Early Lufkin Texas: From an African American Perspective (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798463896995)

This book is set in the small East Texas town of Lufkin during the 1930s - 1960s. It is a time not far removed from its own founding. We follow this community as they enjoy the benefits of industrial growth brought on by railroads, timber and World War II. This is a story about a generation of African American men and women who struggled for racial equality and to have their collective voices heard. Ultimately, it is about how an entire generation paved the way for others to follow.

Early Lufkin Texas from an African American Perspective traces the development of the Negro education system in Lufkin from early grade schools to its first and final High Schools. It examines the inequities born by Jim Crow and segregation. It also explores the joy and entertainment that the average Negro citizenry enjoyed, whether teen dates at the park, dancing with their zoot suits at the various dance halls or listening to B.B. King and Duke Ellington at the local club as part of the "Chitlin Circuit."

This book also documents the rich history of the Negro church in Lufkin. The book shows how churches have modernized and identifies key figures that lead that growth. Early Lufkin honors the proud athletic history of Dunbar High School with a particular emphasis on Coach Elmer Redd and the Dunbar Tiger football team.

Unfortunately, the African American story has largely been untold. Negro accomplishments and successes have been given relatively short shrift compared to the white titans of industry and city leaders. Many blacks felt that it was as if they didn't matter and thus rendered African Americans invisible while in plain sight.

Early Lufkin Texas from an African American Perspective, does not focus on discrimination and injustice. Rather, it represents a modest attempt to document their legacy to appreciate and pass this knowledge forward for future generations.

Author: Ron R. Price
ISBN-10: 8463896995
ISBN-13: 9798463896995
Publisher: Independently Published
Language: English
Published: 04/05/2022
Pages: 238
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.71lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.50d