Hosts Nicole Franklin and Bryant Monteilh introduce audiences to Mary Othella Burnette, the 90-year-old author of the self-published book Lige of the Black Walnut Tree: Growing Up Black in Southern Appalachia. This adventure story offers a rare peek into this slice of Americana. Music by David Monteilh.
Hosts Nicole Franklin and Bryant Monteilh introduce audiences to author Mary Othella Burnette. Ms. Burnette self-published her book Lige of the Black Walnut Tree: Growing Up Black in Southern Appalachia. This adventure story covers the history of her community--a number of which are her extended family members. This poignant visit back in time beautifully describes the life of Black Mountaineers from a daughter descended from quite a colorful history. Mary Othella Burnette recalls her grandmother's memory of having the Emancipation Proclamation read to her family when she was five years old. Two years later--and years before Juneteenth became a popular reference--Black Mountaineers referred to their freedom as The Great Surrender. As one would suspect, Ms. Burnette's oral interview with host Nicole Franklin is just as captivating as the words on the pages of her memoir. Her life story is a rare peek into this slice of Americana.
Music by David Monteilh