Land, Legacy, and Leadership Three Generations of Vernon Men

Good Samaritan Nursing 
Franklinton, Louisiana 

Whenever I engage in conversations with members of the Vernon family or others who were part of the community and possess recollections of some of the community leaders, the name of the Vernon family invariably arises in their reflections. Through these discussions, I consistently gain new insights into the history of the Vernon men, who were recognized as pioneers and esteemed community leaders. Several years ago, one of my closest friends, Glyniss Vernon Gordon—a relative by marriage—shared with me her detailed account of the Vernon family history.

Her parents, Dr. Willard Vernon and his wife Alma Harrison Vernon, were significant figures in my early life and served as childhood icons. Both of her parents dedicated their professional lives to education within the Tangipahoa Parish School System, where they maintained high expectations for their students' academic achievements. They were widely respected as two pillars of their community, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of numerous students and individuals through their tireless efforts.

The Vernon family's humanitarian legacy did not originate solely from Dr. Willard Vernon. His great-grandfather, Robert "Free Bob" Vernon, a former slave who migrated to Louisiana from Mississippi, played a pivotal role in establishing a foundation for future generations. Robert Vernon acquired over 1,100 acres of land and distributed one hundred acres to each of his children in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana. In addition to this act of generosity, he contributed land to establish a church, school, and cemetery in Arcola, Louisiana, further exemplifying the family's enduring commitment to community betterment and education.

Glyniss frequently shares the story of how her father, grandfather, and other family members dedicated themselves with unwavering determination to establish the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Washington Parish, Louisiana. This significant endeavor was realized in 1987, marking a proud moment in her family's history. She holds deep admiration and pride for the contributions of her father, grandfather, and great-grandfather in this accomplishment.

Glyniss V. Gordon and Gregory Route, 
Mayor of Franklinton, La. 

Third District Bogue Chitto Baptist Association "Good Samaritan Nursing Home" Board of Director were as follows: Rev. Raymond Mims, President, Rev A.J. Manning, Rev. James Mahoney, Rev. Aaron Thompson, Rev. Carlis Hart, Mrs, Pearl Wilson, Rev. Leo Edgerson, Rev. R. He. Cornist, Rev. Dr. Altwood Luther, Bro. Jo Williams, Matthew Tate, David Wood, Ben Fussell, Harris Farris, Rev. Dr. Willard Vernon, Ex-Officio.

Glyniss, accompanied by her family, stood with great pride beside the cornerstone dedication. The historical context of the event was eloquently presented by Pastor Johnny Causey. Originally, the designated speaker for the occasion was Rev. Dr. Raymond Mims; however, due to his inability to attend, the role of keynote speaker was assumed by Rev. Dr. Bobby Showers.

Comments was made by Glyniss Vernon Gordon, Mayor Gregory Route, and Mrs. Annie Grace. Glyniss  stand on the shoulders of her ancestors who were leaders, pioneers, and visionaries. Today, the legacy of the Vernon family continues. These are just a few of their major accomplishments and contributions to their communities and societies. Glyniss herself is a pioneer, as she was the first African American woman elected to serve on the City of Amite Council.  Gregory Route became the first black mayor of Franklinton, Louisiana.  "I knew that my parents were hard workers, but to me they was just daddy and mama," said Glyniss. I want my grandchildren to learn more about the legacy of my father's family she said. 

The comments were delivered by Glyniss Vernon Gordon, Mayor Gregory Route, and Mrs. Annie Grace, highlighting their significant roles and contributions. Glyniss Vernon Gordon stands on the shoulders of her ancestors, who were leaders, pioneers, and visionaries, embodying a legacy that continues to shape the Vernon family's impact today. These remarks underscore some of the major accomplishments and contributions made by these individuals to their communities and societies. Notably, Glyniss Vernon Gordon is a trailblazer in her own right, as she was the first African American woman to be elected to serve on the City of Amite Council. Similarly, Gregory Route made history as the first black mayor of Franklinton, Louisiana. Reflecting on her upbringing, Glyniss remarked, "I knew that my parents were hard workers, but to me they was just daddy and mama." She further expressed her desire for her grandchildren to gain a deeper understanding of the legacy of her father's family.

The offsprings of 
Rev. Dr. Willard Vernon and Mrs. Alma Harrison Vernon
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell