LETTERS: LOUISE DUNCAN: WILLING TO SHARE

To the editor:

It would be reasonable for Louise Duncan of Cape Girardeau, an African American of her generation, to be resentful at the stereotypical white establishment in which she was born and raised.

In 1997, we -- two white historical researchers -- chose to take on the restoration and documentation of a small African American cemetery in a local township. Our usual means of acquiring information failed because of a lack of African American documents available.

In a casual conversation, Mrs. Duncan was recommended as the best source of oral information on this cemetery and the local African American community. Upon contact, when embraced us in numerous interviews, sharing the history of the Shady Grove community, its church, school and the identities of the multiple forgotten persons buried in its neglected grounds.

This led to the publication of "Darkwoods and Periwinkle: A Glance Back at Shady Grove," the first extensive African American necrology in Cape Girardeau County.

Despite age, physical limitations and being homebound, Mrs. Duncan has maintained the oral history and traditions of African Americans in this and surrounding counties. Without her, "Darkwoods and Periwinkle" could never have been written.

By her openness and willingness to share her culture with us, she has helped to break down racial barriers frequently seen in small communities throughout the country. We have come to cherish Mrs. Duncan, not only as an informational source, but as an intimate and spiritual friends.

DIANA STEELE-BRYANT

SHARON K. SANDERS

Cape Girardeau