Un-Sung Hero’s of Historic Preservation

History isn’t just about dates and names but about the stories and perspectives of the individuals who dedicated their lives to ensure those stories are never forgotten. Today, I want to highlight the often-unsung heroes of African American historical preservation: Black women. Faith Davis Ruffins’ article, “Lifting as We Climb,” beautifully illustrates the pivotal role of black women and their contributions through traditional oral and written works. Ruffins highlights that Black women preserved African American heritage through “oral transmission,” “written interpretation,” and “building collections of books or artifacts.” These efforts often occurred in crucial yet undervalued roles like librarians and teachers. These women actively bolstered organizations like the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASALH), although men typically held leadership roles. Ruffins notes that “the bulk of the membership has always been comprised of women,” highlighting their grassroots activism is a social practice initiated by community-led initiatives and social movements.

Black women have been overlooked in mainstream narratives for too long. This has shaped our experiences, demanding resilience and innovation in our preservation efforts. Churches were critical centers for organizing and preserving history, and Black women frequently served as archivists and leaders. They safeguarded cultural heritage and identity through memorabilia, oral traditions, and artistic expressions. Despite factual errors and embellishments, oral history offers invaluable benefits for historic preservation. It provides personal perspectives and lived experiences that written records often miss. Oral histories capture diverse narratives, enriching our understanding of the past and fostering a deeper connection. This form of preservation ensures traditions and memories are passed down, maintaining community identity and heritage. Two distinct preservation narratives reveal a gender conundrum in African American history. While no single place is devoted to preserving her memory and interpreting her legacy to a contemporary audience, expensive interactive exhibits are designed to preserve the sacred story. Frederick Douglass transformed himself into a national figure for freedom, a stance he conveyed through his prolific writings. Let’s commit to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Black women in preserving African American history. Their dedication, resilience, and innovative approaches have enriched our understanding of the past and continue to shape our present. By acknowledging their pivotal role, we honor their legacy and ensure that their stories continue to inspire future generations.