to explore and adventure in Louisiana. Getting off the interstate and traveling the back roads offers so much to me. 

St. Martin Swamp Tour

I compare the northern part of the state to the south end of the state. I enjoy the contrast between the two areas. I also find a sense of serenity in the beauty of nature that both the northern and the southern end of the state offer. With my Canon camera, iPhone, and iPad, I set out to take photographs of the scenery, people, events, wildlife, and other places. I share my images and my short documentary on all my social media platforms. Many people are thankful for the images and videos. They inspire me to keep sharing because it allows them to see places through my lenses and my journey. I'm passionate about capturing nature's beauty, and I hope my images can bring joy and inspiration to others. I'm also grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with others. I'm glad I can use my skills to bring attention to Louisiana's beauty.

The next parishes I plan to visit are Cameron, Vermilion, Calcasieu, and Beauregard. Cameron is situated in Louisiana's southwest corner. Cameron Parish is the largest parish in the state and is known for its abundance of wildlife, marshlands, and beautiful beaches. Vermilion Parish is located to the northeast of Cameron Parish and is surrounded by the Vermilion River and the Gulf of Mexico. Calcasieu Parish is located to the south of Cameron Parish and is known for its vibrant economy and its many attractions. Beauregard Parish is located to the north of Cameron Parish and is known for its natural resources and outdoor activities.

St. Francisville Museum
West Feliciana Parish

Harold J. Smith, Thruway Street Dedication and Recognition of Frank Edwards Substation

Renaming of the 9th Street
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

A street was named for Harold J. Smith, the first elected African-American official in the Town of Kentwood. He served as a council member for three terms before being elected Mayor of Kentwood for three terms. During Smith's career, he served for a total of twenty-four years. As an advocate for equity and diversity, his legacy continues to be celebrated in the town. Many people view Smith as an inspirational leader and a role model. As a memorial to his work and legacy, his name adorns what was known as 9th Street. The new name is Harold J. Smith Thruway. 

Every time someone passes by, they are reminded of his positive impact on the community. His memory will never be forgotten. Harold's example reminds us that anyone can make a difference and that hard work and dedication can pay off. He inspires future generations and is a reminder that positive change is possible. Smith was delighted to see so many of his friends, colleagues, and family members. 

His legacy showed us that people can come together to achieve great things, no matter how small the action. We must remember his legacy and use it to continue to strive for progress and positive change. Smith's granddaughters unveiled the Harold J. Smith Thruway street sign. The event was attended by a number of elected officials. Mayor Irma T. Gordon welcome all the guest and attendee on behalf of the Town of Kentwood. Representative Robby Carter and Senator Beth Mizell presented a resolution.  Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller spoke about the greatness of our parish.  As a result of wildfires in several parishes, Governor John Bel Edwards was unable to attend the event. In spite of the governor's absence, the event was a success. In his place a speech was delivered by State Senator Cleo Fields, District 14.  Smith's life and achievements were truly celebrated.  During the event, Smith spoke a few words. He concluded by thanking the attendees and expressing his gratitude. The event ended with applause and cheers.

In conjunction with the renaming of the street. The Substation was named in honor of Frank Edwards, Sr., Collis Temple.Jr., recognized Frank Edwards, Sr., who served as sheriff for Tangipahoa Parish from 1968 to 1980. He also served as a delegate to the 1973 Louisiana Constitutional Convention. Edwards is the father of Governor John Bel Edwards. All of his children were present except for Governor Edwards. + His son Daniel Edwards spoke. 

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Harold J. Smith Thruway
Dedication Ceremony
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Agricultural education is a key focus of St. Helena AG for Kids

St. Helena AG Day
Photo Credit: Nicholas Muse

Kids and agriculture play an important role in shaping the future of our food system. Teaching children about agriculture not only helps them understand where their food comes from but also instills in them a sense of responsibility towards the environment and the importance of sustainable farming practices. Nicholas Muse, Southern University Agricultural Center, Assistant Area Agent organized his first Ag event in Amite, Louisiana, The event was well attended and very successful. 

