|
Web Sites Honoring the Achievements of African Americans As Acting NPS Director Denis Galvin mentions in the memo on the last page, the National Park Service has more than 28 sites devoted to the achievements and struggles of African Americans in this country. Logging on to the National Park Service's nps.gov and typing in "African Americans" on its search engine produced a staggering 3510 results. The results range from short articles like that of Valley Forge's Diversity in the Continental Army to the extensive National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom site. Included among those web sites are, of course, our two Richmond National Parks. The Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site's web page includes basic information on the park's physical site, including special events as they occur at the site, as well as a point of contact for more information. Clicking on the blue "In Depth" button will take virtual visitors to the site's expanded home page. This page contains pictures of Mrs. Walker throughout her life, a timeline of her life and accomplishments, a short biography and one of Mrs. Walker's most famous speeches. Return to the site for continued updates, including that of a children's site, expected to be in place by the end of the year. Two years ago Richmond National Battlefield Park added to its expanded home page an extensive site on the African American troops who fought at the battle of New Market Heights in Henrico County, and the web site continues to draw accolades. "USCT Medal of Honor Recipients" details the story of 14 men of the United States Colored Troops who earned the Medal of Honor for valor during the September 29, 1864 engagement. Richmond National Battlefield Park recently received the following email from a relative of one of those brave soldiers: As an ancestor of Robert Pinn, I thank you so much for posting information on his achievements (especially his portrait). I own all three of the medals Uncle Robert wears in the photo. Additionally, Pinn attended Oberlin College after the war and passed the Ohio Bar. Afterwards, he practiced law and aided Colored soldiers in obtaining veteran benefits, since many were uneducated and could not read. Again, thanks Frances Finally, the National Register of Historic Places has created a special feature for African American History Month. This site promotes "awareness of and appreciation for the historical accomplishments of African Americans". The site showcases National Register historic properties and publications and National Park units commemorating African American achievements and contributions of American history. Also listed are newly designated National Historic Landmarks, including those associated with the Underground Railroad and Public School Desegregation. All of these sites, from small to large, contain a wealth of information for those wishing to do research for themselves of their children or grandchildren. Take time to visit them the next time you are online. |
Last updated: February 26, 2015