Negro Rehabilitation Client, Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana ( Untitled Photo)

 

About this Item

Title

[Untitled photo, possibly related to: Negro rehabilitation client, Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana]

Contributor Names

Rothstein, Arthur, 1915-1985, photographer

United States. Resettlement Administration.

Created / Published

[1935 Sept.]

Subject Headings

-  United States--Louisiana--Tangipahoa Parish

Headings

Nitrate negatives.

Genre

Nitrate negatives

Notes

-  Title and other information from a possibly related negative. Image came to Library of Congress untitled. (There was no caption for this image in the FSA/OWI shelflist.)

-  Appears to be related to negative LC-USF33-002076-M1 https://www.loc.gov/pictures/item/fsa1997007201/PP/

-  Transfer; United States. Office of War Information. Overseas Picture Division. Washington Division; 1944.

-  More information about the FSA/OWI Collection is available at http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.fsaowi

Medium

1 negative : nitrate ; 35 mm.

Call Number/Physical Location

LC-USF33- 002078-M5 [P&P]

Source Collection

Farm Security Administration - Office of War Information Photograph Collection (Library of Congress)

Repository

Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, DC 20540 USA http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.print

Digital Id

fsa 8a07238 //hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/fsa.8a07238

Library of Congress Control Number

2017721041

Reproduction Number

LC-USF33-T01-002078-M5 (b&w film dup. neg.) LC-DIG-fsa-8a07238 (digital file from original neg.)

Rights Advisory

No known restrictions. For information, see U.S. Farm Security Administration/Office of War Information Black & White Photographs https://www.loc.gov/rr/print/res/071_fsab.html

Online Format

image

LCCN Permalink

https://lccn.loc.gov/2017721041

Negro Rehabilitation Client in Tangipahoa Parish

 

About this Item

Title

Negro rehabilitation client, Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana

Contributor Names

Rothstein, Arthur, 1915-1985, photographer

United States. Resettlement Administration.

Created / Published

1935 Sept.

Subject Headings

-  United States--Louisiana--Tangipahoa Parish

-  Rural housing--Louisiana

Headings

Nitrate negatives.

Genre

Nitrate negatives

Notes

-  Title and other information from caption card.

-  Transfer; United States. Office of War Information. Overseas Picture Division. Washington Division; 1944.

-  More information about the FSA/OWI Collection is available at http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.fsaowi

Medium

1 negative : nitrate ; 35 mm.

Call Number/Physical Location

LC-USF33- 002076-M1 [P&P] LOT 1674 (corresponding photographic print)

Source Collection

Farm Security Administration - Office of War Information Photograph Collection (Library of Congress)

Repository

Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division Washington, DC 20540 USA http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.print

Digital Id

fsa 8a07224 //hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/fsa.8a07224

Library of Congress Control Number

2017721027

Reproduction Number

LC-USF33-T01-002076-M1 (b&w film dup. neg.) LC-DIG-fsa-8a07224 (digital file from original neg.)

Rights Advisory

No known restrictions. For information, see U.S. Farm Security Administration/Office of War Information Black & White Photographs https://www.loc.gov/rr/print/res/071_fsab.html

Online Format

image

LCCN Permalink

https://lccn.loc.gov/2017721027

Additional Metadata Formats

MARCXML Record 

MODS Record 

Dublin Core Record

An Interview with St. Helena Parish Clerk of Court Staff Denise Geoffrey

Denise Geoffrey
St. Helena Parish Clerk of Court Staff

The St. Helena Parish Clerk of Court is located in Greensburg, Louisiana. Greensburg in the parish seat. The Clerks of Court is where genealogist and family historian can find a wealth of original documents. Documents such as Marriage Records, Civil Record, Chattel Property Records, Succession Documents, Crop Liens Records,  Land Deeds and other records can be found in side the Clerk Office. Since there are no public computer terminals available, most of the documents can be located by indexes. As Clerk of Court for St. Helena Parish, Mildred T. Cyprian and her staff have done an excellent job of maintaining the court records and documents. 

During an interview with Denise Geoffrey, a member of the staff. She informed me that the courthouse has never been damages by fire and she believes that the vault is a secure place for the documents if a fire was to occur. On another note she said that the earliest records date back to 1807 and some older records can be found in Spanish and French. 

I enjoy conducting genealogy research at the St. Helena Parish Courthouse. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Geoffrey is a New Jersey resident and has no connection to St. Helena Parish; however, she had discovered the name Geoffrey in the courthouse and wonders if thee is a family connection with the Geoffrey's from New Jersey.  During the slave trade and sale, Africans and Africans born in America was sold and transported down south. I would like to think is she certain hard enough she just might find a connection. What's really amazing is Flying Ghost Production Film company owner has family ties to St. Helena Parish as well. Fagan Davis, Jr., is family are the Richardson, Knighten, and Lee families. 

Women's History Month: Everyday Achievements featuring Dr. Antoinette Ha...

