Valdosta Southside Photograph Collages (Electronic Records), 1930 - 1999

Series

Collection number: ca-004-003-001

Scope and Contents

This is a series of photographs and captions scanned from framed photo collages from the Houseal Collection featuring businesses and communities from the Southside Community of Valdosta, Georgia. It details a vibrant history of the Southside community in Valdosta, focusing on the flourishing of African American businesses and cultural life from the 1930s to the 1990s. It documents a myriad of establishments including the Liberty Club, a hub for entertainment featuring legends like Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald, alongside numerous local businesses such as barbershops, cafes, and grocery stores. The series also highlights educational institutions like Dasher High School, community services, and local healthcare providers. Notable figures and businesses are acknowledged, painting a rich tapestry of the Southside's economic and cultural history, marked by resilience and enterprise during an era of segregation. The account serves as a testament to the community's spirit and its contribution to the broader narrative of African American entrepreneurship and social life in the American South.

Dates

1930 - 1999

Creator

From the Collection: Houseal, Willie, Dr. (Person)

Historical Information

The Southside Living History Project/collection was the brainchild of Dr. Beth Higgs and Mr. Joe N. Rivers in 1995. A number of individuals in the community came together to assist in developing and completing the project. These individuals are Thelma and Charles Askew, Chenee Chisolm, Jennifer Crane, Dana Fleming, Mr. and Mrs. Dr. Arthur Hart, Dr. Willie Houseal, Mrs. Mildred Hunter, Mrs. Minnie Wilson Jackson, Nkwanda, Jab, Rosa Jordan, Johnny Kinchen, Tim Lee, and the African Theater Group. Mrs. C.H. Mitchell, EliPowell Jr., Mr., and Mrs. Joe N. Rivers, Jewrell Rivers, Carol and Lionel Rozier, Jennifer Sutton, Rev. Minister and Mrs. Willie Wade, Mrs. Jimmie Walcott, Roy Williams, and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wilson.

The Southside Living History Project/collection was shown locally for the first time in 1996 at the LowndesNaldosta Arts Commission's Cultural Arts Center by Ms. Roberta George and Mr. Joe N. Rivers. The Southside Living History Project/Collectionhad three (3) curators in twenty-eight (28) years. The curators are Ms. Beverly Sanders, Director Southside Library, Ms. Rachael Bradley, Director of the Southside Recreation Center.

Minister Floyd Rose and Minister Jay Williams are the current curators of the Southside living History Project/Collection.