Image Gallery

African Prince- Around Grave 2

A Prince Lies Here Story in Alumni Bulletin

African Prince- Alumni Bulletin Story

African Prince- Paying Respect

African Prince- Grave

African Prince- Around Grave, Backs to Camera

First Account of African American Community in Kenyon Yearbook 1908 (1)

First Account of African American Community in Kenyon Yearbook 1908 (2)

1908 Class Picture

Wayman AME Church Photograph

Wayman AME Church Persons identified: Shirley Herndon, Hib Myers, Sally Parker, Shirley Davis, Barb Stevens, Helen, Clyde Turner

Kid Jackson Photograph

Photograph of Kid Jackson

Mount Vernon Giants Photograph

Photograph of the Mount Vernon Giants Baseball Team

Mt. Calvary Church Choir Photograph

Photograph of the Mt. Calvary Church Choir

Mt. Calvary Church Congregation Outside Church Photograph

Photograph of Congregation Outside Mt. Calvary Church

Photograph of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Choir Record

Photograph of a Record by the Mt. Calvary Church Choir ca. 1948

Photograph of White's Tavern

Photograph of Frank White in front of White's Tavern ca. 1948

Ellamae Simmons at home

Dr. Ellamae Simmons relaxes before her fireplace at home in her retirement in the California Bay Area

AME and MV area Youth Choirs

AME and MV area Youth Choirs

Dian Hammonds Skating ca. 1940s

Photograph of Dian Hammonds (skating) ca. 1940s

Postcard to Gus Ralls

Post card makes mention of parading, suggesting it came from someone in the military; Postcard sent to Gus Ralls by unidentified person

Bud Anderson and Dad Anderson at Farmer's Picnic

Photograph of Bud Anderson and his father taken at farmers' picnic.

Mary Ralls

Photograph of Mary Ralls

Willard Simmons

inscription on back of photo "Willard was the son of Aunt Mary"; Photograph of Willard Simmons, proprietor of photography studio

Gus and Mary Ralls

Back of the photo appears to list one of the women as Aunt Becky and the other as Agnes Harris; Photograph of Gus and Mary Ralls with Aunt Becky and Agnes Harris

Bud Rouse

Photograph of Horace "Bud" Rouse, Jr. when he was about 18 years old

Viola Anderson

Photograph of Viola Anderson

Bess Ralls Pearl and Elizabeth Bordon ca. 1920

Elizabeth Bordon is the step sister to Mary Kelly Ralls. Elizabeth is the daughter of Jordan Robb who took Mary Kelly Ralls to be raised in Xenia, Ohio. Picture was taken across the street from Bess Ralls Pearl's house at 105 Brown Street...

Betty Jane Ralls ca. 1922

a post card photo formatted for postage and an address; Photo of Betty Jane Ralls when she was 1 year old.

Aunt Etta Ralls Mayo and Walter Mayo

Photograph of Aunt Etta Ralls Mayo, her husband Walter Mayo, and an unidentified woman

Samuel Payne at Lamb Glass Company

Sam Payne rose to the rank of day supervisior at Lamb Glass; photo of Samuel Payne at Lamb Glass company

Betty Jane Ralls ca. 1940

Photograph of Betty Jane Ralls

Aunt Hattie

May have been a 20th Century Club event; Photograph of Vera Payne, Oneida Fisher, Agnes Reynolds, Emma Rose Simmons, Shirley Herndon, and Mable Mayle standing around a table at what is likely a reception hosted by a women's club.

Black Football Player ca. 1950

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook; likely person is Dick Carter; Photograph of an unidentified black football player for Mount Vernon High School in 1950

Ellamae Simmons honored by Mt. Vernon City Council

news article recounts efforts to obtain nursing degree and medical degree despite obstacles; photo of Varian Simmons Wilson accepting award for her aunt, Ellamae Simmons.

Lon Hammonds at Camp Sychar II circa 1900

photo of Lon Hammonds and coworkers at Camp Sychar

"200 at program by colored club"

"200 at program by colored club. Two hundred people attended the "hotcha" entertainment presented the evening of May 12 in the hall over the J.C. Penney Co. store by the S.S. club, a group of young colored people headed by George Booker. ...

Kokosing Elks Lodge ca. 1992

Photograph of Kokosing Elks Lodge No. 1085, cinder block building located on West Gambier Street, known locally as the "Black Elks Club."

George Booker and others ca. 1990

Photograph of George Booker and others at what may be a church function

Andrew Lewis marches in parade

Andy Lewis, longtime member of American Legion Post 349, marches in parade

Color Guard on Square

photo of George Lawson, member of Post 349 of American Legion while serving on color guard during ceremonies on Public Square

Karen Sheffield and Jim Byrd

Friends Karen Sheffield and Jim Byrd share a light moment outside the Kokosing Elks Lodge.

Elks Kokosing Lodge circa 1973

Photograph of members of local Black Elks club. Probably at time of installation of officers with attendance by district or regional officers. Lodge was located on West Gambier Street in Mt. Vernon, Ohio.

