In this series, which will post on occasional Wednesdays, I populate the landscape of Wilson County with imaginary “historical markers” commemorating people, places, and events significant to African-American history or culture.
We been here.
Former site of Golden Rule Kindergarten. The Daniels home, which stood in front of the school building, was recently demolished.
Founded 1947 by Rev. Hattie Daniels. Operated in building behind her home at 908 Wainwright St. For nearly 30 years, educated hundreds of East Wilson children. Legacy continues at Hattie Daniels Day Care Center.
1955 Graduate …
I am because Rev. Hattie Daniels was who she was to hundreds and hundreds of black children in Wilson.
For years, I would always visit with her and daughter Deborah when I returned home , just to say THANK YOU over and over again. The neighborhood that housed her home and her school was my neighborhood, namely, one block over on Manchester St .
I am a proud alum of the Class of 1958…..my very first graduation that I modeled after when I became a School Principal and even later as a Dean of Students, I incorporated her leadership training. I am grateful for my upbringing in the likes of stellar African American Educators as Rev. Daniels.
There is always a story before the story….these grounds represent that story. This is sacred ground.
Thanks, Lisa, at least for the digital marker. I am hopeful that in the very near future a permanent marker will be affixed in the neighborhood. However, the school will always be affixed in our ( the alums) spirits and in our contributions to mankind.