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

Ebony and Jet magazine art director Herbert Temple, Jr., roots traces back to Tangipahoa Parish

Herbert Temple, Jr.
Photo Credit: Chornes/Ancestry

"It is impossible to predict what you may uncover when conducting genealogy and local history research. As I was researching newspaper articles on newspapers.com, I came across a very interesting article about a man named Herbert Temple. Jr. I had some knowledge of Herbert's 2 great-grandfathers, Jim Temple, whose family history is rooted deeply in Tangipahoa Parish to this day.  Among the children of Jim Temple was a son named John Temple. John married Ida Butler, they both was residents of Tangipahoa Parish. His wife Ida taught school with schools were held in local churches. 

They were the parents of Herbert Temple, Sr. (1898-1959, Margaret Temple (1900-1964) John Temple (1902-?) Edna Temple (1908-1961), Fulton Temple (1908-1997). I am primarily interested in Herbert Temple,  Sr. and his Carey Britt family history. The couple lived in Cook County, Illinois, where they raised their family. They were the parents of Herbert Temple, Jr., Florence O. Temple, and Velma Temple. 

The Temple's genealogy is traceable back to Tangipahoa Parish for Herbert Temple, Jr. "Now, who was Herbert Temple, Jr., and why am I interested in his history?" I came across an article published in the Chicago Tribune on April 27, 2011, about Herbert.  Hebert was the executive director at Johnson Publishing Co., Herbert Temple was involved in some of the nation's most prominent African American publications, such as Ebony and Jet.

 Herbert Temple, Jr.
Photo Credit: Noael Alford/Ancestry

In his youth, Temple enjoyed drawing and reading comic books. Upon graduation from Evanson Town-

ship High School, he enlisted in the United States Army. When he returned home, he decided to pursue a career in the arts. Upon enrolling at the School of Arts in Chicago, he pursued a degree in art. In the 1950s, there were no employment opportunities for African Americans in the arts.  Many African Americans had to turn to other jobs and  professions to provide for their families. This lack of opportunity created a significant barrier to career advancement and wealth accumulation, making it more difficult for future generations to succeed. Art was Herbert's passion and he was determined to pursue it.  His dedication and work paid off and he soon made a name for himself as a professional artist. He inspired others and his legacy lives on. 

In 1953 he was hired by John H. Johnson, publisher of Ebony and Jet magazine. Temple. He was not only an artist. He also founded JanTemp Greetings, a card company specializing in black themes. He designed many album covers, and children's books illustrations and produced a series of drawings of Black leaders according to his daughter Janel Temple.

"My father's career as an artist presented him with the opportunity to meet many notable individuals and dignitaries. Among these notable individuals are President John F. Kennedy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., John Lennon, Michael Jackson, and others," said Janel.

Herbert Temple's cousin Collis Temple, Jr., was the first African American to play varsity basketball at Louisiana State University (LSU). Many of Jim Temple's descendants have succeeded in their fields. There is a high standard of excellence in the Temple family, from educators to business owners.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to researching our local history. Tangipahoa Parish has produced many accomplished African Americans. Herbert had no interest in working in a slaughterhouse or seed mill. He had a vision for himself and what he wanted to become, and the foundation that his parents gave him supported that vision. His dedication and work paid off and he soon made a name for himself as a professional artist. He inspired others and his legacy lives on. 

The late Dr. Percy, L. Walker was legend in his community

Dr. Percy L. Walker
Photo Credit: Louisiana Weekly

Amite, LA- My memory of Dr. Percy L. Walker dates back to when I was a child. He was Tangipahoa Parish first black vegetarian. He came out to assist my Cousin Henry Wheat deliver a calf.  Dr. Walker legacy revealed so more more. My research revealed that he was a reporter for Louisiana Weekly Newspaper in New Orleans at early as the 1950s. Black people's achievements and events in Amite, Louisiana were the subject of Dr. Walker's writings.

There is a great deal of information about the local AME church events that he wrote about. I found this information to be extremely valuable since most church histories are sketchy unless the church secretary or members keep good records as well as church programs.

"Dr. Walker was also appointed  to serve as the chairman of the Red Cross for black people. Educating black people on the importance of emergency preparedness was also one of his major contributions. He held the first annual colored membership meeting at West High School on January 12, 1960. Dr. Walker stated that he consider it a privilege to serve in this capacity."

Through the many articles he wrote, I learned who were the community leaders at the time. Several garden clubs and civic organizations were active in improving the quality of life for black people. These organizations provided social services, such as education and healthcare, to those in need. His articles kept me up until the early hours of the morning reading it. I am interested in learning more about the work of black people in the local community. I am inspired to find out more about their experiences, the challenges they face, and their accomplishments. I want to use this information to motivate others to act, and to create a more equitable and equitable society in our Tangipahoa Parish communities. There is a blueprint for us to follow that was left by the community icons.  The majority of those  he wrote about have long since passed away. My objective is to continue to research and promote their works to empower our communities through their work. 