Ryuse Tennis Men

Ryuse family is one of the most accomplished athletic families to have come from Mt. Vernon. All members of the family, including the daughters, were tennis champions, as well as athleticly talented in other sports. They became the first...

American Legion Post Color Guard ca. 1970

Photograph of a man standing next to the grave of Dan Emmett with two members, Andrew Lewis and Gilbert Newsom, of American Legion Ben Carter Post 349 color guard in the back.

Elks Kokosing Lodge News photo ca. 1970

Photo of Elks Kokosing Lodge officers appearing in Mt. Vernon News in 1970.

John Hogan and Joyce Myers Hogan

Photograph of John Hogan and his wife, Joyce Myers Hogan ca. late 1960s

Birth of Dixie news photo

Photo of 3 Black persons appearing in play. Rev. James Frazier's first name is misidentified as William; News photo appearing in Mt.Vernon News in mid-to-late 1960s about theatrical production called Birth of Dixie in which local Black...

Jim Byrd Football ca. 1966

photo appeared originally in high school yearbook; Photograph of Jim Byrd when he played football for Mount Vernon High School in 1966

Jim Byrd Football ca. 1965

photo appeared originally in high school yearbook; Photograph of John Byrd when he played football for Mount Vernon High School about 1965

Betty Ralls Proffit ca. 1965

This photo was originally published in the Mt. Vernon News and is republished with permission of the News.; Photograph of Betty Ralls Proffit at work

Joe Brooks Football ca. 1964

photo appeared originally in high school yearbook; Photograph of Joe Brooks playing football for Mount Vernon High School in 1964

Johnny Bob Payne ca. 1964

photo appeared originally in high school yearbook; Photograph of Johnny Bob Payne when he played football for Mount Vernon High School in 1964

Jim Byrd Football ca. 1964

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook; Photograph of Jim Byrd when he played football for Mount Vernon High School about 1964.

Gilbert Newsom ca. 1964

Photograph of Gilbert ("Gib") Newsom, Mt. Vernon High School janitor, with a student

Byron Payne youth baseball team, ca. 1964

Photo from personal collection of Johnny Payne, who identified his brother, Byron Payne, in the photo.; Photo of Byron Payne with his youth baseball team, ca. 1964.

Jim Byrd and MVHS Baseball ca. 1963

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook; Photograph of Jim Byrd when he played baseball for Mount Vernon High School in 1963.

Jim Byrd Football ca. 1963

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook; Photograph of John Byrd when he played football for Mount Vernon High School around 1963.

Joe Brooks Football ca. 1963

photo appeared originally in high school year book; Photograph of Joe Brooks when he played football for Mount Vernon High School in 1963.

Midge McGee with fox stole

Lena "Midge" McGee wearing a fox stole

George Booker ca. 1960s

Photograph of George Booker in a suit and tie.

Bertha Hammonds and Night Blooming Cereus

Bertha Hammonds shows her somewhat rare nightblooming cereus plant. Gardeners took pride in being able to cultivate this plant. Members of the Mt. Vernon Colored Garden Club, like Charles Turner, displayed these plants that bloomed only...

Dixie Days Queen chosen

Centennial celebration of "Dan Emmett's song 'Dixie.'" Branstool named queen. Brokaw placed second, and Taylor was third.; Six finalist vying for the title of Dixie Days Queen in June 1959 include Marie Taylor

The African Prince- Collegian 1957

Joseph Booker and Class Photo 3 ca. 1950s

Photograph of Joseph Booker and his elementary school class

Barbara Stevens and Mount Vernon High School Glee Club, ca. 1955

Photograph of Barbara Stevens and the Mount Vernon High School Glee Club in 1955

Gene Payne, Kenyon College Nurse

Gene Payne was the resident nurse at the Kenyon College health service in the 1950s and 1960s, serving under Dr. Thomas Bogardus; Photographs of Gene Payne working as a nurse at Kenyon College

Memorial Day program

While program shows that American Post 349 participated in parade, it failed to include Ben Carter among the list of local veterans who died in World War I; copy of Memorial Day celebration program from mid-1950s showing participants and...

Barbara Peterson ca. 1955

Photograph of Barbara Peterson from the Mount Vernon High School 1955 Forum Book.

Joseph Booker and Class Photo ca. 1950s

Photograph of Joseph Booker and his elementary school class

Joseph Booker class photo ca. 1950s

Photograph of Joseph Booker and his class in elementary school.

Bud Rouse, Dan Hill, Jr Rus Anderson, and Lew Myers

Photograph of Bud Rouse, Dan Hill, Jr. Russell Anderson, and Lew Meyers standing next to a house.

Bertha Hammonds and Gregg Sheffield, Karen Sheffield

Photograph of Bertha Hammonds and two grandchildren, Gregg and Karen Sheffield.

Charles Turner shows his nightblooming cereus

Charles Turner displays his night blooming cereus. Charles Turner was a member of the Mt.Vernon Colored Garden Club. Cereus plants were unusual in blooming only once a year, often for a single evening. Turner's bloomed on July 31, 1951...

