Carter LaCoste, a student at St. Augustine High School, advocated for swimming classes as part of the sport activities

Carter's competitive swim meets
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Swimming plays a vital role in LaCoste's life, offering both physical and mental benefits. It provides a unique sense of freedom and relaxation, supports his fitness, and serves as an effective stress reliever.  He also values swimming for the opportunities it gives him to set personal goals and achieve a fulfilling sense of accomplishment. He swims at least four times a week after school. 

In New Orleans, where much of the city lies below sea level, swimming is a critical life skill. Although some schools lack pools, they partner with external facilities to teach swimming, emphasizing its importance in saving lives—a lesson he deeply understands.  Lacoste began his sophomore year at New Orleans' St. Augustine High School, renowned for its strong educational foundation and rich tradition. Becoming a Purple Knight held special significance for him, as it represented a connection to the school's values and identity. However, during his time there, he discovered that the school did not offer swimming as part of its athletic program. This was a notable disappointment for LaCoste as swimming was an activity he valued. He called me to discuss this with me, highlighting the lack of a swimming program as a significant observation about his new school environment.

Anyone familiar with Carter knows that he isn't hesitant to speak or advocate for a cause, and he will argue his point relentlessly. His mother, Victorica, often remarks that he should become an attorney because he is determined to make his point. He's always up for a good debate, that's for sure. During the previous school term, he engaged with Coach Sims,  the school's athletic director, to explore the possibility of introducing swimming as a school activity. "Coach Sim was all ears and was on board," said LaCoste.   Sims took proactive steps to address LaCoste's request rather than allowing it to remain unaddressed. At the start of the current academic year, he  was pleasantly surprised to discover that swimming would indeed be offered at St. Augustine High School. Moreover, he was deeply impressed to learn that approximately twenty students had enrolled in the class during its inaugural meeting. Many of the students had no idea that could be done LaCoste said. We had our first entry meeting and we start swim practice this coming Monday said LaCoste.

LaCoste
Backstroke competitive swimming 
Image: Antoinette Harrell

He was thrilled to call and share the good news. The whole family is proud of him and, most importantly, for the students eager for swimming lessons. Once LaCoste sets his mind to something, he does not stop until he accomplishes it, so his achievements come as no surprise. LaCoste advocacy for integrating swimming into sports programs is highly commendable. This young man serves as a model of leadership, demonstrating a promising future. His efforts have significantly raised awareness about swimming's critical role as both a life skill and a sport.  LaCoste dedication has created new opportunities for youth but also motivated others to engage in advocacy within their communities. 

Grant Chapel AME Church is at the forefront of emphasizing the significance of church history.

 

Grant AME Church in Amite, LA
Photo Courtesy of Facebook

Grant Chapel AME Church is at the forefront of emphasizing the significance of church history. The African American church has a rich legacy of spiritual and educational enrichment. Preserving church history enables future generations to comprehend the cultural and spiritual contributions of the church. It cultivates a sense of identity and community and provides invaluable insights into past struggles and achievements. This preservation also ensures that lessons learned and congregation's heritage are not lost over time. Oftentimes, history is lost throughout the decades. There have been instances where churches were burned, and all records were destroyed.  In some cases, records are lost over time by secretaries. To safeguard church history, digitizing records and important documents can provide a secure and easily accessible archive. I suggest conducting oral history interviews with long-standing members to capture personal stories and experiences that contribute to the church's legacy. Establishing a dedicated history committee can also facilitate long-term efforts to document and celebrate the church's historical milestones. The secretary should keep records of funerals, baptisms, weddings, church anniversaries, and other events. 

My experience in genealogical research reveals that African American churches often lack comprehensive records. Implementing a standardized system for record-keeping can greatly enhance the preservation of essential church documents. Providing training sessions for church secretaries and volunteers on effective record management techniques would also prove advantageous. Additionally, partnerships with local historical societies and archives can offer valuable resources and expertise, ensuring that records are carefully maintained and preserved for future generations. In terms of church preservation, the Nurturing Our Roots and Untold History Foundation, LLC., is happy to assist any interested church.

Reverend Mack Charles Hurst served as the pastor or Grant Chapel African Methodist Church for twelve years.