Belinda Vining Trepagnier, a Trailblazer in Tangiphaoa Parish

Photo Credit
Phillip Cowart

Parishes Supportive Living,  a local Veteran-owned business, was founded in 2001 with the intention of providing independent living to Louisiana residents and has achieved that mission and more. Belinda Vining-Trepagnier is the Chief Executive Officer. Belinda is a member of the  City of Hammond Chamber. Trepagnier is a Navy veteran who was formally assigned to VT-86 and the Blue Angels air squadrons, as well as the Navy NINTISA Intelligence base. Parish Supportive Living is a large health care agency in Tangipahoa Parish. 

Starting in Hammond, La., Parishes Supportive Living  has grown to serve 10 plus parishes and is still growing. In addition to providing care for Medicaid/Medicare clients, Parishes Supportive Living provides many community services, including: food bank assistance, scholarships, sponsoring veterans' initiatives and a community radio show.  

This past October, the Hammond City Council recognized Belinda Vining-Trepagnier as recipients of this year's Wilbert L. Dangerfield Award of Excellence in a ceremony. Belinda is a wife, mother, and grandmother. Belinda is a very active member in Tangipahoa Parish. She stands on integrity and had proven leadership. Belinda enjoy spending quality time with her family and traveling. 

About Attorney Ebony Morris of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana

Attorney Ebony Morris

Ebony S. Morris is an associate attorney based in the New Orleans office of Garrison, Yount, Forte, & Mulcahy, L.L.C. She is a graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University (B.A., cum laude, 2011) and Southern University Law Center (J.D., cum laude, 2014). She became a member of the Louisiana Bar in 2014 and is admitted to practice before the United States District Courts for the Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of Louisiana and the United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. She is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association, New Orleans Bar Association, Greater New Orleans Chapter of Louis A. Martinet Society (2020-2021 President-Elect), Defense Research Institute, Claims and Litigation Management Alliance, and the National Bar Association. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Ebony has extensive experience in defending premise liability, product liability, trucking liability, retail and hospitality liability, and mass tort litigation matters. In those areas, Ebony represents product manufacturers, corporations, national franchise restaurants, insurers, and their policyholders through all phases of litigation. She has successfully obtained summary judgment in favor of a premises owner seeking additional insured status under a commercial general liability policy and has successfully obtained summary judgment in favor of a restaurant franchise owner in a premises liability matter.

Recently, Ebony was selected for inclusion in the 2020 and 2021 Louisiana Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” List, The National Black Lawyers “Top 40 Under 40,” the 2020 Lawyers of Color “Hot List,” and the National Association of Women Lawyers 2021 Rising List. She was also named as a nominee for the Claims and Litigation Management Alliance’s 2020 Young Outside Counsel of the Year Award, and she received the 2020 Outstanding Young Woman Lawyer Award from the National Bar Association Women Lawyers Division.

Source: Reprint from the National Black Lawyers Website

West Side High School Class of 1958

 West Side High School was located in Amite, Louisiana.

Source: https://africanamericanhighschoolsinlouisianabefore1970.com/contact/

Carey Hall of St. Helena Parish Appeared on the Ice Road Truckers Television Show

Carey Hall

Carey Hall a Native of St. Helena Parish, Louisiana appeared on the television series the "Ice Road Truckers. Hall is the grandson of J.D. Atkins and Lois Johnson Atkins. Hall now resides in Anchorage, Alaska. Hall is known as one of the best driver in Anchorage. He is an Ice Road Trucker to Heavy Haulers. He is also known as "Big Daddy," and  is one of the best heavy haulers out there. 

His grandfather and father Adolph Hall, both was professional trucker drivers. This was the beginning of his dreams and admirations to becoming a trucker driver.  At the young age of seven, he got behind the wheels of a 4-speed pick truck and fell in love with trucks at that point. Carey love for truck made him drop out of college to hit the road full time following that white line fever.  Men and women  like Carey oftentimes calling the trucks their home. They spend long hours behind the wheel often driving through the nights to reach their destination.

Hall knows all to well how dangerous this job can be. Driving in extreme and harsh road conditions in the winter. "It is often a matter of life or death,"  said Hall. A driver need to know how to repair his own truck, otherwise a driver can be stranded in the blistering and extreme cold weather.  Finding a mechanic shop or tow truck can be very challenging said Hall. I saw him in three episodes in season two, said his cousin Edwin Temple who is also a trucker driver. Hall haven't forgot about his family and Louisiana. He look forward to his sister Rita's home cooked meals and freshly baked cakes. One of four children born Adolph and Bernice Atkins Hall. His siblings are: one sister Rita Hall, and two brothers;  the lateStanley and Carl Hall. 

