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. 

Hidden History Treasures in Grandma's House

Bernard Learning Genealogy from his Mom 2004

Dwayne Taylor Sr, finding his biological roots in Fluker, Louisiana

Dwayne at the Boykin's gravesites.
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Although I did not undergo surgery yesterday, I had an amazing day exploring my paternal roots with my brother Dwayne in Fluker, Louisiana, My two siblings, Zelda and Patrick, and I learned that we had a brother through Ancestry DNA. Embracing our brother and a new branch of our family tree was an exciting experience for us. We decided to visit Fluker, Louisiana, the ancestral home of his paternal ancestors. We visited the Fluker cemetery and church where our father Walter's family is buried. With the help of a kind man named Mr. Evans, he took Dwayne straight to the Boykin's gravesites. Afterwards we then drove around in search of the old house. Dwayne was very enthusiastic about exploring the history of his biological family.  I could not locate it, due to time constraint I had to meet my friend Lynn Dosty in New Orleans.  We met up with Lynn and Don in New Orleans and shared our experiences with them.  Lyn has just visit the St. Louis #2 Cemetery in New Orleans and slo had so much to share with us.  It was a very exciting day for everyone. 

In parallel with this, I was going to meet for the first time my nephew Dwayne, Jr. Despite a small setback, yesterday was a memorable and awesome day spent with family and friends. My goal is to share as much information as I can about the Boykins family history with Dwayne. I am looking forward to our time together and am confident that Dwayne will be interested in learning more about his family's history. I also hope to share some of my experiences with him. I am excited for this opportunity to connect with my nephew.

Left to right: Dwayne Taylor, Sr.,  Dr. Antoinette Harrell,
Dwayne Taylor, Jr., and Lynn Dosty

A local historian conducts research and writes about the history of Blacks in Southeast Louisiana

Dr. Antoinette Harrell
Local Historian and Genealogist
 in Tangipahoa Parish

To gain a deeper understanding of yourself, you must examine your history. The history of my family was always discussed by my mother, dating back as far as she was able to recall. It didn't matter to her if she told me the same story a hundred times, she told it again as if it was her first time telling me the story.  Perhaps she believed that by repeating these stories she would pass on our history to the next generation. One thing is certain, I'm glad she did, It is one of the greatest gifts I could ever receive. Many people are unaware of the history of their families. What's more disturbing is that some do not want to know. 

I would like to convey what my mother told me and the sources she shared with me with other family members. It is the most effective way to keep our family's history and legacy alive. I also want to inspire other families to explore their history. It's ok to  share stories, photographs, and family heirlooms with others in the family. We should cherish our ancestors and the lessons they taught us. It's a valuable way to keep our  history and culture alive. Our history will be lost if we do not research and preserve it. Our history will gradually diminish over time. We all should take action now to ensure our history is not forgotten. We should also educate future generations about our family history. 

When I started in 1994, there were no Black collections at the local genealogy library or the Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies.  You could any information about Black churches, schools, civic associations, and societies. There was no doubt in my mind that I would change that. There are currently five Black collections at the Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies. At the local genealogy library, there is a collection of genealogy and photographs of Black people.

People have regularly contacted me via phone calls and emails to express their gratitude for my research or for documenting their ancestors' stories. I was inspired to create a more comprehensive collection and do more research. I was determined to make sure that these stories were not forgotten and that their legacy could be celebrated.

There is an increased risk of drowning among Black children due to a lack of swimming skills

Carter at Swim Meet
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Black children aged 5-19 are five times more likely than white children to drown in swimming pools, according to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Growing up in Amite, Louisiana, our family homestead had a pond and my mother warned my three brothers and me not to be near the pond. She was concerned that we would drown if we fell in. Neither of us knew how to swim. Occasionally, she and other adults would take us to the river nearby and let us play on the edge of the water.

I'll never forget my first cousin Jo-Ann Lewis Frazier telling me how she saved my life when I fell into the pond. When I fell in the pond, she said I was approximately four years old. In her words, she saw me go under the water and jumped into the pond to save me. I'm glad she did otherwise I wouldn't be here writing this article today. I'm happy she knew how to swim.

Through the years I have heard many stories of young people drowning. Particularly during the long summer months when kids desire to cool down from the oppressive heat. When a child does not know how to swim, what begins as fun can end tragically. It is also worthwhile to teach children to swim at an early age so that they can safely enjoy summer activities.

I lived in New Orleans for years knowing that our city was below sea level.  The average elevation of New Orleans, Louisiana is approximately one to 8 feet below sea level.  Public schools in New Orleans should offer swimming classes and swimming teams to their students just like any other sport they offer.

"Consider the number of drownings during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. "Would more people have been able to save lives if they had learned how to swim?"  Carter's choice of swimming as a sport made me so proud. At one of his swim meets, I observed how relaxing he found swimming. Carter was a natural in the water and became more confident with every race. I was inspired by him. His mother was excited to tell me that he won first place in the freestyle competition.

Swimming lessons can save your child's life and the lives of others during water activities. It was clear that the swimming lessons had paid off and that Carter had gained a sense of confidence and competence in the water. 

Carter at his Swim Meet
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell