Big Zion AME Zion Church fifty years members

Mrs. Emma Picken, was born in 1892 and died in 1976. She is buried in Big Zion Cemetery. Mrs. Idella Cosby was born in 1889. Her time of death is unknown. Mrs. Lilly Harrison Zanders was born in 1891 and died in 1975. She was married to Edward Zanders and they lived in Roseland, Louisiana, according to the 1950 United States Federal Census. Mrs. Rose Curry was born in 1894, she as married to Oscar Curry. 

Source: Amite Genealogy Library

Rev. & Mrs. Hollis Callahan

Rev. Hollis Callahan was the Presiding Elder of Big Zion African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church in 1971.  Big Zion Church is the oldest Black Church in Tangipahoa Parish. Rev. Hollis was born around 1905 in Roseland, Louisiana. He was the son of  Sam and Virginia Callahan. His siblings were; Aluman, Emma, James M., Daniella, Della, Rosetta, Herman, and William according to the 1910 United States Federal Census. Rev. Hollis Callahan died in 1999. He is buried in Big Zion Cemetery.

Source: Dedicatory Service Booklet (1971) Amite Genealogy Library

Life Celebration for Josephine Jackson

Josephine Jackson
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

I was the last sibling of 18 children born to John and Mattie Banks Jackson on August 25, 197. I grew up in Rocky Hill community of Greensburg, LA. My Christian life began at an early age of thirteen at Rocky Hill A.M.E. Church in Greensburg, LA. Later I moved to Grant Chapel A.M.E. in Amite with my one year old daughter Beatrice in 1935.

On this life journey I began my father business by working in the church. I served diligently as an Usher, Choir member, Class leader for Board One and Two. Trustee Board Missionary, Stewardess and Church Delegate to the Annual Conference. I worked because I was saved not because I was trying to get saved.

I was employed my entire life as domestic aide and nanny to the Stern's family children for many generations. The Stern's were prominent entrepreneurs, owners of the former Stern's Department Store of Amite. I traveled throughout the United States with then as a nanny, a preparer of gourmet meals and the management of the home, being exposed to antique furnished and gracious living, etc. I met many people along the way in my life and tried to reflect these things in the way I lived, shared, and served in eloquence and dignity. I also served for thirty-nine years with the Stella Chapter #2 Eastern Star beginning on May 14, 1974. I thank God for the good, bag, ugly, pretty and all he allowed me to be during this life long journey. To God be the Glory.

Celebration of Life of Mrs. Willie Mae Perry "Mae Mae" 2017

Willie Mae Perry
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

Willie Mae Perry's earthly season began on October 22, 1921, when she was born to Alberta Caston and reared by Rev. D.J. Campbell, Sr.  She received her formal education in the Amite County School System in Liberty, Mississippi.  

In May, 1939, she married Louise Wilson, Sr., and the union was blessed with six amazing children. This season started the sowing of foundation and framework of success in which her family members developed and flourished. Willie Mae confessed hope in Christ early in life. As a member of Fluker Chapel Church, she was honored for faithful service rendered as the President of the Usher Board. She also served as missionary.

Willie Mae continued to sow good deeds as a member of the Eastern Star; this distinguished gentlewoman gave inspiration to many through her high ideals, morals, and deep concern for her fellow citizens. On August 25, 1968, she married Jimmie Perry, Sr., and resided in Amite, LA. Later she joined Grant's Chapel A.M.E. Church.

The angels of heaven received Willie Mae on Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at Hood Memorial Hospital. She had won the battle and the season of transition to her heavenly home began. As you say goodbye to Willie Mae, remember her as a Centenarian with magnanimous faith, an unimpeachable reputation for integrity, intelligence, fairness and kindness. She graced the world with her inner and outer beauty that resonated in everything she did. 

Wille Mae leaves to cherish her memories, her six children: Nora, Louis, Jr., (Edna), Delores, Bobbie Jean, Joe (Annie Bell), and Dallas; grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and a host of extended family, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Sister Yvonne Doughty Warren 2010

Yvonne Doughty Warren
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

Yvonne Doughty Warren, the 3rd child out of fifteen, was born May 11, 1937 in St. Helena Parish to the late Herman and Irene Vining Doughty. She departed this life on Monday, May 10, 2010 at 9:05 p.m. at North Oaks Medical Center. She was raised in a Christian home and was taught strong Christian values. She impacted and positively influenced every life that she came into contact with.  

