"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