4 local African Americans to be honored at museum

Living history event also part of the event

Rev. Chauncey Mann

On Sunday, February 24, at 2 p.m. in the Middlesex County Historic Court House in Saluda, four local African Americans will be honored for their achievements.

Willie Tyrell Boyd will be honored as the first African American Eagle Scout in the 64-year history of Boy Troop 341, which is based at Christ Church Parish in Middlesex County.

Tony Banks, assistant Scoutmaster, who holds the Wood Badge Award, which is the highest recognition Scouting gives to leaders who complete their highest level of training, will present a photo of Boyd to the Middlesex County Museum & Historical Society as the foundation for a permanent display for local Scouting achievements.

Rev. Chauncey Mann, former longtime pastor of Grafton Baptist Church, will be honored for his many years of important ministry and community involvement. A permanent exhibit will be established at the museum honoring Rev. Mann’s work.

During the program, Dr. Wesley Wilson, a living historian and co-founder of “Voices of Freedom,” will play the role of Pvt. James Daniel Gardner who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his extreme bravery during the battle of New Market Heights. Pvt. Gardner was born at Ware Neck in Gloucester.

Dr. Saundra Cherry will portray the character of Harriet Tubman, a spy and secret agent for the Union. Tubman was known as the “conductor and general” because of her covert and extensive knowledge of Confederate areas of operation. 

The February 24 event is free to the public and light refreshments will be served in the museum annex following the program.

For more information, call museum president Marilyn South at 776-6983.

posted 02.13.2013

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