As a legend within his community, Dr. Percy L. Walker would be an excellent subject for a documentary or book. Dr. Walker was a prominent figure in the fight for civil rights in Tangipahoa, Louisiana, and his life story is unknown. He was a strong advocate for African Americans' education and a pioneer of the civil rights movement in the region. His legacy deserves to be remembered and honored. His article as reporter for the Louisiana Weekly has shed new light on the area's past. Tuskegee University is where he obtained his degree.

Source: " Named Chairman of Red Cross Membership Dr." The Louisiana Weekly (New Orleans, Louisiana) Saturday, January 2, 1960,  p 3.

Genealogist Dr. Antoinette Harrell connects with her brother through Ancestry DNA

Patrick, Zelda, Antoinette, Dwayne
Siblings found each other through Ancestry DNA

I am a local historian and genealogist in Tangiphaoa Parish. I began researching my family history more than 30 years ago. My ongoing investigation of my maternal and paternal ancestry in several parishes in Louisiana, Florida Parishes is never-ending. During my research, I spent long hours in courthouses, libraries, university archives, and other sources searching for any information that would help me obtain more information about my family history. 

"Having hit a brick wall, I turned to Ancestry in hopes of finding answers and other clues that would lead me further down the road in my research." My paternal and maternal ancestors were slaves in the Louisiana Florida Parishes. I discovered new family members and a brother through my Ancestry DNA. I learned that I was connected to Dwayne Taylor as a brother through Eric Williams, a family history keeper. To verify what Williams was referring to, I immediately logged into my Ancestry account to look further into this matter.

As Eric Williams and I analyzed Dwayne's DNA and my DNA results together, he informed me that he used Facebook to determine whether we had mutual friends. "Yes, we have mutual friends. One of those friends is Fabiola Clark-Taylor." I was completely blown away, since Fabiola and her husband Donald were my friends.  We have been friends for over 25 years. She often spoke about Dwayne, her stepson. The fact that my dear friend's stepson was my brother shocked me. My mind immediately began spinning with thousands of questions. What? How? Why? I want to learn more.

Antoinette and Dwayne first meeting

I called my sister Zelda to inform her of our new brother. It was shocking news for her as well. Our father told us that there were no other children except for the three of us that he knew of. At that point, we both agreed that our father didn't know he had another son. He would have informed us if he had known. I reassured Dwayne that our father Walter was unaware of him.

Dwayne and I were introduced  by phone by our mutual cousin Eric Williams. Dwayne and I began to talk.  Later we spent  hours on the phone sharing information. Both of us were crying for a variety of reasons. Finding each other was the first reason. I informed him that he had two siblings, a sister named Zelda and a brother named Patrick. He also gained nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Me and my siblings gained nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Now that the cloud of happiness has cleared, we need to speak with a few people who could give us some answers, at least we hope so. 

Zelda meeting her brother Dwayne
 for the first time. 

I know that this was particularly difficult for Dwayne since he was raised by a man who was not his biological father. As far as he is concerned Donald will always be his father.  Our shock at discovering that we had known each other for so long was mutual. "In fact, I took photographs at Donald's funeral, and I would never have imagined photographing my own brother. There was a part of me that wanted to run and scream at the same time." Our minds were overwhelmed by the amount of information we had to digest, let alone process

After several phone conversations, we decided to meet in person. We scheduled a dinner meeting in New Orleans. We were both eagerly anticipating meeting on October 5. I was the first to arrive at their location. Amid excitement, I didn't know if I could have waited for another moment. He finally walked through that door with his wife, daughter, and grandchildren. I met my niece LaShay and her two beautiful children and Dwayne's beautiful wife Sherrice

With open arms, we embraced one another in tears. We held onto each other as if we were afraid to lose each other again. Family members wept with joy and happiness for Dwayne. The only brother he had by his mother had passed away years ago. He thought he was alone all this time, but now he has siblings. I created a Facebook page to bring us all together to share photographs, stories, and build a relationship with each other. Soon afterwards, plans were made to meet Zelda and Patrick in Houston, Texas. 

Once again,  I was the first to arrive. I wanted it to be this way to capture Dwayne meeting his sister and brother. A tear of joy filled Zelda's eyes when she saw her big brother. Patrick told us he cried before he got there so he managed himself well. "We laughed, talked, and took tons of pictures that evening. We shared stories and reminisced about old times. It was a beautiful moment that I will never forget. Patrick, Dwayne and I attended the same schools."  Dwayne's daughter and Patrick's daughter attended the same school. In fact, they were already friends on Facebook. The fact that we were so close to each other and were unaware that we were siblings has shocked us all.