She began her education in St.  Helena Parish Schools and later moved to New Orleans, LA. where she graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. Following graduation she returned to Amite, LA where she met the love of her life Brother Robert Warren. They were united in Holy Matrimony on August 10, 1957 and from this union they were blessed with seven children.

She leaves to cherish here husband Robert Warren; two daughters, Denise Warren Scott (Gaines) of La Porte, Texas and Demetria Warren Bullock (Darrell) of Houston, Texas; five sons, Gistand Robert Earl, Walter (Devonda), Brian (Toy), Quest (Veronica) Warren; Four sisters, Pearlean Alexander, Alma (Jessie) Jackson of Amite, Louisiana; three brother, Elder John ( Louise) Doughty of Amite, Louisiana, Elder Freddie (Carolyn) Doughty and Stanley (Amy) Doughty of La Porte, Texas; 18 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; one adopted sister; Pastor Shirley Patterson of Mississippi; two sister-in-laws, Janice Doughty of Amite,  Louisiana  and Delores Doughty of Montpelier, Louisiana; two aunts, Ruby Jackson and Viola Vining and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Herman and Irene Vining Doughty, six brother, Herman Jr., Esko, Leroy, Samuel, the late Pastor Bert Doughty, Kenneth, one adopted brother Willie Pelt and one adopted sister Sis. Thelma Fisher.

Homegoing Celebration of Sis. Etta Mae Zanders 2021

Etta Mae Zanders
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

On Wednesday, December 22, 2021. Sis Etta Mae Zanders was called home to Glory to rest peacefully with her Heavenly Father at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. What a blessing it had been to celebrate 93 years of life. Sis Etta Mae Zanders was born September 11, 1928 to Reba Thomas and George McCoy. She graduated from Big Zion. After graduating from high school. Sis. Etta Mae started working at Ms. Muffs. After many years of working she met the love other life Willie Zanders. On December 16, 1948 they were joined in Holy Matrimony and to their union Gwen Zanders Earlycutt, Jimmy Zanders, Karen Jackson, and Terry Zanders. She leaves to cherish a devoted caring granddaughter Breelyn Jackson, she was always on call. Her one and only sister Adriene, her daughter Terry, her son Jimmy, her son-in-law, Berin Jackson, a sister-in-law Gertrude Williams of New Orleans, Louisiana. Sis. Etta Mae will always be loved and cherished by a host of grands, nieces, cousins.

Sis Etta Mae was baptized at an early age and was faithful and active member of Grant Chapel. She was on the Usher Board, Women's Missionary Society, a stewardess, and a faithful supporter of the YPD. She attended Grant Chapel until her health started declining. She was a faithful tither and giver. She was known to be Reverend Bartley's dancing partner. She wasn't afraid to dance and give God praise.

She was preceded in death byre parents George and Reba McCoy. Her husband Willie Zanders. Her daughters Gwen Earlycutt and Karen Jackson. Her niece Elaine Spears, grandson Nicholas Earlyctt and a host of other family members.

The Going Home Celebration of Mr. Fred Phillip McCoy

Fred Phillip McCoy
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

Brother Fred Phillip McCoy, Jr. was born tote late Fred Phillip McCoy and Zadine Robinson McCoy on April 6, 1929, in Amite, Louisiana. He was the ninth child of ten, five sons, and five daughters. He departed this life on February  23, 2006. 

He was united in Holy matrimony to Vernia Garrett on December 24, 1955. To this union, three children were born. He was a dutiful husband and a devoted father. He confessed his love for Christ at a very young age. He was a life long member of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church in Amite, Louisiana. There he served in many capacities such as church secretary, treasurer, trustee and many other duties. 

He served in the U. S. Army during the Korean War era where he receive many military honors, including the Purple Heart. He received many military honor including the Purple Heart. He received his education from public schools in Tangipahoa parish and Orleans parish. Fred was promoted from eighth grade to college, through the GED program, not having to complete high school. He received his higher education from Southern University A & M, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He taught public school in the Tangipahoa School District. Later, he received his principalship at Midway Middle School in Natalabany, Louisiana. He retired in 1986 with 25 years of service. He also received the NAACP Life Superior Achiever Award in February 2005.

