Some of the most unique and complicated friendships that formed in the twentieth century were between progressive white women and their African-American housemaids. While American literature and Hollywood have recently made noble attempts to shed light on these special relations, with such novels and films like The Help, it is never more moving than to hear directly from those who experienced these unlikely and important bonds of support and mentoring.
Thanks to Lani Seikaly, the director of RiverArts, we have one remarkable example. As part of a long term oral history project, Seikaly recently interviewed Chestertown’s beloved centenarian Reba Warren about growing up in Kent County.
In this segment, Reba tells the heartwarming tale of her friendship with her employer, Francis Young of Chestertown, some seventy-five years after they first met.
Not much is known of Mrs. Young. There are no photos and obituaries found online. By the time Francis had hired Reba, she was without a husband and her only son was attending St. Andrews School in Middletown. And so for the next four years, these two women would live and travel together, and would form part of the foundation of Reba Warren’s strong sense of self-worth and identity.
The audio lasts six minutes
mary Wood says
It must be a very interesting story, but I couldn’t make the film work.
Editor says
Audio fixed. Thank you.
Alf says
wonderful education and insights for all of us.
Robbi Behr says
What a wonderful record of two special women. Thanks for preserving and sharing this little piece of history, Lani.
ARMOND FLETCHER says
I am so glad finally the true story is told of the authentic relationships that helped build this beautiful community it’s a snap shot of many untold stories of many whites and blacks in Chestertown learning, living and surviving together naturally no matter the Era……Thank You for this story……..Peace…..Armond
Larry Samuels says
As a reletively new resident of Chestertown (approximately five years), and having met Reba Warren, it was heartwarming to hear her story about the caring relationship with her employer – no, more than employer, obviously seems like family. Knowing intellectually about the effects of racism and seperation is one thing, hearing first hand from people who faced it with courage and compassion is another. When we share our lives together in a community as blacks and whites, this should be the normal way of living. Thank you for making this exceptional piece of history available.
Pam Cleary says
It was terrific to sit next to Reba in the Garfield to watch the youth present their talent and diversity. I love finding women I look up to for their strength, stamina and spirituality. Let’s continue to have cultural events that bring the old and young together to celebrate our lives and progress. I will never forget the beautiful photo portrait and interview display speaking out about the Black experience in this county over the years. And isn’t our new African American historic tour map a fabulous and much needed addition! More uncovering of our history continues and is compelling and surprising. Let’s keep our dialogue open and our expressive efforts flowing forward.