Carey Hall
Photo Courtesy of Carey Hall/Facebook

Tracing Their Steps by Bernice Alexander Bennett

Bernice A. Bennett

A visit to her grandmother's house in New Orleans, a bowl of gumbo and a table full of memories open the door for Bernice Alexander Bennett's adventure to verify that her 2x great grandfather owned a lot of land in Maurepas, Louisiana.  Maurepas is an unincorporated community in the southwestern area of Livingston Parish, Louisiana. Livingston Parish is one the Louisiana Florida Parishes. 

Tracing Their Steps is a Memoir about a journey to show how the power of oral history can serve as a guide to capturing a beautiful family history. You will learn how an African American man born before the Civil War managed to acquire over 159 acres of land during the 19th century under the Homestead Act of 1862. Bennett's research has proven without a shadow of doubt that African Americans were homesteaders. 

This compelling story will keep the reader fixated on how each step and, the many twists and turn in the journey links closer to verifying that the land did exist and further clarifies what happen to this land in the 20th century. Bernice is an award-winning author, genealogist, nationally recognized guest speaker, storyteller, and producer-host of the popular Research at the National Archives and Beyond Blog Talk Radio Program. She is also the first recipient of the  Ida B. Bennett had documented her African America roots in the Orleans, St. Helena and Livingston parishes of Louisiana, as well at the Edgefield Greenwood counties of South Carolina. 

African Americans in Covington by Dr.Eva Semien Baham

African Americans in Covington" is a collection of stories, memories and photographs covering the history, lives, and triumphs of Covington's African American community. The forward by Rev. Mallory Callahan, it was published in 2015 as part of the "Images of America" historical series by Arcadia. Covington is the seat of St. Tammany Parish government and sits north of Lake Pontchartrain in the New Orleans metropolitan area. One person of African descent was present at the founding of Covington on July 4, 1813. Most African Americans in antebellum Covington were slaves with a modest number of fee people, all of whom covered nearly every occupation needed for the development and sustenance of a heavily forested region. 

Amite Native Dr. Valerie Richardson, Author of The Vision Blueprint

Dr. Valarie Richardson

Dr. Valerie is a Mentor, Spiritual Leader, Motivational Speaker, Entrepreneur, Nutritionist, anAuthor. She is the granddaughter of the late Supt, Alexander Richardson and Missionary Melissa Wheat Richardson. She is the descendant of Thomas and Emma Vining Richardson. Dr. Richardson is purpose and passionate about provoking, praying and promoting others into purpose. What is it that you know you have a gift or calling to do? What is it that you have always wanted to do bu the fear of failure had plagued you form getting started. Let Dr. Richardson help you push past your fears and give you some foundational principles to help execute and sustain your vision with her new book: The Vision Blueprint. 

Native of Amite, Louisiana Dr. Daphne L. Richardson an Optometry Specialist

Dr. Daphne Richardson
Photo Courtesy: Dr. Richardson Facebook Page

Dr. Daphne L. Richardson is an Optometry Specialist in New Orleans, Louisiana. She is the granddaughter of Supt. Alexander Richardson and Missionary Melissa Wheat Richardson. The daughter of the late Joseph Richardson and Linda Topps. She graduated with honors from University of Houston-College of Optometry in 2002. She had more than 19 years of diverse experiences, especially in Optometery. 

Kasia Trepagnier Tangipahoa Celebrity

Kasia Trepagnier
Photo Courtesy: Kasia's Facebook page

Kasia Trepagnier is the daughter of Tangipahoa Parish Natives,  Andrew and Belinda Trepagnier. She is a descendant of Ben and Annie Richardson Vining of St. Helena Parish, Louisiana. She had appeared in 27 films including NCIS, Queen Sugar, Girl's Trip and Palmer just to name a few. Kasia is also a model  and actress who travels extensively to Atlanta and other states to model and act.

She was the top model for Bonner Borther's 2021 Top Model and participated this years in New York's Fashion Week, she was also recognized at the Essence Festival in New Orleans. She walked the red carper with other celebrities. She is currently working on a Will Smith film titled "Emancipation" that is filming in St. Francisville.  

I find Kasia to be a very kind and lively person. The sky is the limit for Kasia, and she had a very strong support system from her family. 

American Singer Irma Thomas Was Born in Ponchatoula, Louisiana

Irma Lee Thomas  was born in 1941 in Ponchatoula, Louisiana.  She started out singing as a teenager in a Baptist Church choir. She was married twice and the mother of four children. Occasionally she song with bandleader Tommy Rigley. Her first singer " Don't Mess with My Man" was released in 1959, and reached number 22 on the US Billboard R& B chart.  She worked with songwriter and producer Allen Toussaint. She appear annually at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, In 2007, Thomas was honored by her contributions to Louisiana music with induction into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. She also won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album for After the Rain.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irma_Thomas

Singer Songwriter Robert Parker "Barefootin" Passed Away at His Home in Roseland, Louisiana

Barefootin was written and performed by Robert Parker. The song reached No.2 on the U.S. Hot Rhythm & Blues Singles chart and No.7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Robert Parker, a New Orleans, Singer. He passed away at his home in Roseland, La at the age of 89. Robert was raised in New Orleans,  He was born in 1930 in Mobile to Robert and Lena Parker.