He leaves to cherish his memories, a loving devoted wife of 50 years; on son, Roderick Black McCoy, Sr. of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; three daughters, Corine Warren McCoy of Tracy, CA.,  Zandra Michelle McCoy of Amite, LA and Samaria Vandarose McCoy of Mesquite, TX; Johnnie M. McCoy, a niece raised by Fred and Vernia; six grandchildren; Fealty Starlingnad Sherelle Warren of CA, Roderick Jr., Lorenzo and Tracheal McCoy of Baton Rouge, LA; and Chardan McCoy of Amite, LA; three great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousin, other relatives and friends. He was affectionately called "Paw-Paw" by many and T.C.B" by others.

Celebrating the Homegoing of Xavier "Zabo" Smith Jr. 2012

Xavier' Zabo" Smith, Jr., was born to the late Xavier, Sr. "Zab" & Daisy Morris Smith on March 26, 1921. He was educated in the Tangipahoa Parish Public School. He served in the United States Army from 1942 to 1946. He was a veteran of World War II.

Xavier "Zabo" Smith, Jr. 
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

He was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Helen Leonard Smith and of this union three children was born; Sarah Ann, Diane, and Faye Ruth.  Brother Zabo was converted and baptized at an early age at Grant Chapel AME Church in Amite, Louisiana which was the beginning of many years of dedicated service to God. He served on many auxiliaries of the Church. Bo. Zabo served as a Trustee when the new church was built and many years after.

Bro. Zabo attended upholster school and upon completion, he opened his own upholster shop. Later, he went into the monument work until his health began to fail. Hew as a jack of all trades. He loved fishing, hunting, raising animals and baseball. He also loved gardening and growing vegetables. He enjoyed sharing the vegetables with the community.

To cherish his memory: Two daughters, Sarah Ann of Amite, LA., Faye Ruth, Los Angeles, CA; one sister, Yvonne S. Coleman, Amite; 11 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren; 19 great-great grandchildren; one special grandson Demond McNealthy; one special nephew, Robert Coleman; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

He was preserved in death by his wife Helen Leonard Smith, a daughter, Diane Smith Chamber, a son, Ronnie Smith, two grand daughters, Rocquell Smith and Dianna McNealty; his parents Xavier "Zab" & Daisy Morris Smith; three brothers; Glenn, Clarence and Earl Smith; one sister; Dorothy Mae Smith  Himes. 

In Loving Memory of Beverly Ann-Irving-Walls 2018

Beverly Ann Irving-Walls
Source: Funeral Program
Courtesy of Mrs. Helen Lucky

Beverly Ann Irving Walls was born May 17, 1946 to Melvin and Katie Thomas Irving at Lallie Kemp Memorial Hospital in Independence, LA. Beverly attended West Side School in Amite where she graduated in 1964. She continued her education at Southern University where se earned a Bachelors degree in Business.

Affectionally know as "Beverly Ann" she was loved by all of those that knew her. She was great daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Beverly was know for her kind heart and her fancy l lifestyle. Her family sometimes call here "Mrs. Hollywood." She was definitely the caviar of the family. Shew as raised and until death attended Grants Chapel A.M.E. Zion were she served faithfully. 

Beverly was married to Lynne Walls in the year of 1971. She broke the racial barrier in 1970 when she became the first African American to be employed by the Tangipahoa Assessors Office. She departed there in 1980 then she began to work at the Office of Family Support.

Beverly leaves to cherish here memory her brother, McKinley Irving, Sr. (Barbara) and Norman John Irving both of Amite, La. Although she was the middle child of three, she was raised closely with special cousin that were like sisters and bother, Lizzie Louise Thomas of Baton Rouge, La, Lille Mae Thomas of Los Angeles, California, Carol Walter and Larry Thomas of Amite, La.. She had a host of nieces and nephews that she cared greatly for. Beverly was proceeded in death by her father Melvin Irving and her mother Katie Thomas Irving.

Homegoing Celebration of Bernard Lawson 2016

Bernard Lawson
Source: Funeral Program
Mrs. Helen Lucky

Bernard Lawson quietly departed this life in the early morning hours on Sunday, January 2, 2011 at North Oaks Medical Center. He was born on October 21, 1921 and was 89 years old. Bernard was the only child born to the late Modena Loving Lawson and Booker T. Lawson in Amite,  Louisiana.

