Memories of Growing Up in Mississippi

👨‍🌾Parker shares his nostalgic memories of growing up in rural Mississippi, highlighting the beauty of the land and the importance of farming.

📚He mentions the limited access to education and how the cotton-picking season affected schooling, emphasizing the determination of people to finish their studies despite the challenges.

🏡Parker describes his family, including his no-nonsense grandfather, easygoing grandmother, and beloved mother who was a school teacher.

⚠️He acknowledges the racial tensions and fears associated with his visit to Mississippi, as it was a time when African Americans had limited rights and lacked legal protection.

🌊Parker recalls the joy of swimming with friends and the simple pleasures they enjoyed during their time in Mississippi.

What was the historical marker at the Bryant store unveiling?

—The historical marker commemorated the events surrounding the brutal murder of Emmett Till in 1955. It serves as a reminder of the struggles and racial injustices faced during that time.

What were some of the challenges faced in rural Mississippi during Parker's childhood?

—Some of the challenges included limited access to education, the difficult conditions of cotton field work, and the lack of legal protection for African Americans against racial violence and discrimination.

How often did Parker travel to Mississippi in recent years?

—Parker mentioned that he visits Mississippi about twice a year or sometimes more, as he still has a deep connection to the place he considers home.

What did Parker remember about his grandparents?

—Parker describes his grandfather as a no-nonsense man who carried himself with dignity and earned the respect of others. His grandmother was easygoing and loved by everyone. Parker's mother was a lovable lady who believed in everything he said.

What were some of the fun activities Parker and his friends enjoyed in Mississippi?

—Parker and his friends had a lot of fun swimming, telling jokes, and enjoying the countryside. They would also pick cotton together, although Parker mentioned that it became challenging due to the intense heat.

00:01Reverend Wheeler Parker Jr shares his memories of growing up in Mississippi and the recent unveiling of a historical marker at the Bryant store.

08:35He recounts his time picking cotton and the importance of eating well to endure the demanding work.

09:45Parker describes the landscape, the small town of Money, and the farming community where he lived.

10:39He fondly reminisces about his grandfather, grandmother, and mother, highlighting their personalities and the love they shared.

11:12Parker acknowledges the racial tensions and fears associated with his visit to Mississippi, knowing the risks involved for African Americans at that time.

11:54He shares stories of the fun they had swimming, telling jokes, and enjoying life in rural Mississippi.