Robert performed alongside many other New Orleans Musicians such as Fats Domino, and Irma Thomas.  He started his career last saxophonist, he played with Professor Longhair on his hit "Mardi Gras in New Orleans, in 1949. Parker played with many popular New Orleans performers,  on records with Eddie Bo, Earl King, James Booker, Ernie K.-Doe, Tommy Ridgley, He backed up visiting R & B artists including Solomon Burke, Lloyd Price, Jerry Butler and Otis Redding. 

He was introduced into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame 2007. He funeral services was held last Mt. Canaan Missionary Baptist Church.  Richardson Funeral Home, Inc, Amite was in charged of the final arrangement for the singer.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Parker_(singer)#

http://www.richardsonfuneralhomeamite.com/obits

Youtube: https://youtu.be/azIytXgdggA

Wicker Water Owned by Harvey "Champ" Wicker

Harvey "Champ" Wicker

Harvey was born in 1921 to Ida and Milton Wicker. There were six children born to the couple. Milton was born in Greensburg, Louisiana in 1889. Milton lived in Alexandria, Louisiana before settling in Pensacola, Florida.  At the age of fifteen, Harvey left Pensacola, Florida after he meet his benefactor named R. Bethel. Heavery served as Bethl's chauffeur. His grandson Harvey contacted me to talk about the history of his grandfather whom he spent a great deal of time with as a child growing up.

He was married to Blanch Batte, they were the parents of four children: Harvey Anderson, Sr., Anita Louisa, Donald Edwards, SR, and Debra Ann. He went into the Army at the age of seventeen. He was a boxer, he began in boxing career in Detroit, becoming the Golden Gloves "Champ" in the Bantam Weight Division for the the state of Michigan.

Harvey started the Wicker Water business. He me Angie Dickinson, President Kennedy and Nixon. In a newspaper interview Harvey talked about his vegetables on Wicker water. The water came from an artesian week in Inyo County, owned and worked by Harvey himself.  Wicker spoke about most water we get from our taps, contain all kinds of substances. He proved a copy of a chemical analysis of Wicker water for eery bottle.

For years Wicker donated water to Pacoina Memorial Hospital. He serviced other recipients with Wicker Water. Some wrote letter about Wicker water stating that the drinking water cleared up problems such as Insomnia, indigestion, constipation and heartburn. Wicker mission was  to get the drinking water in the home coolers and on the supermarket shelves. Emmett Culligan was working on a marketing program for the water. The sales from Wicker Water Company could have make Wicker a very wealthy man. 

Source: The Funeral Program of Harvey A "Champ" Wicker & Harvey Wicker, the Grandson of Champ

Little Bethel Deaconess Board

 Please help me to name these women in this picture. I know Mrs. Janie Bell Wiliams, Mrs. Dudley and Mrs. Alma Harrison Vernon. I know that this is from Little Bethel Baptist Church in Amite, Louisiana. 

The Vernon Family of Amite, Louisiana

 

From Left to Right
Glynis Vernon Gordon, her son Vernon Gordon, Rev. Willard Vernon and his  wife
   Mrs. Alma Harrison Vernon.

The Dudley Family of Amite, Louisiana

Seated from left to right: Ms. Gisele Ricard & Baby, Mrs. Maggie Lee Dudley, Mr. O.D. Dudley, Mrs. Mildred Ricard, and Natalie Ricard. Back Row: Mrs. Norma Jean Ricard, Mrs. Tonell Ricard, Mrs. Shirley Griffin, and Craig Ricard. 

Judge Perry of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana

Judge was born in 1895 in St. Helena Parish, Louisiana. to Grofton and Margaret Hunter Perry.  He was married to Dicie Perry. He worked on his own account as a farmer. He was living at Route 1 Box 133 in Amite, Louisiana.  Siblings were: Carrie, Judge, Martha, John, Ellis, Monroe, Luvenia, Howard, Lewis, James, Duncan, and Kelly Perry. 

Monroe Perry of Amite, Louisiana

 

Monroe Perry  was born in St. Helena Parish, Louisiana to Grofton and Margaret Hunter Perry. He was married to Alice Brown Perry. I remember Mr. Monroe Perry. I can recall seeing him on Sunday's at church with his hat, suit, and white shirt. Mr. Monroe was a very tall man. He didn't say many words or at least I never heard him talk a lot. At that time the church was named Gordon Chapel Church of God in Christ. It is located in Amite, Louisiana off HWY 1045. He was a well respected man in the African American community.

Charlie Arthur and Elvia "Evie Magee Varnado

Both the Varnado and Magee families are known to reside in Pike and Wathall Counties in Mississippi. Others live in Washington and Tangipahoa, Louisiana Parishes. In counties and parishes where the Varnado and Magee surnames are known, everyone is familiar with them. Both of these families are quite large. 