Herbert Booker ca. 1950

Photograph of Herbert Booker standing outside in the snow.

George and Herbert Booker ca. 1950

Photograph of George and Herbert Booker

George Booker ca. 1950

Photo of George Booker standing out in the snow

Herbert Booker ca. 1950

Photograph of Herbert Booker

Gene Rouse (center holding football, wearing No. 40 jersey) and his Central State University football team, circa 1950

Rouse became an All-America player; inducted to Central State U. Athletic Hall of Fame in 1991

Varian Simmons rides in parade

Varian Simmons rides her horse in a local parade ca. 1950

Viola Booker ca. 1950

Inscription on back of the photo says that she was a nurse. She was also an active "club woman" who was an officer or member of various clubs and organizations including Household of Ruth, Court of Calanthe, Booker T. Washington Club, Mt...

Walter Mayo

Photograph of Walter Mayo ca. 1950

Mary Louise Rouse's 4th Ward School ca. 1950

Teacher was Mrs. Ronk; Photograph of Mary Louise Rouse and her 4th grade class.

Carter on High School Golf Team ca. 1949

Photograph of (unknown first name) Carter on the Mount Vernon High School golf team in 1949.

American Legion Color Guard Mt. Vernon Black Veterans ca. 1949

photo of local Black veterans who marched in Memorial Day parade; Sam Sheffield Jr. appears on left holding flag.

Parade Color Guard

Black veterans assembled before a parade in Mt. Vernon; 2nd from left is Stan White, far right is Sam Sheffield, Jr.

Dick Carter ca. 1949

photo was excerpted from the team photo; Photograph of Dick Carter on the Mount Vernon football team in 1949. Excerpted from high school yearbook.

Richard Carter, Early Black Football Player ca. 1948

photo originally appearing in high school yearbook; Photograph of Richard Carter, black football player for Mount Vernon High School, taken from high school yearbook.

Tillie Sheffield and Bertha Hammonds in Garden

Photograph of Tillie Sheffield and Bertha Hammonds admiring flowers on the Hammonds lawn.

Hammonds Sheffield Family Photo

Photograph of the Hammonds Sheffield White families at home of Lon Hammonds.

Willis Taylor, Mount Vernon Football, ca. 1940s

Photograph of Willis Taylor when he played football for Mount Vernon High School during the 1940s.

Joseph Booker ca. 1947

Photograph of Joseph Booker as a baby, son of George Booker and Geraldine Walker Booker.

Mary Louise Rouse's 4th Ward School ca. 1947

4th Ward Elementary School, probably 1st grade; Photograph of Mary Louise Rouse and her 1st grade class.

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Choir ca. 1947

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Choir ca. 1947

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Full Choir ca. 1947

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Full Choir ca. 1947

Stanley White's Honorable Discharge Papers ca. 1945

Image of Stanley White's military document indicating his honorable discharge from the U.S. Army.

Vera Payne and Peggy Sharp, Mount Vernon Girls Basketball, ca. 1945

Photograph of Vera Payne and Peggy Sharp on the Mount Vernon High School Girls Basketball team in 1945.

Army Sergeant Lester Martin WWII Era

Photograph of an Lester Martin with two medals on his breast pocket;

Bud Rouse, Betty Ralls Rouse, and others ca.1945

Photograph of Bud Rouse (aka Horace Rouse, Jr.), Betty Ralls Rouse and others

Lon Hammonds and Helen Hammonds

Hammonds' home featured elaborate gardens, pergolas, trellises, bird baths, and the like. Purportedly it had one of the first area tennis courts as well; Photo of Lon Hammonds and daughter-in-law, Helen Hammonds, sitting under his pergola

John Payne, Jr. with baseball glove, ca. 1944

Photo from the personal records of Johnny Payne, who identified his father, John Payne Jr., in the photo.; Photograph of John Payne, Jr. wearing baseball glove on left hand, location unknown.

Clarissa and Marlena Anderson ca. 1944

Photograph of Clarissa Anderson holding her baby Marlena

Military Easter Program ca. 1943

Program for a military Easter celebration in which George Booker was a performer/participant.

Gene Payne graduates from nursing school

class photo given to her "Aunt Annie and Uncle Charles" Turner; class photo of Gene Payne, believed to have been taken at the time of her graduation from nursing school in 1943

Daniel Cowen in Navy ca. 1943

Daniel Cowen and Navy commanders in photo postcard sent from Cowen to Gus Ralls

Gene Rouse Football ca. 1942

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook.; Photograph of Gene Rouse when he played football for Mount Vernon High School in 1942.

Alice and Shirley Meyers ca. 1942

Alice Meyers and daughter Shirley

Clarissa Ralls, Beattie Payne, Nellie Jones, and Wanda Glover ca. 1942

Photograph of Clarissa Ralls, Beattie Payne, Nellie Jones, and Wanda Glover as graduates from Mt. Vernon High School.

