I enjoyed researching my History Lover’s Guide to Lincoln book. Seeing the impact made by different cultures was fascinating. The African American community was no exception. Two of Lincoln’s early churches were primarily populated by those ready to start a new life after slavery.  Juneteenth (June 19th, 1865) was the day when African Americans across the country were acknowledged as being free. Less than two years later, Nebraska officially became a state.

John Johnson captured many images of black Lincoln families.  The book, Lincoln in Black and White, shows many of them.

 

Other iconic moments …

Months before Marion Andersonsang in front of the Lincoln Memorial, she performed at the St Paul United Methodist Church.

MLK spoke at a youth rally …

 

Nebraska History Museum does display some examples of prejudice. Not everything was perfect.

 

MORE COMING SOON!

 

Author: neodyssey

My name is Gretchen Garrison. I started this blog about Nebraska in 2013. So far, I have written three books about Nebraska and Lincoln.