Charles Arthur Varnado was born between 1861 in Magnolia, Mississippi. He died on July 30, 1936.  He was the son of Harry and Margaret  Varnado. He was married to Evie Magee in his hometown of Magnolia. He and his wife had 21 children.

Let me attempt to name some of  their children: Dewitt C, Willie M, Rachel, Richard, Lucius, Clara, Curtis,  John, Mary Margaret, Anna, Charlie Arthur, Martha, Menevie Minnie,  Minnie, Spellman, Turley, Tulny, Jesse Varnado.

Charles parents had eighteen children as well. One can only imagine how the family reunion would be for their family. One thing that is for sure, it would be a large family reunion.  Just between Charles and his father Harry there is a total of thirty-nine children. Could you imagine how many Varnado descendants there are from just these two Varnado men. Not to mention whether Charles and his father Harry had siblings or children with large families. It is possible for the Louisiana Florida Parish Varnado's to descended from this huge family tree or connected somehow. 

Were Your Ancestors Homesteaders in the Louisiana Florida Parishes?

Exploring African American History in Louisiana Florida Parishes.

I Cooked My First Thanksgiving Dinner At Our Home with Daja

My Grandson Carter Teaching His Grandmother Social Media Technology

Carter making short films
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

You are never too old to learn from anyone or anything. We can learn a lot about technology from our youth.  My grandson Carter has offered his services to manage my TikTok social media account. Carter has a passion for videoing and editing. He use his iPhone for most of his editing. Our time together is one of the things I cherish the most. All of the children are a great source of information. In particular Carter and Connor, they teach me so much about modern technology and how to use some apps. Both of them are eager to teach me something new about technology. It makes them feel good to know that their grandmother are their student.  

The most wonderful thing is we are learning together. Together we are bonding, learning, and exploring together. Of course, I had to give him the position as my manager in training.  I'm excited to see how well he does and what he can do. As I mentioned earlier in this blog, it is never to late and no one is too old or too young to learn. 

Bernard Speaks Out for the First Time About Researching With His Mother Antoinette Harrell

Bernard documentary interview
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

When Bernard was a very young child, he traveled with his mother to conduct genealogy and peonage research. They visited numerous courthouses and state archives around the United States.  Visiting museum and other historical sites were also included in their tour. At the time, "I was unaware of the importance of genealogy and peonage research,  I understand now" said Bernard. 

As part of the his interview for a documentary about his mother genealogy and peonage research, he described how much he learned from his mother, and how much he appreciate the lessons his mother taught him about family history and peonage. He   want to become involved to assist her. 

My mother used everything to teach a lesson, that's just the way she is. "Everything is a teaching moment and that is how it is in our family with her. I know that one day my mother will not be here, so I need to spend more time learning new things that she can share with me.  

Bernard traveled twenty-seven states with his mother researching. On their off time of research, he visited theme parks, local eateries, and other places for kids. His most memorable experience was going to Michael Jordan's restaurant and purchasing his first Michael Jordan basketball jersey. He was very enthusiastic about taking his African Ancestry DNA test on the Atlantic Ocean.  There are so many beautiful memories he have of his travels with his mother. 

Herbert Willie Vining

Herbert Willie Vining
Source: Ancestry

Herbert was born on March 5, 1903 in Montpelier, St. Helena Parish, Louisiana to Butman and Eva Vining. . He farmer by occupation and worked on his own account. Herbert was married to  Easter Vining. His sibling were: Ivy, Hosy, Christina, Florence, Francis, Frankie  and Hazel Vining. According to the 1930 United States Federal Census. 

Frank Vining U.S. World War II Draft Card

Frank Vining 
Source: Ancestry 

Frank Vining was born on December 22, 1908 in St. Helena Parish to Butman and Eva Vining. His siblings were: Herbert, Christina, Francis, Hilda, and Creola Vining. There could possibly be more, I documented the names that were listed in the 1920 United States Census.  He was employed by Dave Strong in Amite, Louisiana. Frank died on May 5, 1994. Frank was a labored and he lived in Vernon's Quarters in Amite, Louisiana. According to the 1940 United States Federal Census the highest grade he  completed was 2nd grade. Frank's last residence was in Pontiac, Michigan. 

Cefalu and Company the Manufacturers of Macaroni and Spaghetti in Amite, Louisiana

Cefalu and Company 
Source: The Amite Genealogy Department

Each day I discover something new. This was the first time I heard that of Cefalu and Company of Amite, Louisiana manufacturing macaroni and spaghetti. My online search for information about the Cefalu Company was unsuccessful.  The receipt shows that B. Stern had an account with Celfau and Company.  I was happy to find this receipt in the B. Stern volume of books day May 8, 1917.  The shipping point was Gullett, Louisiana. 