Steel Workers Organizing Committee Membership Book

Image of George Booker's membership book for the Steel Workers Organizing Committee

Club Lincoln of Columbus Charge Card ca. 1941

Image of George Booker's Club Lincoln of Columbus Member's charge card

John Payne and his Army Base Baseball Team, ca. 1941

Photo from the personal records of Johnny Payne. His father, John Payne Jr., appears in the photograph, first row second from right.; Black baseball players including John Payne, Jr. taken on Army base, ca. 1941

Gene Rouse Football ca. 1941

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook.; Photograph of Gene Rouse when he played football for Mount Vernon High School in 1941

Gene Rouse Football ca. 1941

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook; Photograph of Gene Rouse when he played football for Mount Vernon High School in 1941

Harry Blake and Gene Rouse, Mount Vernon Basketball, ca. 1941

Team photo with nick names: Rouse had nickname "Kayo" and Blake, "Lone Ranger"; Photographs of Harry Blake and Gene Rouse when they played basketball for Mount Vernon High School in 1941

George Booker and Geraldine Walker Booker ca. 1940s

Photograph of George Booker and Geraldine Walker Booker

Black Football Player ca. 1940s

Photograph of an unidentified black football player for Mount Vernon High School during the 1940s

Coshocton colored baseball team ca. 1945

Photograph of colored baseball team from Coshocton, Ohio

George Booker at Rudin Company

Photograph of the employees of the Rudin Company including George Booker (back row on right) and an unidentified black employee (back row on left).

Unidentified Veteran

Photograph of an unidentified veteran outside of a VFW, likely a WWII soldier.

Gus Simmons and buggy ca. 1940

Gus Simmons with his horse-drawn buggy ca. 1940

Ella Mae Simmons in service ca. 1940s

Ella Mae Simmons in uniform while serving in the Army Nurse Corps ca. 1940s

Ella Mae Simmons, the nurse ca. 1940s

Simmons graduated from Hampton University in 1940, later worked as a nurse and social worker before graduating from medical school. She became the first Black woman doctor at Kaiser Hospital in San Francisco, California in the 1960s....

George Booker Misc. Pins

Misc collection of pins, service buttons, medals and rings of George Booker's

Vernon Lodge No. 43, F.& A.M., Colored Masonic Lodge ca. 1940's

Men identified by Betty Ralls Rouse Profitt, likely the officers of the Lodge at the time; Photograph of Bruce Bass, Charles Turner, Myron "Bud" Morehead, Horace "Bud" Rouse, Jr., and George Keys

Betty Ralls Rouse, Clarissa Ralls Anderson, and Beattie Payne Fields ca. 1940

The owner was not sure if the first girl was indeed Beady Payne.; Photograph of Betty Ralls Rouse, Clarissa Ralls Anderson, and Beattie Payne Fields

Betty Jane Ralls with Bass ca. 1940

Photograph of Betty Jane Ralls playing the double bass.

Clarissa Ralls with Violin ca. 1940

Photograph of Clarissa Ralls playing a violin

Betty Jane Ralls with Saxophone ca. 1940

Photograph of Betty Jane Ralls holding a tenor saxophone

Gene Rouse ca. 1940's

Photograph of Gene Rouse dressed in service uniform.

Gene Rouse and his mother, Louise

Photograph of Gene Rouse and his mother, Louise Rouse ca. 1940

Miniature Gun ca. 1940s

miniature gun found among military service medals and pins; Miniature German handgun found in a metal container of George Booker

Decorated Container

items found among Booker's military pins and medals, may be items collected while serving oversees; Image of a decorated container found in a larger metal container of George Booker's

Decorated Container 2

item found among Booker's military service pins and medals, likely acquired while serving oversees; Image of a decorated container found in a larger metal container of George Booker's

Ellamae Simmons graduates from Hampton's nursing school

Ellamae Simmons, a first generation college student from Mt. Vernon, Ohio, graduates from nursing school in 1940 at Hampton Institute in Virginia

Betty Ralls with Tenor Sax ca. 1939

subject reported that she was the first colored girl in the high school marching band.; Photograph of Betty Ralls with a tenor saxophone

Club Regal Season Pass

Club Regal was a social club and bar located on Long Street in Columbus that was frequently primarily by African Americans. Mt. Vernon Black folks would often go there for recreation and entertainment.; Image of George Booker's 1939...

Marian Anderson 1939

Marian Anderson returned (after 9 years and a national award) to Mount Vernon to perform at the Memorial Theater to an anticipated sold-out audience.

Stan White Football ca. 1938

photo appeared originally in high school yearbook; Photograph of Stan White on the Mount Vernon High School Football team in 1938

MVHS Marching Band 1938

note on back of photo indicates that Betty Ralls was first colored member of the high school marching band. other Black members are identified on the back of the photo; Betty Ralls played the tenor saxophone; Photograph of the Mount...

