Bertha Landis (center) with her children in 1985. Photo provided by Tom Davenport.
Topics Related to African American History
Halifax, North Carolina, was an important part of the Underground Railroad in North Carolina. With the largest free Black population of any county in the state in the antebellum period, the community provided a network to help freedom seekers as well as a place to blend in.
Abolitionist & maritime captain. Emancipated self and family. He published autobiography ca. 1843. Labored & lived nearby.
African American culture and history have deep roots in North Carolina. Across the state, these stories are preserved in special locations dedicated to honoring the experiences and achievements of African Americans. Here are 10 places to explore Black history in North Carolina:
Confederate attack on U.S. troops, April 1864 led to killing of Black soldiers and civilians. Atrocity diminished the placement of Black troops in N.C.
Opened in 1927 to serve Black patients during Jim Crow era. Housed nursing school, 1929-1954. Operated here until it relocated in 1966.
The historically Black community of Kingsboro organized to stop hog slaughterhouse efforts, 1996. Environmental victory. Met 1/2 mile west.
State supervisor of Black elementary schools, 1915-1934. Est. N.C. Congress of Colored Parents and Teachers. Was Gates Co. Jeanes Supervisor, here.
Was grassroots civil rights attorney. Advocate for voting rights. Among first Black law students at U.N.C., 1951. Served in WWII. Born nearby
Founded in 1909 by civic-minded African American women. Promoted social causes. Early statewide meetings held here.