He accepts Christ at an early age and was a faithful member of Grant Chapel A.M.E. Church all of his life.  He was known for his dedication and dependability and received great satisfaction from his services to others. Bernard served as Sunday School Superintendent for more than 25 years. He also served as president at one time. In addition to his responsibilities to the Sunday School, he would see to it that the church building was always comfortable for use, regardless of the weather; he would make sure the doors were opened and lock and that the lights would be turned on and off for any activity going on in church.

Bernard served his country for three years in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. He was was employed for a period of time with the Tangiphaoa Parish Health Unit and the Amite Nursing Home. He was also and exemplary volunteer for many years with the Tangipahoa Parish Council on Aging and served willingly in any capacity needed.

Having been a lifelong resident of the Ried's Quarter community, he was known for his cheerful attitude and sweet disposition. He loved to sing and strike harmonies with a tenor voice so distinct that it would stand out in a chorus.

He leaves to cherish his memory several first cousin, of whom Queen V. York served as a caretaker for many years; and a host of other cousin, relatives and friends. His Godchildren, Rev. Kenneth D. York and Deanne Foster, will miss him greatly. He was preceded in death by his parents. 

Zachariah Halsey a native of Ponchatoula, LA

Photo Courtesy Cedric Dangerfield
Zachariah Halsey and his wife Mary with their
two daughters. Celica sitting in her
father lap and Theresa in her mother lap 

Zachariah Halsey was born in January of 1821 in North Carolina. He married Mary Byrd in 1880 in Tangipahoa Parish. Zack died in June of 1915. His 3rd great grandson Cedric Dangerfield contacted me to inform me that his 3rd great-grandfather was a member  of Tasker Zion AME church in Ponchatoula. He also recalled attending the funeral service of family members there. 

In Cedric's home, this photograph hangs on the wall. Every time Cedric looked at the photograph, it reminded him of the love and joy his 3rd great-parents shared, and it served as a beautiful tribute to their memory.   The photograph not only captured a moment in time but also preserved Cedric's family history. It served as a tangible connection to his roots, allowing him to feel a sense of belonging and understanding of his ancestors' experiences. It was an absolute pleasure for him to share this photograph with me and the readers, as well as the oral history he received from other family members.

Chase visited the National Civil Rights Museum with his grandmother Dr. Antoinette Harrell

National Civil Rights Museum
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

"A visit to the National Civil Rights Museum was the perfect way for my grandson Chase's homeschool history class to learn about the Civil Rights Movement. As part of his studies, he was studying Plessy v. Ferguson.  A mixed-race man named Homer Plessy purposefully boarded a whites-only train car in New Orleans. A citation was issued for violating Louisiana's Separate Car Act of 1980, which requires railroad accommodations to be equal by separate." 

Several discussions about Jim Crow laws were sparked by this. He learned a lot about that period from reading and viewing short films about the movement. On board the bus that reenacted Rosa Park, he was told to move to the rear of the bus. He was captivated by this history field trip. As he read the historic signs in front of the Lorraine Hotel, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968, I watched him.  He stood watching and reading instantly. He stood watching and reading intensely. His intense focus indicated a deep engagement and concentration. It was as though Chase desired to fully immerse himself in the experience. Whatever the reason, his desire to fully immerse himself in the experience revealed a hunger for connection and understanding of a difficult time in our history. While driving home, he expressed some of his thoughts and asked questions. As he pondered these questions, he couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility to learn from the past. He also wanted to contribute to a better future because of all the sacrifices others made for him. Not to mention those who gave their lives so he could live a better life. 

Chase at the National Civil Rights Museum
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

During our visit to the Freedom Rider Bus, he learned how the bus was targeted by a mob targeted against
civil rights activists protesting against racial segregation. This history field trip helped him learn many history lessons that he was not taught in class. The history field trip to the National Civil Rights Museum had a profound impact on Chase's understanding of the Civil Rights Movement. Through immersive experiences, such as reenactments and exploring historic sites, he gained a deeper appreciation for the struggles and sacrifices made by activists during that time. This hands-on learning experience brought the history lessons to life and left a lasting impression on Chase's education.