C J. Johnson Blacksmith and Wheelwright in Amite, Louisiana

Source: Amite Genealogy Library
Photo Credit: Antoinette Harrell

Little or no information are available about the local blacksmith and wheelwright. Horseshoeing was his specialty. Every town had a blacksmith. While browsing through the volume of books from B. Stern Co., I stumbled across this receipt dated May 1, 1917.  On April 7, B. Stern Co. was indebted to C. J. Johnson Blacksmith and Wheelwright.

He charge the company fourteen dollars and fifteen cent for his labor and materials. He shoes one mules for fifty cent, three shoes on another mules for one dollar and fifty cent.  Mules was very important for farmers before tractors came were made. They depended on their mules for their livelihood and to put food on their tables. 

The mule that my grandfather Jasper had was named Frank. He was reddish in color and was known to be stubborn at times. Well, after all, the is the nature of a mule. I know my grandfather had to get Frank shoed as sometime or another. All the older people who knew of the blacksmiths in the community have long passed away.  

Native American Arrowheads Will Be Donated to the Amistad Research Center

Courtesy of Edwin Temple
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Dr. Antoinette Harrell, a local historian and genealogist in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana have been working tirelessly to document the untold histories of African Americans in the Louisiana Florida Parishes.  The preservation of photographs, church programs, and other documents of African American people are an integral parts of her preservations goals. While working in the field on his paternal grandfather Charles Temple, he found the arrowheads.

The arrowheads were used as flint to start a fire and also used to hunt wild game. "All arrowheads aren't made out of flint," said Temple.  Temple struck them hard enough to see the sparkle. He smelled the smoke coming from the flint. He found them as different time while plowing the field on the Charles Temple homestead. He held on to them over forty years. Now, it's time to preserve them for preservation. 

When Edwin Temple consulted with Harrell regarding his discovery of Indian Arrowhead, it is believed  the Indian Arrowhead are from the Choctaw Native Americans who resided in Tangipahoa Parish and surrounding area.  The prehistoric finding is very important to Temple. He felt that he was actually holding a piece of history in his hand.  Temple wanted to make sure that the findings was preserved for research. Following the consultation with Harrell, Temple decided to donate the collection of five Arrowheads to the Amistad Research Center in New Orleans, LA for preservation.  Harrell hopes that other individuals in Louisiana Florida Parishes, will contact her to inquire about preserving their collections of photographs, documents, and other items. 

Courtesy of Edwin Temple
Photo Credit: Dr. Antoinette Harrell

Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Sunny Hill, Louisiana

Among Patsy Zanders Johnson collection of African American funeral programs, there were some church programs. One of the programs were the 3rd Annual Usher Anniversary dated December 9, 1973.  Dr. Willard Vernon was the pastor of the church in Sunny Hill, La. 

Sunny Hill is a small community in Washington Parish. On the back of the programs was the name of Usher Roll.  The following names were listed: James Brumfield, Mable Brumfield, Ardeane Brumfield, Vernie Brumfield, Marie Brumfield, Dock Butler, Arthur Barnes, Darllie D. Barnes, Edward E. Brumfield, George Brumfield, Minnie Dunn, Wallace Clark, Johanna James, Oscar James, Romance James, Kathy Henry, Mercy D. Williams, Lola Ramsey, Verse Vernon, Juanita Ricks, Pauline Williams, Millie Tate, Inez Silby, T.C. Wilson, Ellis Watson, Mae Dell Lewis, Jessie Crawford. 

Source; Patsy Zanders Johnson Collection

Oliver and Helen Williams Wheeler

Oliver and Helen Williams Wheeler

 

Oliver and married on June 15, 1947 in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana.  Oliver was born  in 1922  to John and Leatha Washington Wheeler. He died in 2012 in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana.  His siblings were: Fred, Johnie,  Lucille, Cora, Theodore, Henry, Doretha and Jospeh Wheeler.  Oliver worked as a farm hand on general farms. He enlisted in the military in 1943.

 

Helen was born in 1928 to Charley and Doretha Ricks Williams.  She died on December 27, 1993, and she is buried in Big Zion Cemetery in Roseland, Louisiana.  Her siblings were listed as: Percy, Leo, Curtis, Robert, Joseph, Vernell, and Roy Williams. 

Horace and Helen Daniels Perry of Amite, Louisiana

                   

 

Horace Perry, Sr.  and Helen Daniels were married on August 25, 1948.  Seated from left to right: Lethaniel Stevenson, Jr., Mrs. Helen D. Perry, and Kevin Carter. Standing: Horace Perry, Sr., an Ms. Connie Sue Perry.

Esaw Daniels of Amite, Louisiana (1908-1961)

Esaw was born in 1908 in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana to Joseph and Ida Lawson Daniels According to the 1910 United States Federal Census, he was living in the house with his parents and siblings. His siblings listed on the census were: Deveda, Katies, Roscoe, Ruby and Melinda Daniels. Esaw died on March 4, 1961 and is buried in Butler Cemetery in Amite, Louisiana. 

