38th Annual Nashville Conference on African American History and Culture

On Friday, February 8, 2019, join Tennessee State University’s College of Liberal Arts and the Metropolitan Historical Commission for a celebration of the contributions of African Americans to Nashville and Tennessee history. For thirty-eight years, this award-winning conference has brought together historians, students, educators, community leaders and others interested in African American history and culture. This year’s conference, entitled “MEMORY, MOBILITY, AND SOUND,” will examine the myriad ways African Americans have made an impact in Nashville and Tennessee, through history, story, and song.  

This year’s speakers will cover a variety of topics sure to be of interest to the audience. Interested in community history? Dr. Joel Dark (Tennessee State University) will discuss the Civil War beginnings of Edgefield while Dr. Erica Hayden (Trevecca Nazarene University) focuses on oral histories of the Napier community. Looking to learn more about Reconstruction and the Jim Crow Era? Dr. Susan Knowles (Middle Tennessee State University) and MTSU graduate students Tiffany Momon and Kellie Gibson will delve into Jim Crow-era travel made possible by the Green Book, while Lt. Col. Sharon Presley (USAR) highlights the life of “buffalo soldier” Lt. William McBryar, and Metro Council member Ed Kindall examines the remarkable Black community that thrived in Nashville under Jim Crow law. Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten the music! Dr. Don Cusic (Belmont University) will take us through a timeline of African American music and musicians in Nashville. Then singer/songwriter and activist Mr. Eric Dozier will remember the story of Black gospel music as a source of praise, protest, and purpose. Morning entertainment will be provided by Eric Dozier and Friends. Afternoon entertainment will be provided by Carlos DeFord Bailey and Band.

To download a copy of the registration form, visit our website http://www.nashville.gov/Historical-Commission/Events-and-Programs/Conference-on-African-American-History-and-Culture.aspx or call the MHC office at 615-862-7970. You can also follow us on Facebook for updates on the conference, https://www.facebook.com/afamhistory/.