St. Helena Ag Day engage children in agricultural activities that was educational and  a enjoyable experience. It allows them to learn about the different stages of plant growth, the importance of soil health, and the impact of weather conditions on crops. Moreover, it teaches them valuable life skills such as patience, perseverance, and problem-solving.

One way to introduce kids to agriculture is through school gardens. These gardens provide a hands-on learning experience where children can plant, nurture, and harvest their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs. They learn about the various types of plants, the requirements of each plant, and the techniques involved in gardening. Additionally, children gain an understanding of the nutritional value of fresh produce and the benefits of consuming locally grown food.

Kids with livestock
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Another avenue for kids to explore agriculture is through educational farm visits. This summer Muse 3

Farm  in Greensburg, La., provide tours for  summer campers. These visits allow children to interact with farmers, observe farm animals, and experience farm life firsthand. They learned about the different types of farming and livestock farming. The hand on tour help them to  understand the processes involved in producing food.  Seeing the hard work and dedication of farmers, children develop a greater appreciation for the food on their plates. Some activities included drone flying and incorporating technology in farming. 

Furthermore, involving kids in community-supported agriculture programs can deepen their understanding of sustainable farming practices. These programs allow families to support local farmers by purchasing a share of the harvest. Children can participate in activities such as picking up produce, sorting vegetables, or even helping with farmers' markets. This involvement helps kids appreciate the efforts that go into producing food and fosters a connection with local agriculture.

In conclusion, St. Helena Ag Day and all the sponsors understand the importance of teaching kids how to embrace gardening and farming. One thing I want to point out is none of the children was entertained by their cellphones. They all were very engaged in all the activities of the day. Nicholas Muse and Zanetta Augustine, Assistant Agricultural Specialist for Southern University Cooperative Extension, Agriculture & Natural Resource Program made this event very informative and hands on for all who attended St. Helena AG Day.

Nicholas Muse
Southern University Agricultural Center, Assistant Area Agent
Photo Credit: Nicholas Muse Facebook page

Farming and Gardners in the Louisiana Florida Parishes

A tireless effort led by Dr. Antoinette Harrell to establish African American collections at the Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies

Left to right: Alex Richardson, Dr. Antoinette Harrell, 
Earl Richardson, Jr., Dr. Valarie Richardson
Photo Credit: Eddie Ponds

Dr. Antoinette Harrell's leadership and expertise has played a crucial role in establishing five African American Collections at the Center for Southeast University Studies. Her commitment to preserving and promoting African American history and culture has been invaluable to the institution. Currently, she is assisting the Vernon School Committee of Washington Parish in preserving the school's history before integration. The collection would include photographs of the school's alumni, faculty, staff, and school reunion booklets, letters, etc.

Under Dr. Harrell's guidance, the University has made significant strides in collecting and curating artifacts, documents, and artworks that highlight the rich contributions of African Americans made to Tangipahoa, St. Helena, East Feliciana, and Washington Parishes. These collections serve as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and perseverance of the African American community.

Through her leadership, Dr. Harrell has ensured that these collections are accessible to students, researchers, and the general public. She has implemented innovative strategies to digitize and catalog the materials for anyone to explore and learn from. This has not only expanded the reach of the collections but has also encouraged further research and scholarship in the field of African American studies in the four  Louisiana Florida Parishes.

Eddie Ponds and his daughter Sharon Ponds
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

In addition to her work in establishing the collections, Dr. Harrell has also been instrumental in organizing exhibitions, lectures, and events that celebrate African American history and culture. These initiatives have not only provided a platform for dialogue and education but have also fostered a sense of inclusivity and diversity on campus.

Dr. Harrell's leadership has not only transformed the University's African American Collections but has also had a broader impact on the academic community. Her dedication and passion for promoting African American history and culture have inspired other institutions and individuals to follow suit, ensuring that this important aspect of our collective heritage is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.