Listed in the 1940 United States census were his other siblings: Eddie, Emma, David, Ida, and South Daniels. They were living in Reeds Quarters in Amite, Louisiana. he completed the 6th grade and was a laborer. 

In Loving Memory of Mrs. Loyola "Lola" Melba Ramsey

On October 9, 2008, the sweet angel of mercy carried away the spirit of our beloved Loyola "Lola" Brumfield Ramsey. She left this temporal world and began her journey to her everlasting home in heaven. She was born on November 3, 1927 to the late Obie and Beulah Brumfield. She confessed her love for Christ at an early age and joined Mt. Olive Baptist Church. She served in many capacities in the church, including the Usher board, Missionary Board, and on the kitchen committee. She and her husband were among the first African Americans in Washington Parish to own and operate a dry cleaning business, cafe, and gas station. As part of her active community service, she assisted in transporting college students to catch the community bus to attend Southeastern Louisiana University.

Lola was united in holy matrimony to the late Charles Herbert Ramsey on June 18, 1943. To their union six children were born. She leave to cherish her memories tow sons, Charles Ramsey, Jr. of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana and Girard (Debra) Ramsey of Franklinton, Louisiana; and three daughters, Brenda Brumfield of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana, Francis (Albert) Magee of Franklinton, Louisiana. and Hilda (Kenneth) Martin of Bogalusa, Louisiana; two sisters Joe Lee Fox of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana, and Erma N. Hill of Kansas City, Missouri; four brothers, Kermit (Alene) Brumfield to Mt. Hermon, Louisiana, Otis (late Dorothy) Brumfield of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Ocie (Ora) Brumfield of Baton Rouge, Louisiana and L. M. James of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana and a beloved sister-in-law, and prayer partner, Ora Dee Brumfield  of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana. Lola legacy of love continues through her 14 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

Reprint from Patsy Zanders Johnson African American Funeral Program Collection

Bernard Temple First Youth in Louisiana to Take the African Ancestry DNA Test

Bernard mailing his African Ancestry Test
Photo Credit:Antoinette Harrell

Bernard was the first youth in Louisiana who took an African Ancestry DNA test to determine his African heritage. He grew up traveling with his mother Antoinette Harrell, who is a well known genealogist and historian. The two of them would often visit libraries, museums, and historical sites together. Oftentimes traveling to different states to research their family history. There was no alternative for Bernard but to learn about his paternal and maternal family history.

Bernard's mother wanted to make Bernard's experience one that he would never forget. She decided to take him to the Atlantic Ocean. As they stood on the on the shores of the beautiful ocean in Virginia, looking beyond what the eyes could see.

Their imaginations travelled together to explore the homeland, history, culture,  and the arts, of their ancestors. Their conversation focused on African travels and history. Their thoughts roamed deeply into the lives of  their ancestors  who endure voyages that  sailed with human cargo for the shores of West Africa. His mother wanted him to be able to identify with his African heritage. "I'm giving my son one of the best gift  parents can give a child, knowledge of self said his mother." The gifts of gifts that will last for generations, " said his mother confidently.

Patsy Z. Johnson African American Funeral Program Collection Soon Will Be Digitized at EBPL Genealogy and Special Collections

Last month Johnson was reading a news article about the preservation of African American funeral programs in the Louisiana Florida Parishes. According to the article, Dr. Antoinette Harrell, a genealogist and local historian formed   a partnership   with Richardson Funeral Home, Inc. Amite, to preserved the the historical records. 

Last year Dr. Harrell  and Richardson Funeral Home, Inc. Amite,  established a collection at the Center for Louisiana Southeast Studies Department in Hammond, Louisiana.

Johnson contacted Harrell to talk with her about her collection. Harrell invited Johnson to her home office to look at the collection and to advise Johnson what to do to preserve the collection. After hearing what Harrell had to say, Johnson was committed to preserving tis collection for future generations in her family and family historian, genealogist and researchers.  

Funeral programs serve as a memorial for the dearly departed. In the programs, information about the deceased can be found. Such as their date of birth and the death date, the names of their parents and siblings, children, and other family members. If a woman was married, there is a strong possibility that you will find her maiden name in the program, Genealogist and historian find treasures in these programs and they value such documents.

Following the completion of Dr. Harrell's database for the Patsy Zander Johnson funeral program collection,  she confirmed that it contains one hundred and sixty programs.  Harrell's database comprised of the following: surname, given name, year of birth, date of birth, place of burial and location of burial.   

A number of the programs are from the funerals of the deceased who resided in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Washington Louisiana Florida Parishes. A few of the programs were from Tylertown, Progress, and Osyks, Mississippi. Some of Tyltertown, Mississippi is a part of this collection.  The collection consist of a large number of Brumfield's and Briggs families. 

