The Impact of Historical Storytelling on Future Generations
Dr Walter B. Curry Jr discusses his passion for uncovering untold African American histories, the challenges of research, and the significance of his latest biography on South Carolina’s pioneering physician, Dr Matilda Evans.
Dr. Walter B. Curry, Jr. stands as a powerful voice in the rich tapestry of historical and genealogical literature, weaving compelling narratives that resonate deeply with readers and scholars alike. A native of Orangeburg, South Carolina, Dr. Curry has made it his life’s mission to shine a light on the often-overlooked chapters of African American history through the lens of family heritage and community. His literary contributions are nothing short of remarkable, with each work serving as both a deeply personal testament and an invaluable historical record.
As the founder of Renaissance Publications, LLC, Dr. Curry has set a high bar in the literary arts, producing award-winning books such as “The Thompson Family: Untold Stories from the Past (1830-1960)” and “The Awakening: The Seawright-Ellison Family Saga, Vol. 1, A Narrative History.” These works delve into stories of resilience, triumph, and transformation, tracing the lives of his ancestors through pivotal moments in American history, from slavery to Reconstruction and beyond. His most recent achievement, “South Carolina Matilda Evans: A Medical Pioneer,” further underscores his unparalleled ability to bring historical figures to life. By chronicling the legacy of Dr. Matilda Evans—the trailblazing physician who became the first African American woman licensed to practise medicine in South Carolina—he has once again illuminated a path for future generations to follow.
Dr. Curry’s dedication extends beyond the written word. As the Author-In-Residence at the Aiken Center for the Arts, he transforms historical narratives into engaging educational experiences, fostering a love for storytelling among young minds. Whether conducting local workshops, presenting at conferences, or guiding students through history using innovative techniques, he exemplifies a passion for learning and community enrichment. It is no surprise that his work has earned him countless accolades, cementing his reputation as a visionary scholar, storyteller, and educator.
Reader’s House magazine is proud to present an exclusive interview with this extraordinary author. In the conversation that follows, Dr. Curry not only shares insights into the intricate process of unearthing hidden histories but also offers invaluable guidance to aspiring writers. His journey is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling, and it is a privilege to showcase his voice within these pages.
What inspired you to write about the Seawright-Ellison family and their journey through such pivotal moments in American history?
The motivation behind writing about the Seawright-Ellison family stems from a desire to illuminate the shared history of two families linked by their common ancestor, Martha Kitchings Seawright Ellison, who was born into slavery in 1849 in Aiken County, South Carolina. This narrative chronicles the family’s journey through significant historical events, including Martha’s experiences during slavery, the Civil War, and the Reconstruction Era, as well as their life in Aiken County and beyond. Additionally, I aimed to preserve the family legacy by bringing to light the stories of relatives who have been overlooked over time, highlighting their contributions to African American history in Aiken County and beyond.
“I aimed to illuminate our shared history and preserve the family legacy by highlighting overlooked contributions to African American history.” – Walter B. Curry, Jr
Can you share some insights into your research process for uncovering the untold stories of the Thompson family?
The research process I employed to uncover the untold stories of the Thompson family involved a blend of oral and written narratives. Oral narratives were gathered through interviews and informal discussions with both relatives and acquaintances who had recollections of the individuals and events associated with the Thompson family. In addition, written narratives were sourced from newspaper articles, property deeds, photographs, and other primary documents.
What challenges did you face while compiling historical narratives, and how did you overcome them?
When putting together stories from the past, I encountered several difficulties that made the process quite challenging. One major issue was finding reliable sources of information, as some historical accounts can be biased or incomplete. To tackle this, I made sure to cross-check facts from multiple sources, like books, articles, and interviews with experts. Another challenge was organizing the information in a way that made sense and flowed well for the reader. I overcame this by creating outlines and using timelines to help me visualize the sequence of events. Additionally, I sometimes struggled with making the narratives engaging and relatable to my audience. To fix this, I focused on including interesting details and personal stories that would capture the reader’s attention and make the history feel alive.
How do you think Dr. Matilda Evans’ contributions to healthcare have influenced modern medical practices in South Carolina?
Dr. Matilda Evans made a significant impact by offering medical care to people who couldn’t pay for high-quality healthcare. Her dedication to helping those in need is truly remarkable, as she worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, had access to the medical services they required. Through her efforts, she not only improved the health of many individuals but also inspired others to think about the importance of providing care to underserved communities. Dr. Evans’ legacy continues to remind us of the vital role that compassion and commitment play in the field of medicine.
As an Author-In-Residence at the Aiken Center for the Arts, how do you engage students with historical storytelling?
As an Author-In-Residence at the Aiken Center for the Arts, I find creative ways to connect with students through the art of historical storytelling. I believe that history comes alive when we share it in an engaging manner, so I often use interactive activities, like role-playing or group discussions, to help students immerse themselves in the stories of the past. By encouraging them to think critically about historical events and the people involved, I aim to spark their imagination and make them feel like they are part of the narrative. This approach not only makes learning fun but also helps students understand the importance of history in shaping our world today.
What advice would you give to aspiring authors interested in writing historical and genealogical narratives?
If you want to write historical and genealogical stories, my best advice is to start by doing a lot of research. Look into the time periods and events you want to write about, and try to find interesting facts that can make your story come alive. It’s also really helpful to talk to family members or look through old documents to gather personal stories that can add depth to your writing. Don’t forget to pay attention to the details, like the way people dressed or the kinds of food they ate, because these little things can make your narrative feel more authentic. Lastly, keep writing and revising your work, because practice is key to becoming a better author.
