Historical Society To Salute Black Musicians On Feb. 10
The Chattooga County Historical Society will celebrate Black History Month at its regular membership meeting scheduled for 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 10 at the historic Summerville Depot. According to Reba Phillips Welch, the group’s program vice president, “We are so pleased to reprise last year’s musical program. The proposed lineup will be thoroughly entertaining.”
Linda Farmer Hawkins has again assembled a stellar group of singers for this celebration. Ms. Hawkins, a Historical Society board member, will act as emcee and will weave a historical narrative into tribute performances by local artists. She said, “Our goal is to present a program everyone will enjoy – both for musical pleasure and to learn a bit of the history behind some of America’s most memorable performers.”
The 2019 cast will include the Floyd/Chattooga Mass Choir who will perform a medley of Negro spirituals, while the Oak Hill Male Chorus will also perform a spiritual as well as a modern-day gospel number.
The Foster Family will be on hand, portraying the Fisk Jubilee Singers. Larry Anthony will be portraying Thomas Dorsey, one of America’s favorite early 20th century writers and performers. Lindra Finley, who portrayed Ethel Waters last year, will channel Mahalia Jackson at this year’s celebration.
JENEAL JOHNSON
SINGS
ARETHA FRANKLIN
The group Mosley 14 will be performing as well as Deja Bankson, who will do a mime and dance to the familiar song “Wade in The Water”. LaToya Aker, a cousin of the immortal Roland Hayes, will present one his songs. Finally, Jeneal Johnson, whose rendition of Pearl Bailey brought down the house last year, will pay tribute to an American treasure, Aretha Franklin.
Historical Society President Gene McGinnis said, ”We are so pleased to host this program. I am grateful to Linda and all those who will be performing. We invite everyone to join us for a memorable meeting and for refreshments following the program.”
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SOCIETY
Meetings of the Chattooga County Historical Society are free and open to the public. Membership is comprised of almost 300 families, both from inside and outside the county. Family memberships in the organization are $20 per year and include a quarterly publication—and all are welcome to join. Contact the Society at P.O. Box 626, Summerville or via email at chattoogahistory@outlook.com.