I had a chance to go back to my roots this weekend in North Carolina. It’s always a good trip because I am always able to learn something new about my people and about the state. Did you know that there is an area near Durham, NC known as Hayti? As a matter of fact, it was the first documented use of the name Hayti; the name was found on a land deed in 1877 for a lot sold on the southeast end of the city to a group of African American citizens.I’m sure you recognize the resemblance in spelling to the Independent Island nation of Haiti or Ayiti (Land of Mountains).
The origin of this obvious dedication and admiration to the Island nation of Haiti is unknown, but it should be noted that US map makers as early as 1867 referred to all black settlements as Hayti. Some historians also feel that the newly freed Africans in America felt a kinship with the people of Haiti in their continued fight for freedom and independence.
Definition: arbre de la liberté (Liberty tree)
Information Source: soulofamerica.com
Map Sources: www.ah.dcr.state.nc.u and remax-caribbeanislands.com
15 comments:
Thanx for that education, Brother Stephen. History constantly fascinates me as an adult - makes me wonder how/why instructors bored me with it so DEEPLY all through school - OH, cuz they never made any references to people who looked like shades of me (except to remind us how beat down we were;-). Would definitely be a bonus to meetcha if u can stop thru on April 7th! Always seeking Blogger photo ops;-). LOL!
Capcity-
Happy you can appreciate the history. I love it. Photo ops? Cool. I'll wear my 3 piece suit. :)
Man sounds great, i bet u ate good
Interesting! I had no idea. I love to learn new stuff.
I love the way people from North Carolina speak! That aside, thanks for an education. I know I've said it before but you are my source for black history! Keep it coming! Btw, I have put new photos of the bambino on Facebook x
You should see Haitian art! Wonderful!
NML-
I'm glad that you still enjoy it. Enjoy your weekend and kiss the Bambino for me.
GG-
My father has some Haitian art. I love it.
Rea leboha.
You always teach me something new
Fab
Rethabile-
Ke a leboha, ntate
Fab-
I'm glad that you can receive something from here, brother Fabrizio. How are things on your end?
I wonder where my roots will lead me? Interesting facts glad you were able to learn more about your family roots and enjoy the trip as well.
...passing through waving at you :)
You never cease to amaze me.
Peace and Love,
Alizé (LoversA.blogspot.com)
PS: April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). I am PASSIONATE about this issue and I’m determined to do my part to help educate as many people as possible. Please join me in spreading the word. Sexual violence must stop!
©hoklateRain-
*Waving back* Yes, researching my heritage is a life hobby.
Xavier-
You have my support brother. Thanks and good to see you.
Mr. Bess, love the attached poem and the sweet dedication to Haiti
There were also a lot of actual Haitians who came to the U.S. after the revolution there - including slaves who later got free. It's why Louisiana Creole sounds so much like Haitian Creole, and one of the (many) reasons why New Orleans is so Caribbean-like. I heard over the weekend that the population doubled
with the arrival of the Haitians!!!
OT for this post: great idea with the poetry posts for April.
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