In conclusion, Dr. Antoinette Harrell's leadership in establishing the African American Collections at the University has been exemplary. Her tireless efforts to preserve, promote, and educate about African American history and culture have made a lasting impact on the institution and the wider academic community. Through her vision and dedication, Dr. Harrell has created a legacy that will continue to inspire and educate future generations. 

The link to the five collection can be found below.

Antoinette Harrell Collection

https://www.southeastern.edu/acad_research/programs/csls/historical_collections/archival_collections/h_k/harrell_collection.html

Richardson Funeral Home Collection

https://www.southeastern.edu/acad_research/programs/csls/historical_collections/archival_collections/r_s/richardson_funeral_home/

Bernice Alexander Bennett Collection

https://www.southeastern.edu/acad_research/programs/csls/historical_collections/archival_collections/a_b/bernice_alexander_bennett.html

Dr. Kingsley B. Garrison Collection

https://www.southeastern.edu/acad_research/programs/csls/historical_collections/archival_collections/e_g/garrisonkingsleyb.html

Eddie and Carrie Wells Pond Collection

In process of being archived

Genealogist, local historian visited Laurel Valley Sugar Plantation grandson

Connor visiting Laurel Valley Planation
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

In the early hours of the morning on a  beautiful Sunday, Eddie Ponds, owner, and publisher of The Drum Newspaper, along with my grandson Connor and I visited the Laurel Valley Plantation. This historic sugarcane plantation is located in Thibodaux and has been operating for over one hundred and fifty years. A short video on YouTube about Laurel Valley Plantation made me want to visit it as soon as possible. It wasn't long before that day came. It's an hour and forty-five-minute drive from my house, so that wasn't too far to travel on such a lovely Sunday morning. 

The plantation covers about 3,400 acres and includes   several outbuildings, and slave quarters. The plantation was established in 1830 by Joseph Tucker, a Virginian, who purchased more than 50, 000 acres of land along beautiful Bayou Lafourche. African enslaved people, as well as their descendants, worked on the plantation for decades until the Civil War ended. Currently, the plantation offers guided tours that focus on the history of the plantation's enslaved and their lives while working and living there.

Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about sugarcane cultivation, the history of the plantation, and
the daily lives of the enslaved people who lived there. The plantation also hosts events throughout the year, including a fall festival and a Christmas open house. At present, the property is still being used as a sugarcane farm.  Plantations like this are still profitable today. During our drive past the cabins, I could not help but think about how life must have been for those enslaved during those times. As I pondered the hardships they endured, I felt a deep ache in my heart. I thought about how little had changed in the years since they were freed from the chains of slavery. I felt a deep sadness for their suffering and a sense of helplessness in the face of such injustice. 

My grandson and I discussed the experience on our way home. He pointed out that seeing the cabins made him think about what it was like living as an enslaved person and how hard they had it.He found it difficult to wrap his head around the idea of being a slave, and the immense amount of courage and strength it must have taken to endure such hardship. "Looking at the small cabins, I couldn't help but think about the number of people living in them," said Connor. He was amazed by the courage and strength of the former enslaved and was humbled by the freedom he has today. "I was filled with admiration for those who had to endure such difficult living conditions," Connor reflected. He pointed out how he clearly understood why he shouldn't take anything for granted. I hope that he share what he learned with his siblings and friends.

The issues of Critical Race Theory and the removal of historical truths from classrooms really emphasize to me why I must continue teaching my grandchildren about their history. It was time to take the history class on the road. This experience has made me even more passionate about ensuring that my grandchildren learn the correct version of historyso that they can better understand the reality of the world they live in. I have been able to provide them with an in-depth understanding of how the past has shaped the present and how our actions today will shape our future. Teaching them the truth has been an invaluable experience and I look forward to continuing this journey with my grandchildren.