Veteran of Foreign Wars Club Membership Card ca. 1938

Image of George Booker's membership card for the Veteran of Foreign Wars club- post 3490

Ellamae Simmons' nursing school classmates ca. 1938

Image of Ellamae Simmons nursing school class at Hampton on the steps of the Dixie Hospital where they did their practical training.

Gene Rouse ca. 1937

photo is excerpted from team photo appearing in high school yearbook; Photograph of Gene Rouse when he played football for Mount Vernon High School in 1937.

Stan White Basketball ca. 1937

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook; Photograph of Stan White on the Mount Vernon High School reserves basketball team in 1937

Stan White Football ca. 1937

excerpt taken from photo originally appearing in high school yearbook; Photograph of Stan White on the Mount Vernon High School football team in 1937

Mount Vernon Athletic Park ca. 1937

This park was the site of numerous athletic contests in which local Black athletes performed; Photograph of the Mount Vernon Athletic Park in 1937

Steel Workers Organizing Committee Dues Envelope ca. 1937

Image of the envelope for the Steel Workers Organizing Committee due card that was among the possession of George Booker

Community Music Club Ticket ca. 1937

Image of George Booker's Community Music Club ticket for the 1937-1938 season

Club Regal Temporary Membership Card ca. 1937

Club Regal is advertised on the card as "Columbus' smartest night spot"; Image of George Booker's temporary membership card to Club Regal

Charles Bloce Canteena Club Membership Card ca. 1937

Image of George Booker's membership card for the Charles Bloce Canteena Club

John Payne, Paul Myers and Richard Byrd on football team ca. 1936

photo appeared originally in high school yearbook; Photograph of John Payne, Paul Myers, and Richard Byrd on the Mount Vernon High School football team in 1936.

Vera Payne and Oneida Fisher as children ca. 1936

Photograph of Vera Payne and Oneida Fisher as children.

Stan White and Charles Cowen on Football Team ca. 1936

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook; Photo of Stan White and Charles Cowen on high school junior varsity football team in 1936

John Payne Football ca. 1936

photo originally appeared in high school yearbook; Photograph of John Payne on the Mount Vernon High School football team in 1936

John Payne Football ca. 1935

photo appeared originally in high school yearbook; Photograph of John Payne on the Mount Vernon High School football team in 1935

John Payne Basketball ca. 1935

photo appeared originally in high school yearbook; Photograph of John Payne on the Mount Vernon High School basketball team in 1935

John Payne Basketball 2 ca. 1935

Photograph of John Payne on the Mount Vernon High School basketball team in 1935

John Payne Football ca. 1934

photo appeared originally in high school yearbooks; Photograph of John Payne on the Mount Vernon Football team in 1934 and description of his play as it appeared in high school yearbook

White's Tavern ca. 1930s

Frank ("Whitey") White and presumably an unidentified employee; Photo of Frank White, owner of White's Tavern, and an employee

Luke Morton, Mount Vernon Giants, ca. 1930

photo excerpted from full team photo; Photo of Luke Morton taken from group photo of the Mount Vernon Giants, local African-American baseball team

Colored Fraternal Organization, K of P Officers ca. 1930s

Photograph of Bud Morehead, Will Newsom, Sam Payne, George Newsom, and Charles Turner, and two unidentified men; likely the officers of the Thompson Lodge of the Knights of Pythias

Lon Hammonds in Downtown Mt. Vernon ca. 1930s

Photo of Lon Hammonds standing against his car outside store in Downtown Mt. Vernon ca. 1930s

Hilbert Myers's baseball glove ca. 1930s

The baseball glove worn and used by Hilbert "Hib" Myers

Herbert Booker, Mount Vernon Giants, ca. 1930

Team was sponsored by local African-American business owner Frank L. Turner. Team purportedly played local African-American and white teams as well as regional and national teams that scheduled games while traveling on the circuit. They...

Gus Goins, Mount Vernon Giants, ca. 1930

Team was sponsored by local African-American business owner Frank L. Turner. Team purportedly played local African-American and white teams as well as regional and national teams that scheduled games while traveling on the circuit. They...

Horace Rouse, Mount Vernon Giants, ca. 1930

Team was sponsored by local African-American business owner Frank L. Turner. Team purportedly played local African-American and white teams as well as regional and national teams that scheduled games while traveling on the circuit. They...

John Kelly, Mount Vernon Giants, ca. 1930

Team was sponsored by local African-American business owner Frank L. Turner. Team purportedly played local African-American and white teams as well as regional and national teams that scheduled games while traveling on the circuit. They...

James "Rags" Smith, Mount Vernon Giants, ca. 1930

Team was sponsored by local African-American business owner Frank L. Turner. Team purportedly played local African-American and white teams as well as regional and national teams that scheduled games while traveling on the circuit. They...

Gus Simmons and hay wagon ca. 1930

Simmons was known as a skilled horseman. He also used his teams and wagon in his trash hauling business which his son, Lawrence, continued; Gus Simmons giving son, Lawrence, and other boys a ride on his hay wagon

Samuel Payne, Mount Vernon Giants, ca. 1930

Team was sponsored by local African-American business owner Frank L. Turner. Team purportedly played local African-American and white teams as well as regional and national teams that scheduled games while traveling on the circuit. They...

