Today marks the 118th anniversary of the birth of poet, playwright and social activist Langston Hughes. To my astonishment, shortly after he celebrated his birthday in 1949, Hughes came to Wilson to deliver a lecture in the auditorium of Darden High School. The event marked a celebration of National Negro History Week, and its proceeds went to support the Wilson Negro Library‘s bookmobile fund.
Wilson Daily Times, 8 February 1949.
Wilson Daily Times, 9 February 1949.
- Langston Hughes
- Matteele Floyd
- Hattie Lee Dixon — in the 1940 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Daniel Carroll, 34, billiard parlor owner; wife Lenora, 34; and step-daughter Hattie Dixon, 18.
- Annie Cook Farmer
Hat tip to Wilson County local historian Tammy Medlin for leading me to this story.
Very cool! I’m sure you were thrilled when you discovered this piece of history.