Exploring the Rich History in Tangipahoa and St. Helena Parishes

Antoinette Harrell conducting genealogy research
Photo Credit: Walter C. Black, Sr.

The insight that I have gained about Tangipahoa and St. Helena parishes are unique and educational. This is where history come alive, exploring new townships and places. Collecting new photographs and the stories behind the pictures. Most importantly meeting new people and learning about their family history. Some people are happy to find someone that has an interest in local history and genealogy.  They are happy to show their family heirlooms such as; quilts, photographs, documents, and antiques that had been passed down through generations through family members.  I am delighted to see that someone in the family values the legacy that was passed down to them by their ancestors or family members. 

It would be great to see more lectures, films and seminars on the people, events and history of Tangipahoa and St. Helena Parishes at our local library.   Sometimes when I am riding on the back roads of the two parishes, I can’t help but give thanks to God for the beauty of these two parishes.

‘The smell of fresh air, the cattle grazing in the green pastures and the curviest roads that lead’s you to homes with fishing ponds and friendly people sitting on the porch.” Blackberries growing along side the road with other natural herbs. The colorful range of wild flowers of yellow, purple, red and white covers the side of the roads.

Richardson Gin,  Receipt of Clifford Wheat

Last week I saw a beautiful fox run across the road and a herd of deer waiting to cross the road.  Listening to the birds singing in the morning is like listen to a symphony that could be heard by the entire community. 

I feel like I am taking an exciting field trip each time I go out to explore the history of these two parishes.  What better way to learn about the history, events, and people,  than from the perspective of the people who made the history and events?  It is people like Edwin Temple, the genealogist for the Temple Family, Ann Hurst the genealogist for the Vining and William family of St. Helena Parish, that understand the importance of keeping our history alive. A very special thanks to my cousin Joyce for sharing these records.