history

During my visit with Jane Meader Nye, volunteer in the Saratoga County Historian’s Office, I was able to see her current project--an Index to African-American History. “It all started with the abolitionists, many of whom have not been identified before”, she said. Read More

Jean Douglas wants to know her name. Oh, she knows the name her parents gave her. She knows the names of her parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. But beyond that, where did her family come from? It is a mystery Douglas would love to solve someday. Read More

The old slave quarters of the Aiken family reveal many stories of slave life and culture in Charleston in the 19th century. Ironworking and the ability to cultivate rice are two of the many technical skills the slaves brought to the United States, contributing to Charleston's economic and rich cultural development.

The realty sign touted Taft as an Oklahoma town to call home "amid healthy, happy and prosperous surroundings.” For some black families yearning to escape the scourge of discrimination in the early 20th century, the invitation was too good to pass up. By 1920, more than 50 all-black towns had been established in Oklahoma. The stories of 15 will be on display at the Cameron University library Monday through Feb. 25. Read More