Author: ericwhite

  • Emmett Till Civil Rights Museum – Glendora, MS

    Emmett Till Civil Rights Museum – Glendora, MS

    The Emmett Till Civil Rights Museum, located in Glendora, Mississippi, is a poignant historical site dedicated to preserving the memory of Emmett Till and reflecting on the pivotal role his tragic story played in the American Civil Rights Movement. The museum is situated in the small town of Glendora, near the site where Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American boy from Chicago, was brutally murdered in 1955 after being falsely accused of offending a white woman. His death and the subsequent trial, where his killers were acquitted, sparked national outrage and became a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement

    The museum houses powerful exhibits, including photographs, documents, and artifacts related to Emmett Till’s life, his tragic death, and the broader struggle for civil rights. Interactive displays provide insights into the racial climate of the 1950s, the impact of Till’s story on the movement, and the fight for justice and equality in the United States.

  • Emmett Till Memorial

    Emmett Till Memorial

    Emmett Till Memorial in Glendora, Mississippi, holds a significant place in the history of the Civil Rights Movement as one of the key locations tied to the tragic story of Emmett Till. Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American boy from Chicago, was brutally murdered in 1955 after being accused of offending a white woman in Money, Mississippi. His death and the subsequent trial garnered national attention, highlighting the deep racial injustices prevalent in the American South at the time. In Glendora, visitors can find the Emmett Till Historic Intrepid Center (ETHIC), which serves as both a memorial and educational site dedicated to preserving Emmett Till’s legacy. The center provides detailed exhibits, historical artifacts, and multimedia presentations that recount not only Till’s story but also the broader context of racial violence and the fight for civil rights in America. Anyone interested in American history, civil rights, or the legacy of Emmett Till will find a visit to Glendora both educational and moving. The site stands as a solemn reminder of the past, encouraging reflection and a commitment to justice and equality.

  • Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Greenwood

    Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Greenwood

    Robert Johnson, the legendary blues musician, is often considered one of the most influential figures in the history of blues. His life is shrouded in mystery, and his music has inspired countless artists across generations.Born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, in 1911, Johnson’s mastery of the guitar and his haunting vocals led to the creation of timeless blues classics. His songs, such as “Cross Road Blues” and “Love in Vain,” have been covered by numerous artists, cementing his legacy in the world of music. Robert Johnson’s untimely death at the age of 27 adds to his enigmatic life story. The circumstances surrounding his death are still debated, with theories ranging from poisoning to supernatural elements linked to the infamous legend of him making a deal with the devil at a crossroads.Johnson was buried in an unmarked grave, reflective of the humble and turbulent life he led. There are several sites in Mississippi that claim to be his final resting place, including Payne Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Quito, Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Greenwood, and Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Morgan City. Today, fans and musicians visit these sites to pay their respects, leaving guitar picks, flowers, and heartfelt notes as tributes to the blues legend.Robert Johnson’s story continues to resonate, not only through his music but also in the enduring mystique of his life, death, and burial.

  • Tallahatchie County Courthouse, Sumner MS

    Tallahatchie County Courthouse, Sumner MS

    The Tallahatchie County Courthouse, located in Sumner, Mississippi, holds a significant place in American history. Built in 1902, this historic courthouse is best known for its association with the Emmett Till trial of 1955, a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement. The trial, which brought national attention to the brutal reality of racial injustice in the South, was held in this very building. Architecturally, the courthouse reflects the Romanesque Revival style, featuring a distinct clock tower and red brick facade. Its design and structure have been preserved to maintain its historical integrity. Today, the courthouse stands as both an active part of the county’s judicial system and a landmark visited by those looking to understand the profound events that took place within its walls. In recent years, efforts have been made to restore and maintain the courthouse, ensuring that it serves not only as a center of justice but also as a site of remembrance and education about the struggles and progress of civil rights in America.

