African-American Oral History Project Grant
(posted 5-14-02)

The Harrisonburg-Rockingham Historical Society has received a grant for $2500 from the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities for an African-American Oral History Project. This project will identify and interview selected African-Americans within the Harrisonburg and Rockingham County community. By focusing on church history from about 1900-1960, the study hopes to gain glimpses into the cultural life of this community, including music, education, and the drastic results of the city redevelopment program. Scholars from James Madison University will conduct training seminars and act as consultants. These scholars include Gabrielle Lanier, professor of history; Chris Bolgiano, special collections librarian; and Olen Burkholder, media technician. Volunteer interviewers have graciously agreed to participate in the project and contribute their valuable time. The grant primarily covers the cost of transcription by the Reporting Service. In December 2002, the transcription will be made available on computer disc to the following libraries: James Madison University, Eastern Mennonite University, Bridgewater College, and Massanutten Regional Library. The originals will remain at the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Historical Genealogy Library.

More information is available at African American Heritage in Virginia, Virginia Foundation for the Humanities.
(Note: All publicity must credit the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities)