Dean Allen to Talk About Importance of Preserving History

Photo by Russell Cothren

Dean Carolyn Henderson Allen

SPRINGDALE, Ark. – Dean Carolyn Henderson Allen of the University of Arkansas Libraries will speak about "Forgotten Voices, Untold Stories" and the importance of preserving both print and oral history, especially of those like the early black settlers in Northwest Arkansas who are often overlooked or forgotten.

Her lecture is part of the Washington County Historical Society's observance of Black History Month, which will take place from 3-5 p.m. this Sunday, Feb. 15, at the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History in Springdale.

In addition to Allen, the program offers a reading of poems, including "Centennial" written by George Ballard, who was considered the "poet laureate" of Fayetteville's African American community during the 1920s and '30s. The poems will be read by Henry Lee Childress, a local teacher and coach who is a descendant of black Northwest Arkansas settlers and who also writes poetry. "Centennial" was written to commemorate Fayetteville's centennial in 1928 and was published in the local press and included in Ballard's book, Ozark Ballards.

Ocie Fisher, a local singer, will present selections reflecting the music of black Northwest Arkansas settlers, including jazz, blues and gospel music.

The historical society will premiere a video of Betty Davis produced by Sarah Moore and Trey Marley, funded by a Curtis H. Sykes Memorial Grant from the Black History Commission of Arkansas. It provides insights into the culture and lifestyle of early black settlers in Washington County and through the 19th century.

The Washington County Historical Society will also release an annotated bibliography of articles, audios/videos, photographs related to post-Civil War black settlers in Washington County, compiled by John Erwin.

The event is open to the public and will include light refreshments. Professional development credits are available for teachers.