 Patrick and Dwayne

We all agreed to accept without judgement and questions. The most beautiful things we have each other. It was a very powerful reminder of the power of family and how unconditional acceptance can bring people together. Dwayne felt accepted and supported and we were all grateful for that. It was a special evening that we will all cherish. There is a moral to this story: If you are not ready to accept the truth about your DNA, please do not take it, you never know what it will reveal. My siblings and I embrace each other with love and open arms. Patrick was delighted to get a brother and so was Dwayne. The two brothers later had a visit and Zelda met Dwayne son D.J.  

The strange thing is that Dwayne and I are both interested in photography and filmmaking. We both take many pictures and film of our family and events. We share our work and help each other perfect our techniques. Maintaining contact and bonding is something we plan to continue working on. We are excited to having each.

Local farmers and the SU AG Center distributed fresh produce on MLK Day in Kentwood, LA.

ACCFA and Southern University AG Center
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

The  Angus Cattle Community Farmers, Inc., Southern University AG Center, Tri-Parish Vegetables Farmers, and Nurturing Our Roots for giving back to the community on MLK Day in Kentwood, Louisiana. Twenty bags, as well as warm hats and gloves, were donated. Tri-Parish Vegetable Growers donated fresh turnip greens from their garden. Thank you for all the contributions made by Irma T. Thompson, Town of Kentwood Mayor, and members of the Kentwood Town Council. Nicholas Muse, Assistant Area Agent, ANR at Agricultural Research and Extension Center provided the hats, gloves, and healthy lunch containers for everyone in attendance. 

Considering the rising cost of groceries across the country, everyone was grateful to receive these bags. This is what Dr. King won't the leaders and people to continue. Poverty and economic injustice still plaque Dr. King wanted leaders and people to continue serving the poor and the unserved. The issue of poverty and economic injustice persists. Dr. King's legacy lives on in the work of these organizations that fight for economic justice and marginalized rights. His dream of a nation where everyone has a fair chance to succeed is still relevant today.These items arrived just in time for the harsh winter weather expected to arrive in our area soon. 

The generosity of these organizations was a true act of kindness and will be remembered.  Dr. Antoinette Harrell,  a consultant for the non-profit organization said that we need to carry out the life works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  The consultant for the non-profit organization, Dr. Antoinette Harrell, emphasized that the life works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. need to continue to be carried out in the present day. King stated in his eulogy that he did not wish to be remembered for all the degrees and awards he had received. It was meaningful to him to be remembered for feeding the hungry, clothing those in need, and visiting those in prison. "For decades, we have marched symbolically. Now is the time to act," said Harrell.

Craig Coleman, Founder of Tri-Parish Vegetable Farmer
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

The MLK Day event was organized by Mayor Irma T. Thompson, chaired by Councilwoman Jakoiya Wilkerson, the Kentwood Town Council, and Dr. Antoinette Harrell. The event included a day of service to those in need.  E. Don Wilson the events Keynote speaker delivered the eulogy for Dr. Kings and talked about community involvement and low voter turnout this year. The speaker spoke about how people during the civil rights era sacrificed their lives to exercise their right to vote. This year's theme: Shifting the Cultural Climate Through The Study of Practice of Kingian Nonviolence. Wilson explained why Dr. King advocated nonviolence. Because Dr. King understood that violence brings on more violence. 

The event concluded with the distribution of fresh produce, and winter items. The mayor presented awards to members of the community for their service and dedication to the community. The day was also marked by a ceremony honoring Dr. King and other civil rights leaders. Several local politicians, faith leaders, and members of the community attended the event.

Nicholas Muse
Assistant Area Agent, ANR at Southern University
Agricultural Research and Extension Center
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Using social media to share family photographs with family members

Antoinette Harrell Photograph Collection

This time of year, I spend considerable time reviewing files. My focus this time was on the family photographs. I share my family photographs on social media to keep them safe for others. It is simply a matter of downloading the image. It can be printed or stored in the iCloud. Not only do I have my collection, but I also have my mother's collection after she died. Thanks to my brother Micheal, I can now preserve her collection and share it with my family. As far as he was concerned, he knew exactly who should receive them.

Furthermore, giving photographs to family members while I am still able to do so is extremely important to me. It is not uncommon for photographs to be disposed of after a person has passed away. This is because the person browsing through the items may not recognize the person or people in the picture and discard them. I want to ensure that my family members will have these memories to cherish long before I die.  It is for this reason that I have decided to share my photos with my family and give them to them. My goal is to preserve our family legacy for future generations.

When I share photographs online.  Knowing that the photograph will be preserved gives me a sense of release. I regularly hear people say that the family photographs were thrown away or that the person who has them does not wish to share them with other family members. This makes me sad, as these photos are often the only tangible reminders of our ancestors. We should all strive to make a conscious effort to treasure and pass on these precious memories for future generations.