Antoinette Harrell visiting Laurel Valley Plantation
Photo Credit: Connor LaCoste

Explore local swamp with the family

Lake Martin, Louisiana 
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Over the past few years, I have taken several swamp tours in different Louisiana Parishes. The peacefulness and beauty of each of them are undeniable. I enjoy taking pictures of wildlife and beautiful scenes in nature. Capturing the ghostly image projected by Spanish moss draped over Bald Cypress trees.

Looking for a fun and exciting day out for the kids? Look no further than swamp tours! A swamp tour is an adventure that takes you through the wetlands and provides a unique and fun experience for the whole family.

If you're planning to take a swamp tour, be careful to select the right time of day based on the season. Early spring is my favorite time to take a tour. I prefer early morning hours or late evening. For instance, in the spring, early morning hours offer cooler temperatures and less humidity, while late evening hours provide the chance to observe wildlife. You should also keep in mind that the type of wildlife you will encounter on your tour will depend heavily on the time of day chosen. Morning tours will be best for bird watching, while evening tours will be better for alligators and other nocturnal animals. Don't forget to bring mosquito repellent. Mosquitoes inhabit swamps. Matter of fact, I make should that I do not wear any body lotions or fragrances that will attract bugs and other insects. Make your trip exciting for your children by bringing binoculars and a camera. In preparation for the trip, discuss the kinds of wildlife they might see, the types of birds that inhabit the swamps, etc.

Lake Martin Swamp Tour

The guides are knowledgeable and can help to explain the importance of the wetlands and the need to protect and preserve them. They can also show kids how to safely observe the wildlife without disturbing them. The tours are a great way to teach kids about the environment, and they provide an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Take the opportunity to observe unique wildlife, take photos, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Swamps are a great way to get in touch with nature and observe wildlife in its natural habitat. It is also a great way to bond with family as you explore and experience something new together.

The swamp tours I took with my children and grandchildren were a lot of fun. They got a chance to hold a baby alligator. I think they enjoyed it a lot. It was a great opportunity to make memories that will last a lifetime while  observing wildlife up close, explore the wetlands, and learn about the diverse ecosystem of the area - all while having a great time! 

Antoinette Harrell
Touring Lake Martin Swamp

St. Helena Parish's Legendary Vegetable Farmer's Field Day at Warner Hall's Farm

Warner Hall
Local Farmer, St. Helena Parish

Early this morning, I drove out to St. Helena Parish's Legendary Vegetable Farmer's Field Day to take part in the event. A number of representatives from the SU Agricultural Center, LSU Agricultural Center, USDA, and WCSHC were present at this event. In order to capture some photographs of the garden and nature scenes before the crowd poured in I arrived early. The atmosphere was vibrant, with old friends greeting each other and new friends forming connections. It was truly a great day to be a part of the agriculture community.

The weather that day was slightly overcast, so I was able to take some photographs. Weather-wise, I could not have asked for a better day.  The mild temperatures and overcast skies made for perfect shooting conditions. His farm has a lot of vegetables that I took pictures of. The acres of land are covered with rows of corn, squash, cucumbers, green bell peppers, strawberries, watermelons, and eggplants.

The therapeutic nature of gardening was emphasized by a retired couple I met at the event. They both agreed that tending to their garden was a calming and peaceful activity that had become an integral part of their everyday routine. I can assure you that every word spoken here is correct. When I'm working in my garden it is relaxing and therapeutic for me. 

Members of the Winston County Self Help Cooperative (WCSHC) drove 3 1/2 hours from Lexington, Mississippi to attend this educational agricultural event. A group of Winston County Self-Help Cooperative members traveled three and a half hours from Lexington, Mississippi to attend this agricultural educational event. The event was attended by other local farmers who shared and learned. Sharing farming tips is something they never hesitate to do with each other. 