Carter's genealogy road trip with his grandmother Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Carter researching family history at the Amite
Genealogy Library in Amite. 
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

My youngest grandson Carter and I spent four days last week sharing oral and family history. We sought out his Richardson and Vining at the clerk's office of St. Helena Parish. It was explained to him what type of records can be found in the clerk's office. His search included land records, succession records, and marriage records. He found his 6th great-grandfather Frank Vining in the inventory of Jesse and Martha Vining. His difficulty in reading cursive writing was highlighted by Carter. Our next stop was Big Zion Cemetery in Roseland, where his Harrell ancestors are buried. I wanted him to visit the gravesite of his 6th great-grandfather Robert Harrell. He learned how to search for Robert Harrell's death records using the microfilm at the Louisiana State Archive the day before. He was born in 1821 and died in 1921. Carter was excited to see such records. Afterward, we drove to the homestead where Robert Harrell lived in Amite, Louisiana. He walked on the ground where his ancestors once lived. The land have been in the Harrell family since 1896. I shared my childhood memories with him growing up on the land with my family and how much fun me and my three brothers had. 

Big Zion Cemetery
Alexander Harrell gravesite
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

On the third day, we visited the Amite Genealogy Library to conduct genealogy research. . He searched for his paternal and maternal ancestors using census records on Ancestry.  He found family on his father's and mother's side. Carter was excited and wanted to continue researching. He had to stop due to an interview with his 3rd paternal cousin Monteral Harrell. He interviewed her about the photo collection she inherited after her father died. He carefully looked at the photographs and asked her questions about the images. With his white gloves on, he wanted to make sure he didn't leave thumbprints or damage the images. There were some images printed on tin. It was the first time he had seen such prints. Through his interview with Monteral Harrell, Carter gained valuable insights into his family's history and the significance of the inherited photo collection. He learned about the stories behind the images and how they connected to different branches of his family tree. This newfound knowledge deepened his understanding of his ancestral roots and sparked a renewed passion for his genealogy research.

Carter researching at the 
Louisiana State Archives
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

On the fourth day, he finally interviewed me about my research and started editing his next documentary for the upcoming film festival. The interview was a crucial step in his research process as it allowed me to share my findings and insights with him. I shared a keepsake package I had saved for him since his birth. It was such a surprise to see the items I saved for him. This genealogy road trip was a real history class for him. He learned about the Louisiana Florida Parishes where his ancestors lived. Who was the United States President doing the time that his 6th great-grandfathers was living. We discussed Women Suffrage and Jim Crow Laws, etc. 

The quality of time we spent together was most important. Quality time is important for relationships because it allows me and Carter to connect on a deeper level, fostering emotional intimacy and understanding. Our bond was also strengthened, memories were created, and trust and respect were built. In a few years, he will be attending college. I know all to well what that means. So we made the best of every moment spent together.

A Tribute to Tangipahoa Parish Library Director Barry Bradford

Tangipahoa Parish Library is fortunate to have Barry Bradford as its Director. It is amazing what he has accomplished for the library under his leadership and vision. Under Barry Bradford's leadership, the Tangipahoa Parish Library has seen significant improvements in its services. Through his vision, the library system has implemented innovative programs, expanded its collection, and modernized its facilities. This makes it a valuable resource for the community. Various programs are available for children and adults. Barry actively seeks out new acquisitions and collaborates with publishers and authors. He has ensured that the library offers a wide range of books, e-books, audiobooks, and other materials to cater to the diverse interests and needs of the community. This emphasis on collection development has enhanced the library's role as a hub for learning and knowledge dissemination for all Tangipahoa patrons and beyond.  Every day, our libraries offer a wide variety of services to their patrons, from Ponchatoula to Kentwood. HeB has demonstrated strong and professional leadership. I wish to publicly acknowledge and thank him. His commitment to the library and the community has been unwavering, and his dedication has been an inspiration to us all. We are fortunate to have him at the helm for fourteen years that I can recall. His legacy will live on in the Library for years to come.  

Bringing generations together

Monteral Harrell and Carter are 3rd cousins
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

"Growing up, all generations of my family were well-connected. My great-uncles and aunts were familiar to me. My mother's second and third cousins and their children were familiar to me. I would have thought my third cousins were my first cousins if I didn't know any better. As a family, we were well connected." It seems that something has happened because the generational connection has been somewhat lost.

 My grandson Carter is producing a documentary about his family history. My maternal first cousin Monteral Harrell inherited a photograph collection of our Harrell family. I suggest Carter interview her about her collection. During the interview, she explained to him how we are related. Following that, I informed him that they are third cousins and that her two children are his fourth cousins. It will be help him to understand the family tree and where everyone fit in.

