H
MY HISTORY is OUR HISTORY.
ere at home or and the world. The museum anywhere in is housed in the historic St. the U.S., when Paul Baptist Church, one of I tell folks the oldest structures built by I’m from Boise, Idaho, they Blacks in the state of Idaho often offer a stunned look, in 1921. followed by a predictable I must admit I have a BY CHERIE BUCKNER-WEBB question. “But where precious connection to are you from originally?” that little church. I was The question confirms a “raised up” in those pews and I am indebted to the church common misconception that Blacks only reside in the community that so powerfully contributed to values I South or major, metropolitan cities. As a fifth generation, hold dear. Familial, societal, educational, spiritual and Black Idahoan, I proudly share that, “Black folks are religious–the values instilled in that little one room church everywhere, even in Idaho.” will guide me forever. My great-grandfather, William Black History Month seems like the perfect time to provide a snapshot of the rich history of Blacks in Idaho from the vantage point of my role as one of the founding board members of the Idaho Black History Museum.
Situated in Julia Davis Park, the Idaho Black History Museum (IBHM) was established March 10, 1995 by a group of visionary Idaho citizens committed to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of Blacks in Idaho
Riley Hardy, founded the St. Paul Baptist Church in 1908. For years, the congregation met as a “house fellowship” in member’s homes, Gottlieb Lach’s Blacksmith Shop, and the GAR Hall as the congregation struggled to locate a permanent location. The elders stayed the course and their prayers were answered in the person of Mrs. Gestal of 124 Broadway Avenue. That courageous Basque woman contacted Rev.
“St. Paul is the most significant physical symbol of the place Black Americans have in the history of Idaho and of our city.” -Arthur Hart, Director Emeritus, Idaho Historical Museum
www.idahomemagazine.com
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