The free agricultural education material I received was much appreciated.  I walked away with a pack of Wildflowers Mixture for Natural Landscaping which is distributed by the USDA. I am interested in learning more about pollinators and how they work. It is estimated that three-fourth of all flowering plants in the world require pollinators in order to reproduce and survive. There is no doubt that animal pollination is necessary for the majority of vegetables, fruits, and seed crops, as well as other plants that are used for fiber, medicine, and fuel production.  Insect pollinators like butterflies, bees, birds, moths, bats, beetles, and ants contribute significantly to the existence of many of the foods we eat on a daily basis. The type of educational agricultural events is important. 

Warner Hall's farm
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Genetic testing is used by enslaved descendants on Richardson plantation to determine their family relationships

Carl Richardson Descendants

My maternal grandmother's surname name is Richardson. Throughout my childhood, I was acquainted with my grandmother's siblings. My mother frequently shared stories about her mother's relatives and their history. Josephine Richardson, along with her siblings, was born and raised in Montpelier, Louisiana, which is an unincorporated community located in St. Helena Parish. My research delved into the ancestry of my Richardson family, with a focus on my great-grandparents Thomas and Emma Vining Richardson. Through the United States Census, I uncovered valuable information about their lives. Specifically, I discovered that Thomas and his siblings resided in a household with their parents, Thomas and Amanda Breland Richardson.

As I was going through the inventory of the Benjamin and Celia Bankston Richardson Plantation, I found out that my ancestor Carrie and her son Thomas were among the twenty-three enslaved individuals listed. It got me thinking if any of the other enslaved people were related to Carrie. Could one of the women have been her mother, or perhaps her brother or sister? I know of another Richardson family in Tangipahoa Parish, and their ancestral origins are in St. Helena Parish. According to some, we may be related based on oral history, while others dispute this claim. The only sure way to settle this is to undergo a DNA test. Supt. Jimmy Richardson took the Ancestry DNA to get answers.

  Carl Richardson and Joseph Richardson
Descendants

Thomas, son of Carrie, is my maternal 3rd great-grandfather. It was discovered during the inventory
following Benjamin's death in 1855 that Carrie was only twenty years old at the time. The plantation inventory also listed a young man named Nathan, who was fifteen years old then. Nathan later fathered a son named Andrew Richardson. Supt. Jimmy Richardson descends from Nathan Richardson. Recently, my friend Lorraine Lizana informed me that her lineage connects to Thomas and Rebecca Richardson. Through Lorraine, I discovered that her ancestors Thomas and Rebecca are buried in the same cemetery as my 2nd great-grandparents Thomas and Amanda. All of them have been laid to rest in Rocky Hill A.M.E. Church Cemetery. Lorraine descends from Alfred Richardson lineage. Alfred was on the same plantation with Carrie, and Nathan.

Last year, we had individuals whose ancestors were Richardson from Tangipahoa Parish travel to Louisiana to establish a Richardson connection. Their ancestors Carl Richardson's ancestors descends from Louisiana. Their ancestors had to leave the south and they never returned to call Louisiana home again.  

Continuing with the genealogy investigation of Thomas Richardson's lineage, we have discovered another Thomas Richardson, Melbourne McNealty's father Joseph often shared stories about his Richardson relatives. After conducting additional genealogical research, it was discovered that Melbourne's ancestor Thomas arrived in New Orleans aboard a vessel called the State. He was sold to a plantation in St. Francisville, Louisiana.  

I had a conversation with a young named Fagan Davis who shared with me that his family linage traces back to a Richardson family in St. Helena Parish. I asked him about the possibility of taking the Ancestry DNA test to establish and familial connection between us. He suggested that I test his mother who is the daughter of Willie Richardson instead of him. His mother agreed and took the test and now we are presently waiting for the results to come back. After receiving the DNA results, it is important to thoroughly compare and analyze them. To facilitate this process, I plan to schedule a Zoom meeting for everyone to share their DNA matches. This is especially necessary due to the historical separation of families caused by slavery, which often leads to roadblocks in our search for answers.

Earl Richardson, Sr., Dr. Antoinete Harrell, and Supt. Jimmy Richardson, Sr. 
Taking the Ancestry DNA test