Several factors may have contributed to the loss of generational connection within families. One possible reason is the increased mobility and globalization of society, which has led to family members living in different cities, states, or even countries. Additionally, the rise of digital communication and social media may have shifted the focus of relationships towards virtual connections rather than in-person interactions. Lastly, changes in family structures and dynamics, such as divorces and remarriages, can also disrupt the traditional sense of generational connection. Or perhaps some people like being disconnected and staying to themselves. 

Monteral Harrell and Carter
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

When I was growing up family members visited each other often. Especially on Sunday afternoons after
church. Most of the women in the period I am referring to would cook and prepare their Sunday meal on Saturday evening. So that after church, the meals were prepared and ready to be served to the family and guests. That was a great way to stay in touch and to ensure that the younger generation knew one another. Although Carter knew Monteral, his documentary project helped him to spend some quality time with her discussing family history through photographs. 

Keeping the family together and bridging generation gaps are very significant. Sunday family meals not only provided an opportunity for delicious food and shared traditions, but they also fostered a sense of belonging and strengthened family bonds. Gathering around the table allowed for meaningful conversations, storytelling, and the passing down of family values and cultural heritage. These meals created a space for the younger generation to learn from their elders, fostering a sense of identity and connection that is crucial for maintaining a strong family unit.

Preserving Family Images with Monteral Harrell

Local Student Wins Big at Southern University's 2024 Livestock Show

Jh'Rhianna Dyson
Photo Courtesy: Charity M. Schaffer, Ph.D.

Congratulations to Jh’Rhianna Dyson on winning Grand Champion in the Beef Breeding and Commercial Heifers division at Southern University’s  81^st Annual Livestock and Poultry Show on February 29, 2024. Jh’Rhianna Dyson, daughter of Ms. Konisha Brumfield, and granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ricky and Elaine Brumfield of Kentwood, LA. She is a first-grade student at Spring Creek Elementary school, and this was her very first time as an exhibitor in a livestock show. 

Jh’Rhianna was trained by her grandfather, Mr. Ricky Brumfield, owner and operator of Brumfield’s Mobile Bull and 2024 Southern University Livestock Show Trailblazer honoree. She is excited about her big win and about showing next year. Jh’Rhianna, we are all so proud of you! 

Submitted by: Charity M. Schaffer, Ph.D.

Assistant Area Agent for Youth Development/4-H St. Helena/Tangipahoa

Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center

The murders of their grandfathers link Herbert Lee and Louis Allen's grandsons

Louis Allen and Toriano Lee
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

My research at the National Archives led me to find an Associated Press article about a family of five kidnapped and sold to a family in Fluker, Louisiana for twenty dollars after they were kidnapped from Amite County, Mississippi. "You read that right, a family of five sold for twenty dollars. The family of Crawford Allen, his wife, and three children. One of the three children was Louis Allen a Civil Rights Leader who was murdered in 1964 for speaking out about the murder of Herbert Lee who was shot and killed by E. H. Hurst at the cotton gin in Liberty, Mississippi.  Hurst was a member of the Mississippi state legislature. 

The murder of Herbert Lee in 1961 occurred during a time of intense racial tensions and civil rights activism in the United States. Lee's death, as well as the subsequent murder of Louis Allen for speaking out about it, shed light on the systemic racism and violence that African Americans faced in the segregated South. These tragic events served as catalysts for the civil rights movement, further fueling the fight for equality and justice.

A few years back, I received a call from Louis Allen's grandson, Louis. My heart swelled when I received the phone call from Louis Allen's grandson Louis, his namesake.  Finally, I identified the people who were illegally sold. Slavery was supposed to be abolished in 1863. The illegal sale of Crawford Allen and his family for a mere twenty dollars is a stark reminder of the deep-rooted systemic racism that persisted long after the abolition of slavery. The system of peonage and involuntary servitude was the new name for slavery. Under peonage, individuals were typically bound to their employers through debt or labor contracts, 

Herbert Lee

Fast forward sixty years. Earl Richardson, Jr., informed me about his brother Toriano Lee's family history. I immediately wanted to discuss his family history with him. From that day forward I kept his story on my desk and in my heart.  I received an email from Dr. Marcia Chatelain, an author and historian at the University of Pennsylvania, regarding an article I wrote and published about Toriano's grandmother Prince Melson Lee.  Chatelain was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for History for her book Franchise: The Golden Arches in Black America, for which she also won the James Beard Award for Writing in 2022.  During the 1963 March on Washington, D.C., Prince was recognized with Rosa Parks, Diane Nash, Gloria Richardson, Myrlie Evers-Williams, and Daisy Bates. Prince was the wife of NAACP activist Herbert Lee. 