  • Bryant’s Grocery & Meat Market, Money MS

    Bryant’s Grocery & Meat Market, Money MS

    Bryant’s Grocery & Meat Market holds a significant place in American civil rights history. Located in Money, Mississippi, this small, unassuming grocery store became central to a pivotal event that fueled the civil rights movement.In August 1955, 14-year-old Emmett Till, an African American boy from Chicago, was visiting relatives in Mississippi. He entered Bryant’s Grocery & Meat Market, which was owned by a white couple, Roy and Carolyn Bryant. During his visit, an interaction occurred between Emmett Till and Carolyn Bryant. While the exact details remain disputed, Carolyn Bryant later accused Till of making inappropriate advances toward her.A few days later, Roy Bryant and his half-brother J.W. Milam abducted Emmett Till from his great-uncle’s home. They brutally beat and murdered him before disposing of his body in the Tallahatchie River. The discovery of Till’s mutilated body shocked the nation. His mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, held an open-casket funeral in Chicago to show the world the brutality inflicted upon her son. The photographs from the funeral were widely published, bringing national and international attention to racial violence in the United States.The trial of Bryant and Milam was held in September 1955. Despite overwhelming evidence, an all-white, all-male jury acquitted both men after less than an hour of deliberation. Protected from retrial by double jeopardy laws, the two men later admitted their crime in a paid magazine interview.The events surrounding Bryant’s Grocery & Meat Market and Emmett Till’s murder served as a catalyst for the burgeoning civil rights movement. Notably, just a few months later, Rosa Parks cited Till’s death as an influence in her courageous decision to refuse giving up her bus seat, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott.Today, the site of Bryant’s Grocery is in ruins, but efforts have been made to preserve and memorialize its history as part of the Emmett Till Memory Project, reminding future generations of the store’s profound place in civil rights history.

  • Mississippi Freedom Trail Marker (Byrant’s Grocery)

    Mississippi Freedom Trail Marker (Byrant’s Grocery)

    The Mississippi Freedom Trail is a significant series of historical markers that commemorate pivotal sites, events, and individuals who played key roles in the American Civil Rights Movement. Established to honor the struggle for civil rights and to educate the public, these markers are strategically placed across Mississippi at locations where critical civil rights activities occurred.

    Bryant’s Grocery & Meat Market holds a significant place in American civil rights history. Located in Money, Mississippi, this small, unassuming grocery store became central to a pivotal event that fueled the civil rights movement.In August 1955, 14-year-old Emmett Till, an African American boy from Chicago, was visiting relatives in Mississippi. He entered Bryant’s Grocery & Meat Market, which was owned by a white couple, Roy and Carolyn Bryant. During his visit, an interaction occurred between Emmett Till and Carolyn Bryant. While the exact details remain disputed, Carolyn Bryant later accused Till of making inappropriate advances toward her.A few days later, Roy Bryant and his half-brother J.W. Milam abducted Emmett Till from his great-uncle’s home. They brutally beat and murdered him before disposing of his body in the Tallahatchie River. The discovery of Till’s mutilated body shocked the nation. His mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, held an open-casket funeral in Chicago to show the world the brutality inflicted upon her son. The photographs from the funeral were widely published, bringing national and international attention to racial violence in the United States.The trial of Bryant and Milam was held in September 1955. Despite overwhelming evidence, an all-white, all-male jury acquitted both men after less than an hour of deliberation. Protected from retrial by double jeopardy laws, the two men later admitted their crime in a paid magazine interview.The events surrounding Bryant’s Grocery & Meat Market and Emmett Till’s murder served as a catalyst for the burgeoning civil rights movement. Notably, just a few months later, Rosa Parks cited Till’s death as an influence in her courageous decision to refuse giving up her bus seat, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott.Today, the site of Bryant’s Grocery is in ruins, but efforts have been made to preserve and memorialize its history as part of the Emmett Till Memory Project, reminding future generations of the store’s profound place in civil rights history.

