Hawkins Seeks Info On Area’s African American History
For almost a year Calvin Hawkins has been gathering information from old newspapers (above), church records and other sources for a documentary he is preparing on African American history from the area. He is seeking information on African American history from 1870 to 1970. – Photo by David Howell
Hawkins Seeks Info On Area’s African American History
Staff Report
WATER VALLEY – Calvin Hawkins is working to gather information for a documentary featuring Water Valley’s African American history from 1870 to 1970 and is seeking the public’s help in recovering the lost history and memories from this era.
The project started almost a year ago, and Hawkins has spent countless hours compiling information. He is now reaching out to the public for assistance in locating old photographs and vital information to make this African American history project a great success.
“If you have any information, or know any former citizens, students or residents of Water Valley that may have documentation or pictures of church history or school pictures from this era, please let me know,” Hawkins said. “Input from the community is vital in helping recover, document and preserve the history and memories from this era before it is lost forever,” he explained.
Valuable information could include the history of past or present churches, schools that were housed in churches, as well as information about the Water Valley Colored Elementary School, Water Valley Colored High School, Davidson Elementary School, Davidson High School, the African American railroad workers and the African American males that served in the United States military during this era.
Hawkins reiterated that he has already gathered a lot of church history and pictures, but still needs information to ensure the 100-year era is as inclusive as possible.
After the project is completed, a presentation will be made and copies of the documentary will be placed in local libraries, the Yalobusha County Historical Society and Casey Jones Railroad Museum.
“I started this project because I realized there is a great amount of African American history that is currently not documented for our town. Again, I urge anyone that has related pictures or history to contact me,” Hawkins said. He can be reached at (662) 816-8133 or at cehawk1@live.com.