Dr. Harrell the curators for Richardson Funeral Home, Inc. Amite Funeral Programs, is promoting community awareness of the importance of preserving these rich historical collections.  Among the noted burial grounds are: Union Chapel AME Church Cemetery, Kentwood, Louisiana.  Mt. Olive Baptist Church Cemetery, Mt. Hermon, Louisiana,  Shady Grove Cemetery, Progress, Mississippi,  Crystal Springs Cemetery, Rocky Hill, Tylertown, Mississippi, Butler AME Cemetery, Amite, Louisiana,  Big Zion Cemetery,  Roseland, Louisiana, and Rocky Hill Cemetery in St. Helena Parish. 

The collection has been organized and compiled and is ready to be submitted to the East Baton Rouge Public Library Genealogy and Special Collections for digitization. All funeral programs are accessible to the public on the EBPL  Genealogy and Special Collections website. 

Links

The Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies

http://www.southeastern.edu/acad_research/programs/csls/historical_collections/archival_collections/r_s/richardson_funeral_home/index.html

East Baton Rouge Public Library

https://ebrpl.libguides.com/c.php?g=44597&p=284123

Deputy Ed Toefield Jr, and Deputy R.A. Kent Memorial Highways

Photos Courtesy: Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office Facebook Page

On November 12, 2021, a large crowd of Tangipahoa Parish Elected officials and family and friends of Deputies Ed Toefield, Jr., and Richard A. Kent III was honored as portions of Highway 51 in Amite and Highway 38 in Kentwood was dedicated in their memories. Former Sheriff Ed Layrisson gave a beautiful insight on the lives of Deputy Toefield and Deputy Kent. Members of both of their families spoke. Parish President Robbie Miller and Sheriff Daniel Edward spoke at this memorial event. 

The Life of Edward Dyson of Tangipahoa, Louisiana

Edward Dyson

Edward Dyson was born to Eloise Bringgs and Climmie Dyson on March 19, 1943 he was born and raised in Sunny Hill, LA and was a life-long resident of the Village of Tangipahoa. He married Sarah Myers and to that union reared three ambitious daughters and one devoted son. He was the first African American Chief of Police in Tangipahoa Parish and served with justice and truth for 20 years and honor. Ed serviced the Tangipahoa Parish School as a bus driver for the last 12 years of his employment. He was a member of the John T. Hilton Masonic Lodge # 44. He was baptized by Rev. Haywood Andrews and reverenced the Lord in his everyday walk in life and in some of this most infamous words. "Even and animal on the street is due a hello." He was preceded in death by his father Climmie Dyson.

His memories will be cherished by his mother, Eloise Dyson and his beloved wife, Sarah. Three daughters and a son. Margaret(Steven) of Kentwood, LA; Carla, Rhonda (Gregory), Michael Dyson (Vanessa) of Tangipahoa, LA. Nine grandchildren> Steven, LaToia, Brandon, Kevin, Jasmine, Michael, Alexis, Malik, and Adrien. Three Brothers, Woodrow (Merle). Nathan (Mary) of Indianapolis, Indiana; Joseph, and one sister, Betty both of Tangipahoa. Louisiana. Nine brothers-in-law, Teal Jr., Dallas (Nola), Eddie (Jacqueline), Alfred (Mildred). Willie Ray, Walter, Marvin, Archie, and Aaron Myers all of Tangipahoa, Louisiana; four sisters-in-laws, Lena Mae and Doretha of Tangipahoa, Louisiana, Mary of Hammond, Louisiana and Gloria of New Orleans. Special family friends, Richard Banks, Amber Allen, Mary Theresa Lewis, Abbey Gallien, Makitta Darbonne, Geil Jacobs and a host of family, friends, nieces, and nephews. 

Genealogy Discussions with Antoinette Harrell and Karran Harper Royal

Handy Burton of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana

Handy died on May 6, 1984 in Kenner, Louisiana. His services were held at Community Chapel Methodist Church in Fluker, Louisiana. He was married to Carrie Boykin Burton. . His parents were Green and Elcy Taylor Holden. Handy and Carrie were the parents of: Lula Mae, Charles, Helen, Margaret Alice, Charles W, Eural, Lorena, Lela, Henry Lee, and Douglas.  They had a total of 15 children. All are not listed here. 

Handy Burton Military Draft Card
Courtesy of Ancestry

Corrine Burton Holloway (1905-1995)

  

Corrine Burton 

Courtesy of blackwaltersr 

Ancestry

Corrine was the daughter of Tom and Martha Thomas Burton. Her birthplace was Liverpool, Louisiana.  She married John Holloway. According to the 1940 United States Census they ware the parents of: Oscar, Pearlie, Lizzie, Harriet  Holloway. I found on the 1930 United States census she also had a daughter named Emma. In 1930,  she and her family was living in McComb, Mississippi.  She died in 1995 an was buried in Venable Chapel Cemetery in Liverpool, Louisiana,  Her funeral services were held at Oak Grove AME Church in Kentwood, LA.