Early African Americans in Sumner County, both slaves and free, left a legacy not only of beautiful brick buildings and sturdy stone fences, but also a social history as rich and varied as the many tribes they represented. This exciting book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the immeasurable contributions, undeniable services, and the devotion of black Americans to the evolution of Sumner County's communities. Many of the sienna-hued photographs and Civil War-era tintypes presented here were taken when folks wore their Sunday best and didn't smile for the camera. These images, many never before published, capture everything from a "creek baptism" and bonnet worn by a local slave, to views of families and schoolchildren. The volume covers most of the early settlements in Sumner County where African Americans largely resided, from Rockland and Avondale to Scattersville, Parker's Chapel, and Gallatin.

In World War I, 104 African American doctors joined the United States Army to care for the 40,000 men of the 92nd and 93rd Divisions, the Army's only black combat units. The infantry regiments of the 93rd arrived first and were turned over to the French to fill gaps in their decimated lines. The 92nd Division came later and fought alongside other American units. Some of those doctors rose to prominence; others died young or later succumbed to the economic and social challenges of the times. Beginning with their assignment to the Medical Officers Training Camp (Colored)--the only one in U.S. history--this book covers the early years, education and war experiences of these physicians, as well as their careers in the black communities of early 20th century America.

An inspiring celebration of the accomplishments of African American professionals in Minnesota, highlighting the contributions of individuals and organizations in a wide range of fields.

Sumner County, like many of the counties of Tennessee, finds itself ever-expanding, growing from a predominantly agricultural community once marked by expansive horse farms, a colorful patchwork of sharecroppers' fields, and extravagant antebellum homes into a county full of modern-day luxuries and conveniences. Over the past 100 years, curvy, dusty farm roads eventually evolved into paved highways and interstates, and "mom and pop" stores gave way to supermarkets and expansive malls. Around Gallatin and Sumner County Volume II continues to explore and celebrate the Sumner County of yesteryear. In this volume, readers will enjoy strolling through old neighborhoods, meeting local celebrities such as "Tippy" Crutcher, Fred Astair's stand-in, holding their breath as they marvel at Crash Brown's stunt drivers, busting up illegal moonshine stills on the outskirts of town, walking through the doors of the growing industries, and gazing at grand buildings torn down in the name of progress. Through these fascinating images and their stories, this book shares a more personal side of Gallatin and Sumner County that cannot always be found in history books--a side that celebrates the everyday lives and activities of its citizens.

Intro -- Contents -- Preface -- 1. Black Nashville during Slavery Times -- 2. Religion, Education, and the Politics of Slavery and Secession -- 3. The Civil War: "Blue Man's Coming -- 4. Life after Slavery: Progress Despite Poverty and Discrimination -- 5. Business and Culture: A World of Their Own -- 6. On Common Ground: Reading, "Riting," and Arithmetic -- 7. Uplifting the Race: Higher Education -- 8. Churches and Religion: From Paternalism to Maturity -- 9. Politics and Civil Rights: The Black Republicans -- 10. Racial Accommodationism and Protest -- Notes -- Index