  • Red’s Blues Club – Clarksdale, MS

    Red’s Blues Club – Clarksdale, MS

    Red’s Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi, is an iconic destination for blues enthusiasts seeking an authentic Delta blues experience. Nestled in the heart of Clarksdale, this legendary juke joint has become a beloved spot for both locals and travelers looking to immerse themselves in the rich musical heritage of the region.The club exudes a raw, unpolished charm with its dim lights, eclectic decor, and intimate setting that brings you up close with the performers. Live blues music fills the air, with talented musicians delivering soulful performances that capture the spirit of the Delta. The atmosphere is electric yet laid-back, perfect for enjoying the deep, resonant sounds of guitars and heartfelt vocals.Red’s Blues Club is known for its genuine, no-frills vibe, where the focus is purely on the music. The crowd is diverse, friendly, and passionate about blues, creating a welcoming environment for all. Visitors can expect to hear both seasoned blues legends and rising local artists, making every night a unique musical journey.If you’re in Clarksdale, a visit to Red’s Blues Club is a must. It’s more than just a venue; it’s a living testament to the enduring legacy of the blues in the Mississippi Delta.

  • St. Thomas Aquinas Church – Zanesville, OH

    St. Thomas Aquinas Church – Zanesville, OH

    St. Thomas Aquinas Church U.S. National Register of Historic PlacesLocation: 130 North 5th Street, Zanesville, OhioAffiliation: Roman Catholic Diocese of ColumbusSt. Thomas Aquinas Church, situated in Zanesville, Ohio, is a distinguished historical landmark recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This remarkable church has been a significant religious and architectural presence in the region, serving as a place of worship and community gathering for generations.As part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Columbus, St. Thomas Aquinas Church continues to be an active center for faith, offering religious services, community events, and spiritual guidance to its parishioners and visitors alike. Its rich history and architectural charm make it a cherished landmark within the Zanesville community and beyond.

  • Pat Wilder – Arkansas Blues Festival 2006

    Pat Wilder – Arkansas Blues Festival 2006

    Pat Wilder is a talented blues musician known for her dynamic guitar playing and soulful vocals. Based in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, she has made a name for herself with performances that blend traditional blues with a modern edge. Wilder’s style is heavily influenced by blues legends, yet she brings her unique flair, characterized by energetic stage presence and masterful guitar solos.

    Pat Wilder has performed at various festivals, clubs, and events, captivating audiences with her heartfelt interpretations and original compositions. Her music not only showcases her technical prowess but also conveys deep emotional resonance, making her a standout artist in the contemporary blues scene.

    Fans of blues music appreciate Wilder for her authenticity and passion, as she continues to contribute to the genre’s rich legacy while inspiring new listeners with her vibrant performances.

  • Heyward Shephard Monument  – Harper’s Ferry WV

    Heyward Shephard Monument – Harper’s Ferry WV

    John Brown’s raid on Harpers Ferry took place at the federal armory and arsenal in Harpers Ferry, Virginia (now West Virginia). This event occurred in October 1859 and was aimed at initiating an armed slave revolt by seizing the United States arsenal located there.

    John Brown’s raid on Harpers Ferry was a pivotal event in American history that occurred from October 16 to 18, 1859. John Brown, a fervent abolitionist, led a group of 21 men—including both Black and white followers—in an armed attempt to initiate an uprising against slavery in the Southern United States.

    John Brown was deeply committed to the abolitionist cause, believing that slavery was a moral abomination that needed to be eradicated through direct action. Prior to the raid, Brown was involved in violent conflicts in “Bleeding Kansas,” where he fought pro-slavery settlers.

    Brown and his men seized the federal armory at Harpers Ferry, Virginia (now West Virginia), with the goal of arming enslaved people and sparking a widespread slave rebellion. Despite initial success in capturing the armory, the raid quickly unraveled. Local militia and townspeople surrounded the raiders, and U.S. Marines, led by then-Colonel Robert E. Lee, were dispatched to suppress the insurrection. After intense fighting, Brown was captured, and most of his men were either killed or apprehended. Brown was tried for treason against the Commonwealth of Virginia, murder, and inciting a slave insurrection. He was found guilty and executed on December 2, 1859.

    Though the raid itself was unsuccessful, it had profound consequences. It intensified the sectional tensions between the North and South, fueling the national debate over slavery. Brown became a martyr for the abolitionist movement in the North, while the South viewed the raid as proof of Northern hostility toward their way of life. This event significantly contributed to the rising tensions that ultimately led to the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861. John Brown’s raid on Harpers Ferry remains a powerful symbol of the fight against slavery and the lengths to which individuals were willing to go to challenge the institution of human bondage.