Melanie, thanks so much for posting on this article. When I first found reference to your grandfather, I had trouble tracing him outside the DC area. When I finally found that he had worked in Louisville, I was so happy. The archivist there said that no one had ever asked for his file…what an exciting moment that was for me. Your grandfather was an amazing man who overcame whatever issues were placed in his way. I wish I had known your grandparents as they must have been very special people. Thank you so much for posting, and I’m so glad I gave you an occasion to think back to family time spent with them.
All best,
Kate

Thank you for posting. When I first found the story, no one had opened the file of the Kentucky newspaper library in a very long time, so when the fellow sent me copies of the article I was very grateful and knew I had come upon something important. About 2 years after that, the White House Correspondents Association set up this scholarship and family members were involved, so that’s great.

Last year I came upon Alice Dunnigan, the first Black woman to cover a president, so you might like to read about her, too. The part that affected me the most about her story was that she was not paid well enough to have “middle class” clothing to wear for her assignments. There is nothing easy about what these people have done. Thank you for reading, and here’s Alice’s story: https://americacomesalive.com/alice-dunnigan-first-black-woman-reporter-to-cover-white-house/

Thank you so much for posting. He was an important man. I’m so glad to hear from you!