Glimpses of Black Life along Bayou Lafourche

About the Book

This book describes experiences of Black people who lived throughout the Mississippi River–Bayou Lafourche Region of South Louisiana during the period 1875–1975. These writings cover four parishes (counties) including Saint James, Ascension, Assumption and Lafourche. This area of Louisiana is steeped in American history, beginning in 1803 with the Louisiana Purchase. The region’s uniqueness is revealed as we reflect on the Great Depression and the economy, the area and its people, the cuisine, health and home remedies, folklore (customs, fads, and superstitions), homesteads and family life, the three Rs and secondhand books, the music of our lives, our “hometown heroes” and their participation in the defense of our country starting with the Revolutionary War through the Vietnam War, and much more.

About the Author

Curtis Joseph Johnson was born on October 14, 1931, in Port Barrow (later Donaldsonville), Louisiana. He cannot recall having a boring day in his life, especially during his early childhood and teen years. These times were filled with unlimited fun activities as well as learning experiences every day of each year. He was active in programs from elementary school through college, and his work history covered a wide and diverse range of opportunities. As a teenager, these included selling vegetables and river shrimp, grassing rice, cutting firewood, to name several. After college, he completed an army career, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. He worked in public administration, receiving two Governor’s Distinguished Service Awards, served as a community college and university instructor and business consultant and trainer.