During a conversation with Toriano I asked him if I could arrange for him to meet with Louis Allen. They both agreed and I made arrangements for the grandsons of Louis and Herbert to meet each other for the first time. The meeting between the grandsons of Louis and Herbert is a powerful symbol of reconciliation and healing. It brings together two families that have been deeply affected by racial violence and injustice, bridging the gap between past and present, and fostering understanding and unity. This meeting not only honors the legacies of Louis and Herbert but also serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of those who continue to fight for equality and justice. It was emotional for me to sit and listen to Louis share information Toriano heard for the very first time. 

Louis Allen

As I observed their faces, I saw expressions of pain, hurt, and loss resulting from their grandfathers' murders. The weight of their grief seemed unbearable to say the least. It was a haunting reminder of the profound emotional scars left by such unimaginable acts of violence, forever shaping their lives and their understanding of what it means to be Black in America. The two emphasize the importance of educating their sons about racial injustice in the United States. Moreover, Toriano expressed his gratitude to Louis for the courage his grandfather Louis showed when others who witnessed the murder remained silent.

Amite County, Mississippi, has a long history of racial tension and violence, particularly during the Civil Rights era. This context adds even more significance to the brotherhood formed by Louis and Toriano, as their shared tragedy represents a powerful bond in the face of a troubled past. I walked away feeling emotionally exhausted and drained after listening to their stories.  Listening to personal stories is emotionally taxing as it requires me to empathize with the experiences and emotions of others. It can also bring up unresolved emotions or trigger traumatic memories, leading to feelings of exhaustion and depletion. Nevertheless, most of the time it can't be avoided. 

Studying genealogy can help students understand local history

Chase LaCoste conducting genealogy research at the
St. Helena Courthouse. 
Photo Credit: Dr.Antoinette Harrell

As a homeschooled student, Chase frequently talks about his American History class with me. For some students, history can be a boring subject. At a young age, he began to accompany me to museums, libraries, and clerk offices. I did my best to prepare him and his siblings for our exciting field trips. His knowledge of Louisiana's sixty-four parishes and their parish seats dates back to his childhood. Today was a different class for him. 

He was taught how to conduct genealogy research at the St. Helena Parish Clerk's Office. The subject of successions and mortgage records was discussed with him. He learned about vendees and vendors. I instructed him to search for properties using the index. He used the index book to guide him to the book that housed the record he was looking for. The smile on his face said it all. He was excited to learn how to used the index books to help him find the records he was searching for. 

In today's class, he learned how to research succession records dating back to 1843. Chase was looking for his paternal ancestor Frank Vining who was enslaved by Jesse and Martha Vining. He learned that the records were written in cursive and he had to read them. Reading and interpreting cursive handwriting in genealogy research can be quite challenging, especially for younger generations who are not accustomed to this style of writing. It requires a keen eye and patience to decipher the words and understand the context of the records. With a magnifying glass in hand, I instructed him to research a record that was one hundred and eighty one years old. He started looking through records in file V-1 for inventory records.

I instructed him to obtain a certified copy of the records after finding them. This was also an opportunity
for me to teach. During this lesson, I wanted to make him aware of the importance of having documents certified.  In the course of paying the employee at the desk. He was instructed to ask the lady who was helping him what certified meant. Teaching in this situation was crucial as it allowed me to impart knowledge and ensure that he understood the significance of having documents certified. By explaining the meaning of "certified" to him, I aimed to equip him with the necessary understanding to navigate similar situations in the future. 

"As soon as you exit the St. Helena Clerk's Office.  We passed the monument belonging to the Old Land Office, and he stopped for a moment to observe it. As I explained to him, it is important to read the historical plaques and monuments.Historical plaques play a crucial role in educating the public about the significance of certain landmarks or events."  

He will never forget this experience. This experience has deeply impacted his perspective on local history and allowed him to see history through the lens of genealogy. Studying genealogy can provide a personal and intimate connection to historical events, as it allows individuals to trace their ancestry and understand how their family history intersects with broader historical narratives.  History came alive for Chase today. What was more excited was to have his grandmother teaching him how to use genealogy as a tool to learn about local history. I can't wait to take him on other adventure that can help enhance his life long educational journey.