Photo Courtesy of
Legacy.com

Rev. Mack Charles Hurst Rev. Mack Charles Hurst was born on July 29, 1940 in Greensburg, Louisiana. He was a retired pastor of the Louisiana Annual Conference of the Eighth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and a lifelong member of GreaterTurner Chapel AME Church, Greensburg, LA. Rev. Hurst graduated from Helena High School in Greensburg, LA in 1957. He was a 1966 graduate of Southern University and A&M College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Agricultural Education. He furthered his education as a Kellogg Fellow at North Carolina AT&T University, Graduate School of Economics. After 10 years of employment as County Supervisor with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Farmers Home Administration, he retired to become a state licensed, commercial and residential building contractor. Rev. Hurst answered the call to preach in July 1988 and served his entire pastoral ministry in the Louisiana Annual Conference. He pastored Gaines Chapel, Tangipahoa; Salter Chapel, Bogalusa; Greater St. James, Hammond; and Grant Chapel, Amite City. He was always faithful to the mission of the AME Church and through his ministry many were converted. His affiliations included Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Prince Hall Freemasonry and he served on the Region 2 Local Workforce Development Board for many years. Rev. Mack Charles Hurst transitioned peacefully to his eternal home on Tuesday, November 10, 2020. 

Benjamin Temple and his son James Family History

For decades the Temple family history has been longstanding in Tangipahoa Parish. Oftentimes genealogy research can take you behind what the places you have always called home. That is the case in the study of Jim Temple's family history. Jim was born to an enslaved woman who name has yet to be found. That is the million dollar question that the Temple family who like to know. One descendant of Jim Temple said that it a branch of our family tree that is missing. Just who was Jim's mother. Using Ancestry to find any information that maybe available online. I found that fifty-three family trees on James "Jim" Temple. Jame's father Benjamin Temple  was born in 1809 in Princeton, Mercer, New Jersey and died in 1877 in Ouachita, Louisiana. According to the 1860 U.S. Federal Census- Slave Schedules, Benjamin had two enslaved people living in his household in Morehouse Louisiana. A female age 50 and as male age 19,

According to the 1850  U.S. Federal Census- Slave Schedules, Benjamin Temple owned four enslaved people in his household. They were living in Ward 1, Morehouse, Louisiana. A female 28, a female age 9, a male age 3, and a male 9/12. It's unfortunate that names for the most part was listed on the slave schedules. 

The Temple Family views any new information as a potential lead for self-discovery. Identifying Jim's mother's name is vital, as it could reveal a hidden branch of their family history, offering insights into ancestral origins and connections. This discovery might also uncover lost details about family traditions, medical history, or cultural heritage. Without her name, a crucial piece of their family's puzzle remains unresolved.

Morehouse Parish Clerk's Office may provide some leads or clues. It's not promising, but it's worth a shot. You can start by visiting their official website to find contact information, such as phone numbers or email addresses. It's also a good idea to call ahead and ask about the specific documents or information you are seeking and whether there are any forms or fees involved. If possible, consider visiting the office in person to speak directly with a clerk who can guide you through the process.

The Womack family preserving syrup making in St. Helena Parish

John Womack, Sr.
Photo Credit: Donald Davis

It's that time of year again. Each year, the Womack family gathers to make their sweet and tasty syrup. Cedric Womack and his father John Womack, Sr., watched James Baker make syrup for years. The master syrup-maker is now his uncle Floyd Womack. Cedric grew up around syrup-making for most of his life. During the long hours spent making syrup, the Womack family and friends gather around the shed, working, talking, laughing, and eating. To go with the freshly made syrup, homemade biscuits can sometimes be a special treat.

"The annual syrup-making event serves not only as a culinary endeavor but also as a celebration of family unity and shared memories. It is a cherished ritual that keeps the Womack legacy alive, bringing everyone together in a joyful and meaningful way."

Since 2020, the Womack family has been making syrup, and they intend to continue the tradition. Meanwhile, Cedric is worried about the increasing age of his father and uncles, and he doesn't want the syrup tradition to disappear. Cedric is considering starting syrup-making workshops for the younger generation, allowing them to learn the craft hands-on. He documents the process through videos or social media, making it appealing and relevant to their interests.