Doc Anderson Riding a Horse ca. 1930

Photograph of Doc Anderson riding a horse

Elizabeth Ralls and cousin Mag ca. 1930

note on back of photo indicates they were adopted sisters of Mary Ralls; Photograph of Elizabeth Ralls and cousin Mag

Ethel Hammonds

note on back of photo indicates that subject is the mother of Diane Ryuse; photograph of Ethel Hammonds next to a house

Aunt Etta and Walter Mayo

Note: many of Mayo's carvings can be seen in the background.; Photograph of Aunt Etta and Walter Mayo in his garage

Russell Anderson's Plane

Photograph of Russell's plane at a hangar in Cincinnati

Viola Booker, Club Woman

Viola Booker was the most prominent Black woman in Knox County from the 1920s through the 1940s. The list of civic and social clubs and organizations in which she served as officer or member is long, including Booker T. Washington Club...

First organized baseball league in Mount Vernon, 1928

From Our Files" column from the Mount Vernon News. League organized by Fred Hayes in 1928. Photo identified by Melvin Higgins, whose brother played in the league. John Payne, Sr. identified in the photo by his grandson Johnny Payne.; Mount...

Betty Jane Ralls and Clarissa Ralls ca. 1928

check date, does not match with back of photograph; Photograph of Betty Jane Ralls and Clarissa Ralls as children

The Forum 1926 Mount Vernon High School Yearbook Black Graduates Page

Booker T. Washington Club Meets 1921

MEETINGS [...] ***Booker T. Washington club will meet at 2:30 Thursday at the home of Mrs. Lavina Cowan, Coshocton avenue.

The Democratic Banner: Ben Carter Killed in Action

National Guard Colored Foreign Deaths Killed in action: Carter, Ben, Mt. Vernon, September 1, 1918.

"In India" theatrical cast photo

Operetta performed at the Mt. Vernon High School auditorium. Admission was 35 cents.; Photo of cast of "In India," an operetta performed by the Mt. Vernon Colored Women's Glee Club in 1921. Back row from left to right: Gus Goins, Viola...

In India Photograph ca. 1921

In India ca. 1921

The Democratic Banner: The Booker T. Washington Club Meets

MEETINGS [...] ***The Booker T. Washington club meets at the home of Mrs. Ella T. Newsom, 11 Greer street, Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock.

20th Century Club and Booker T. Washington Club

COLORED CHILDREN TO BE ENTERTAINED The Twentieth Century club and the Booker T. Washington club of this city will have a party at Riverside park, Monday, June 7, from 1 until 5 o'clock for all the colored children in the public schools who...

Mt. Vernon Giants Baseball Team

Photo of Mt. Vernon Giants all-colored baseball team with sponsor/backer Frank Turner

Members of Colored Women's Glee Club

Viola Booker and other members of Mt. Vernon's Colored Women's Glee Club. Top L-R Ethel Reynolds, Gertrude Jones, Mable Mayle; Bottom L-R Lena "Midge" McGee and Viola Booker

Pas Goins, Fred White, Tobe Thomas, and Gus Ralls ca. 1920s

photo may be that of minstrel group that Goins was said to have formed; Gus Ralls, Fred White, Tobe Thomas, and Pas Goins musical performance group

Buddy Rouse ca. 1920s

Photograph of Buddy (Horace Rouse, Jr.) Rouse as a child.

Chris Anderson ca. 1920

on the back states that Chris Anderson was later an alcoholic; Photograph of Chris Anderson dressed in a suit standing in front of a house

Gus Ralls and Gus Goins ca. 1910-1920

This may be from a theatrical or minstrel team to which Goins was thought to have been a member; Photograph of Gus Ralls and Gus Goins

Gus Simmons

Photograph of Gus Simmons sitting in a chair ca. 1920.

Knights of Pythias Record Book, ca. 1919

Photograph of the record book for the Knights of Pythias fraternal organization in 1919. Book is signed by S. J. (Samuel J.) Simmons.

The Democratic Banner: Vena Funeral at Calvary Baptist Church

VENA FUNERAL The funeral of Andrew Vena, who died Tuesday, at 9:30 o'clock Thursday at the Calvary Baptist church.

The Democratic Banner: Baptisms on the Kokosing River

BAPTIZE IN KOKOSING About 200 people gathered at the West High street bridge Sunday afternoon to witness the baptism of two into the Calvary Baptist church. Rev. J.C. Carpenter of Columbus performed the ceremony.

Clubs Contribute Twenty-Five Dollars Each to the Cause

Y.W.C.A. DRIVE A BIG SUCCESS County About To Go Over The Top Again COLORED WOMEN REPLY Clubs Contribute Twenty-Five Dollars Each To The Cause Knox county is about to "go over the top" again, according to all indications. This time it will...

