The Wakulla Christian Coalition held their African American Heritage Celebration in commemoration of Black History Month this past Saturday, February 18, at Hudson Park in Crawfordville.  Although the morning began shrouded in fog, the sun came out in full force for the start of the parade down Highway 319, and continued throughout the day.

The parade was packed with participants, including the Wakulla High School Marching Band, the Buffalo Soldiers motorcyclists, and many local businesses, civic and non-profit organizations.  Children scrambled for candy as the parade made its way to Hudson Park.  Tom Roscoe Triplett, 101 years old, served as the Parade Grand Marshall.

Macedonia Church Youth Department		Mount Trial Primitive Baptist Church

Once in the park, guests of the celebration were treated to wonderful entertainment, food, merchandise vendors and educational booths.  It was also a chance for friends and neighbors to enjoy the mild weather, visiting and socializing under the trees.


The official program began with the Retiring of the Flag by the Veteran's of Foreign Wars, followed by the singing of the National Anthem by all in attendance.  Glen Bostic then performed the Black National Anthem.

Gwen Williams		Malenie H. Bruce		Comm. Henry Vause

After the invocation, President Jennie V. Jones welcomed everyone to the celebration.  The Ra'Kad Mimes from Thessalonia Baptist Church then performed  a praise dance for the crowd.  The program continued with a sketch by Priscilla Hawkins, readings by Simone Lowery and Jordan Johnson, more music from Glen Bostic, a praise dance by Ruby Harris, and "I Have a Dream" read by Ashlie Rabess.  Several local politicians spoke, including Property Appraiser Anne Ahrendt, and County Commissioners Ed Brimner, Henry Vause, and Howard Kessler.  (Please click here to see a copy of the speech given by Commissioner Howard Kessler.)

J. J. Shingles spoke about the scholarships given by the Wakulla Christian Coalition to two Wakulla County high school seniors.  Money raised at the day's event will go to pay for the scholarships which will be given out at the end of the 2005-2006 school year.

Malenie H. Bruce and Bossie Hawkins, event organizers, thanked all who came out to the celebration and all those who helped make it possible.


There were several food vendors at the celebration, as well as vendors selling clothing, commemorative t-shirts, and jewelry.  There were informational booths sponsored by the Republican Party, 4-H, the Wakulla County Voter's Registration Office, the University of Florida IFAS Extension, and many others.  The biggest hit with the young set was the bubble blowing and duck pond booth.

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The Wakulla Christian Coalition would like to thank the following businesses and organizations for sponsoring the African American Heritage Celebration:

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