Cedric Womack
Photo Credit: Donald Davis

"I would hate to see this craft lost said, Cedric." There is not as much interest in it among the younger generation said Cedric.  Many young people are drawn to digital technologies and modern hobbies that seem more exciting and relevant to their lives. Growing up, I drove tractors and worked with cows since I was a boy, and I am still interested in farm life today. Baling hay and caring for livestock are some of the skills I learned from my father. This is a culture that should be preserved and I'm committed to doing what I can to preserve it.

Video

 https://youtu.be/WdQB3nMs-Tc?si=UqCSvza49h4yBzGX

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

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 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. 

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.  

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. 

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

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.

Genetic testing is used by enslaved descendants on Richardson plantation to determine their family relationships

Carl Richardson Descendants

My maternal grandmother's surname name is Richardson. Throughout my childhood, I was acquainted with my grandmother's siblings. My mother frequently shared stories about her mother's relatives and their history. Josephine Richardson, along with her siblings, was born and raised in Montpelier, Louisiana, which is an unincorporated community located in St. Helena Parish. My research delved into the ancestry of my Richardson family, with a focus on my great-grandparents Thomas and Emma Vining Richardson. Through the United States Census, I uncovered valuable information about their lives. Specifically, I discovered that Thomas and his siblings resided in a household with their parents, Thomas and Amanda Breland Richardson.

As I was going through the inventory of the Benjamin and Celia Bankston Richardson Plantation, I found out that my ancestor Carrie and her son Thomas were among the twenty-three enslaved individuals listed. It got me thinking if any of the other enslaved people were related to Carrie. Could one of the women have been her mother, or perhaps her brother or sister? I know of another Richardson family in Tangipahoa Parish, and their ancestral origins are in St. Helena Parish. According to some, we may be related based on oral history, while others dispute this claim. The only sure way to settle this is to undergo a DNA test. Supt. Jimmy Richardson took the Ancestry DNA to get answers.

  Carl Richardson and Joseph Richardson
Descendants

Thomas, son of Carrie, is my maternal 3rd great-grandfather. It was discovered during the inventory
following Benjamin's death in 1855 that Carrie was only twenty years old at the time. The plantation inventory also listed a young man named Nathan, who was fifteen years old then. Nathan later fathered a son named Andrew Richardson. Supt. Jimmy Richardson descends from Nathan Richardson. Recently, my friend Lorraine Lizana informed me that her lineage connects to Thomas and Rebecca Richardson. Through Lorraine, I discovered that her ancestors Thomas and Rebecca are buried in the same cemetery as my 2nd great-grandparents Thomas and Amanda. All of them have been laid to rest in Rocky Hill A.M.E. Church Cemetery. Lorraine descends from Alfred Richardson lineage. Alfred was on the same plantation with Carrie, and Nathan.

Last year, we had individuals whose ancestors were Richardson from Tangipahoa Parish travel to Louisiana to establish a Richardson connection. Their ancestors Carl Richardson's ancestors descends from Louisiana. Their ancestors had to leave the south and they never returned to call Louisiana home again.  

Continuing with the genealogy investigation of Thomas Richardson's lineage, we have discovered another Thomas Richardson, Melbourne McNealty's father Joseph often shared stories about his Richardson relatives. After conducting additional genealogical research, it was discovered that Melbourne's ancestor Thomas arrived in New Orleans aboard a vessel called the State. He was sold to a plantation in St. Francisville, Louisiana.  

I had a conversation with a young named Fagan Davis who shared with me that his family linage traces back to a Richardson family in St. Helena Parish. I asked him about the possibility of taking the Ancestry DNA test to establish and familial connection between us. He suggested that I test his mother who is the daughter of Willie Richardson instead of him. His mother agreed and took the test and now we are presently waiting for the results to come back. After receiving the DNA results, it is important to thoroughly compare and analyze them. To facilitate this process, I plan to schedule a Zoom meeting for everyone to share their DNA matches. This is especially necessary due to the historical separation of families caused by slavery, which often leads to roadblocks in our search for answers.

Earl Richardson, Sr., Dr. Antoinete Harrell, and Supt. Jimmy Richardson, Sr. 
Taking the Ancestry DNA test