Curator’s Statement

My  autumn 2008 visit to Natchitoches was a delight and I have many fond feelings and delightful memories of those teachers and alumni who so kindly responded to my invitation to come together and discuss the significance of their high school. I knew my research experiences would be quite wonderful after meeting the first interviewee,  teacher and alumnus Pearl H. Payne, who arrived early and entranced me with her enthusiasm and good cheer.  

 I so appreciated the thoughtfulness and genuine pride and delight that came forth during our conversations. I learned much and laughed much as everyone displayed the love and sense of community that clearly was a hallmark of the Natchitoches Parish Training School.  I remember the radio interview where I was joined by Arthur Welch who so beautifully described the school (and inspired  Sylvia M. Morrow to take part in this research project). Of course I was charmed by the city of Natchitoches, and I thank Ed Ward and Alma Johnson for introducing me to one of the more unique and delicious cuisines of any of the research sites that I visited.  I will never forget LeRoy Wafter’s cane, and I so appreciate Geneva Barrow’s kindness. I will never forget witnessing the love and affection that so many of the participants expressed about this remarkable school. 

I so greatly appreciate the efforts of  Alma Loftin Johnson who has continued to work with me on this web exhibition. I could not have undertaken this research project without her help and, for that, I am forever thankful.