African-American Arts and Culture in the EHS Community
During the early 20th century, segregation still plagued the South and its education system, however, it was difficult to divide culture, art, and music. Culture cannot be segregated. Despite being an all-white school, Episcopal often welcomed Black speakers and performers prior to the arrival of Black students in 1968. Contrary to the Confederate and Lost Cause sentiments that were present at Episcopal during the 1950s and 60s, students at Episcopal valued the music and stories shared by the African-American community.
Distinguished Black Figures & Their Influence on Episcopal
Duke Ellington
Hailing from D.C., Duke Ellington was a prominent swing jazz musician. Incorporating roots of Black culture and classical European music, Ellington was popular among Black and White audiences. In the spring of 1954, Ellington was invited to perform for the Finals dance. Ellington was highly respected among the Episcopal student body, for they deemed him “a genius of modern American music." Students at Episcopal demonstrate the large influence of Black music in the white community. Observing the excitement throughout the campus, there is a clear progression in the mindset of students at Episcopal and a deeper connection to the African-American community through music.
Otis Redding
After Otis Redding died in plane crash in December 1967, his death deeply impacted the United States, especially the South. Singer of “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay” and “Try A Little Tenderness,” Redding’s rich voice was a large influence on Southern soul and R&B. Otis Redding’s soulful melodies clearly influenced students at EHS since the Daemon featured a drawing of Redding. It is a meticulous, ink pen drawing of Redding, which could be interpreted as an ode of respect or tribute to Redding for his contribution to music. Redding, along with Ellington, is a clear example of how Black artists, along with their music, were treasured by Episcopal students.
Keith Newell
In 1956, Mrs. Keith Newell was invited to speak at Episcopal about Mau-Mau terrorism that tormented Kenya. “Unanimously applauded” by the student body, it is evident that Mrs. Newell’s speech resonated and piqued the interest of various students. Ranging from “humorous to shocking,” Newell is complimented for her “ready wit.” Deeply impacted by her speech, students overlooked Newell’s race and recognized her for her excellent public speaking skills and overall content.
Although these articles have one author, meaning there’s only one perspective being told, Chronicle articles often represented a significant portion of the student body’s opinion. During the 1950s and 60s, there is a definitive presence of respect and admiration for black intellectuals and artists. White appreciation of Black culture was significant at Episcopal; however, it is important to note that students were more open to Black culture rather than actual attendance of Black students—a common mindset for the students at Episcopal prior to integration. Despite this, students put their racial prejudices aside and appreciated the preeminence and skill of the Black figures that came to Episcopal. Black artists and speakers heavily influenced racial and social dynamics at Episcopal prior to the integration of Black students in 1968.