Viola, George, and Joseph Booker

Joseph Booker was born into slavery around 1856. After manumission, he migrated north into Ohio, eventually settling in Mt. Vernon; Photograph of Viola, son George, and Joseph Booker

The Democratic Banner: Colored Women's Clubs Discuss Suffrage, Prohibition, Red Cross

CLUB WOMEN IN FAVOR OF A DRY UNITED STATES State Federation Closes Session Here Wednesday Evening SUFFRAGE AND RED CROSS DISCUSSED Retiring President Given Two Hand-Bags; Notes Of The Day Discussion of current problems, Red Cross work, and...

The Democratic Banner -- A.H. Simmons Estate

Files Election-- A.J. Williams, beneficiary under the will of A.H. Simmons, filed his election to take the devise of real estate situated at 304 Calhoun street, in lieu of the proceeds of the sale of the same, in the probate court on...

Mt. Vernon Democratic Banner -- Grand Court of Calanthe

The title of the section reads as "Colored," where the descriptive sub-title states "Knights of Pythias holding state meeting in Delaware -- Mayor welcomes delegates." "Delaware July 26 -- The reception to the delegates at 8 o'clock at the...

A.H. Simmons Will Disposition 1916

GENEROUS DISPOSITION Of Property Directed In The Simmons Will Relatives Made Beneficiaries Of Majority Of Estate Residue Is To Be Divided Among Decedent's Friends Hite As Assignee Brings Action In Partition Other Notes From The County...

A.M.E. Church Drive 1916

CLASS NO. 5 Of A. M. E. Church Leads--Total of $828.53 Secured It was reported at the A.M.E. church Monday night that Class No. 5, Viola Booker, leader, had turned the largest amount into the fund for repairs to the parsonage and for...

The Democratic Banner: Association of Calvary Baptist Ministers Holding Session

ASSOCIATION OF CALVARY BAPTIST MINSTERS HOLDING SESSION HERE The Eastern Union Ministerial Institute, comprising pastors of Calvary Baptist churches through southern Ohio, is holding a three-day session here, starting Friday night at 7:30...

A.H. Simmons Estate Appraiser

Roy Estate-- James A. Schaeffer has been appointed administrator of Maggie Roy, and has given bond in a surety company in the sum of $2,400. The appraisers are John Richardson, A.H. Simmons and Charles Hamilton.

The Democratic Banner: Baptisms on the Kokosing River

A number of people were baptized Sunday afternoon by Rev. Hampton of the Calvary Baptist church. The ceremonies took place in the Kokosing river at the West High street bridge. There was a large attendance at the ceremonies.

An elder Ben Snowden ca. 1915

photo of elder Ben Snowden, ca. 1915, appearing Way Up North in Dixie by Howard and Judy Sacks

Mary Kelly and her charge

Photograph of Mary Kelly with a child that she took care of

Ben Carter's Brother, Roy Carter, Arrested in Cleveland 1914

ARREST Of A Colored Boy In City Of Cleveland Wanted Here For Defrauding An Inn-Keeper Roy Carter, colored, of Cleveland was brought to Mt. Vernon Saturday morning by Chief of Police Parker and placed in the city lock-up to await...

The Democratic Banner: Last Will of Bertha C. Payne Filed

The Last Will Of Bertha C. Payne Is Filed [...] The Payne Will-- The last will and testament of Bertha C. Payne, late of Mt. Vernon, has been filed in probate. By the terms of the will she gives to her son, Kenneth Payne, her piano and all...

Knights of Pythias Dues Roster

Photograph of the dues roster for the Thompson Cooper Lodge of Knights of Pythias for the years of 1912 and 1928.

Colored baseball team plays Mt. Vernon, ca. 1911

Newsclippings about Columbus colored baseball team playing in Mt. Vernon

Black Football Player ca. 1910

Photograph of an unidentified black football player for Mount Vernon High School about 1910

Kid Jackson, the fighter ca. 1910

publicity shot for boxer, standing in a fighting pose in a studio, probably Hezekiah Jackson

Ulyses Reynolds and Augustus Goins

Ulyses Reynolds is second from left and Augustus Goins is fourth from left; Black man second from right is unidentified

Ernie Brown and Gus Ralls ca. 1910

Back of photo said Ernie Brown and Dad Ralls; Photograph of Ernie Brown and Gus Ralls.

Charles and Anne Turner

Photograph of Charles Turner and his wife Anne Turner ca. 1910.

Court of Calanthe, ca. 1909

Shining Light No. 43, women's auxiliary or affiliate for the Thompson Cooper Lodge of the Mt. Vernon, Ohio colored K of P. From back left, Mary Rawls, Clara McGruder, Bessie Newsom, Louise Hill, Charles Hamilton, Anna Turner, Ella...

George B. Keys barber shop

photo of George B. Keys standing in front of his barber shop in 1907. Barber shop is located in the old Bishop Building in Mt. Vernon.

George B. Keys

George B. Keys stands in front of his barber shop in 1907. The barber shop was located in the old Bishop Building. (Mount Vernon News archives)

Black Basketball Player ca. 1906

Team photo of 1906 Mt. Vernon basketball team with one unidentified Black player.

Mt. Vernon High 1906 Basketball Champions

Team photo from high school yearbook. Willard Simmons was on the team and may have been the first Black player on a Mt. Vernon high school team.; Team photo of the 1906 Mt. Vernon High School basketball team including Willard Simmons

Lon Hammonds at Camp Sychar circa 1900

photo of Lon Hammonds and co-workers at Camp Sychar

Harry Simmons MV first Black Football player ca. 1900

photo taken from news article but originally appeared in high school yearbook; Photograph of Harry Simmons, first black football player for Mount Vernon High School in 1900

Byrd family with American Indian tribe ca. 1900

photo features American Indians in full regalia who are related to the Byrd family of Mt. Vernon

Viola Booker

Photograph of Viola Booker ca. 1900

Unidentified Couple

Photograph of an unidentified couple

John Ralls, Gus Ralls, and Fred White band ca. 1900

Photograph of John Ralls, Gus Ralls, and Fred White with instruments; appears to be photo of a singer group, band or performers.

Harrison Judy House ca. 1900

Picture of Harrison Judy house on West Gambier Street with three children standing in front

Theatrical Performance ca. 1900

Photograph of a black theatrical performance, unknown performers, believed to have taken place in Knox County in early 1900s

Bill Lewis ca. 1900

Photograph of Bill Lewis

Bill Ralls ca. 1900

Bills Ralls was Aunt Bessie's son. Photo was identified by Gene Rouse as that of Gus Goins; Photograph of Bill Ralls as an older child or late teen dressed in a cowboy costume

Elizabeth Borden ca. 1900

Photograph of Elizabeth Borden sitting on a bench

Elizabeth Borden and Mary Ralls ca. 1900

Photograph of Elizabeth Borden and Mary Ralls

Elizabeth and Raymond Borden

Portrait photograph of Elizabeth and Raymond Borden

Unidentified School ca. 1900

Item in the possession of Knox County resident but with no identifying information as to location or any person seen in photo; Photograph of children in front of an unidentified school

House and Two Young Children ca. 1900

Photograph of two unidentified young children standing in front of a house with a barn in the background

State Sanitarium ca. 1900

Postcard photograph of the state sanitarium with five unidentified women; in possession of relatives of former employees of the facility

Aunt Hattie ca. 1900

Photograph of Aunt Hattie taken by Peerless Photo Co.; photograph of "Aunt Hattie" believed to be Hattie Lewin

Large House ca. 1900

Photograph of a large white house with unidentified family sitting on the porch

Bernard Lane family ca. 1900

Other person identified on front of photo; Bernard Lane is in the front row first from the left. Mary Lou Henderson is in the top row.; Group photograph including Bernard Lane, Agnes Harris, Aunt Beckey and Mary Lou Henderson along with...

Gus Ralls, Gus Simmons, and Fred White

Location is likely the Ohio State Sanitarium where the three were employed; Photograph of Gus Ralls, Gus Simmons, and Fred White standing on steps, probably leading into a unit at the Ohio State Sanitarium.

John Ralls, Gus Ralls, and Fred White band ca. 1900

Photograph of John Ralls, Gus Ralls, and Fred White with instruments; appears to be a band of performers.

Midge McGee sitting in parlor

Lena "Midge" McGee was born around 1879 and worked as a domestic for most of her life. She saved her money and eventually purchased a home, a duplex on East Ohio Avenue, renting out the upper portion of the dwelling to other "colored...

Knights of Pythias Officer List, ca. 1894

The page depicted is a part of a multiple-paged membership and dues record books; Photograph of the officer list for the Knights of Pythias fraternal organization in the year of 1894, taken from the membership book

Inside cover Thompson Cooper Lodge of Knights of Pythias Installation Book, ca. 1894

Photograph of the inside cover of the installation book for the Thompson Cooper Lodge of Knights of Pythias in 1894.

Colored Republican Club

"Colored Republican Club. An Enthusiastic Meeting. An Organization Effected. The Ticket Greeted with Cheers. Speeches of Gov. Kirk, and Mr. Jupiter. A meeting of the colored voters was held on Monday evening at the hall of the Young men's...

Thompson Cooper Lodge of Knights of Pythias Pins and Seal

Photograph of the seal and various pins for the Thompson Cooper Lodge of Knights of Pythias fraternal organization.

Thompson Cooper Lodge of Knights of Pythias Charter

Photograph of the Thompson Coooper Lodge of Knights of Pythias charter document

Knox County Courthouse ca. 1880

Photograph of the Knox County Courthouse, ca. 1880s in the possession of local Black family, perhaps because a relative worked there

Snowden Family Band instruments ca. 1880

photo of a tamborine owned by members of the Snowden family band ca. 1880

Snowden Family Band instruments 2, ca. 1880

photo of flute owned by the Snowden Family band in the late 1800s and early 1900s

Thompson Cooper Lodge Knights of Pythias Bible

Photographs of the Thompson Cooper Lodge of Knights of Pythias Bible.