The Journal of African American History - Sioux City, Iowa

I was honored and excited to write the foreword (which is attached) for an amazing (soon-to-be-released!) African American History book by my friend and colleague, Jim Tillman. Jim's book chronicles the rich and dynamic history of northwest Iowa's Sioux City and details the significant and historical contributions of the African Americans in this area...from its inception! To inquire about a copy of this book, don't hesitate to contact Jim Tillman at [email protected].

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"The Journal of African American History - Sioux City, Iowa" - Foreword

"Every dream begins with a dreamer." - Harriet Tubman.?

In May of 1804, something happened in this country to a young African American man that changed his life. He became a vital member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and was tasked to explore the lands west of the Mississippi River that comprised the recent? Louisiana Purchase acquisition.?

This man's two-year journey and ~ 8,000-mile journey was widely successful, as the duly named "Corps of Discovery" ventured into new uncharted areas of North America. The highly touted expedition concluded with numerous successes, including new geographic, cultural, and ecological information never before documented.?

York was a strong, intelligent, resourceful skilled frontiersman. He also possessed talents that propelled the success of the Lewis and Clark expedition in ways beyond their wildest dreams. The Lewis and Clark Expedition undoubtedly impacted U.S. history. It broadened the perceptions, imaginations, and ambitions of adventurous men and women across America and those who dared to explore…both young and old.?

It was chronicled that York was the most fascinating and compelling member of the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition, and his roots are attached to Northwest Iowa permanently. Many historical journals account that Lewis and Clark struggled to connect with the Native American tribes. The tribes were less interested in their speeches, declarations, and formality of exchanges of certificates and medals. However, the presence of the large man with black skin, who was called "Big Medicine," was the bridge no one else in the expedition could build to initiate relations and dialogue in a land where white men were the minority.?

?There is a quote I admire by Danielle LaPorte, which is, "Your life unfolds in proportion to your courage." This quote makes me think of the man whose name is York, and yes…he did not have a last name. However, York not having a last name did not limit his impact on U.S. history. In a time when a black man was legal property and value was linked to the inhumane system of chattel slavery, I cannot estimate the courage within York. And when we speak of African American History, we also mean American History because one cannot exist without the other.?

So what does York (a courageous black man born into the inhumane practice and repressive chains of slavery ) have to do with this wonderful historic book celebrating African American History in Sioux City, Iowa? My answer is "plenty!" York is not only part of American History but also the beginning of Sioux City's History! And to not begin with York when chronicling the rich African American History of this area would be more than a grave omission…as noting his contributions to this area is a required and essential acknowledgment.?

When I reflect on York departing the Missouri River to step onto the bank of Sioux City, Iowa boldly, History was being made with every step and engagement of this young black man. And those brave steps continue to be celebrated by this wonderfully illustrated book by Jim Tillman, a proud son of Sioux City. So I am proud of York, and I am also proud of Jim for writing this book chronicling the African American History of Sioux City, Iowa.?

This area's rich and dynamic History is extensive, fueled by a proud, close-knitted, and deeply rooted African American community whose activities and contribution legacy continue. If York were to step on the banks of the Missouri river today, he would marvel with pride to hear how others like him were still exploring, discovering, and employing 'Big Medicine" for generations to come. York would also be proud that History is still being made, as Morningside University named Dr. Albert Mosley the institution's first African American president in 2022, and where I also proudly serve on the board of directors! Finally, York would also beam with pride to know this book was being written, read, and shared about a place he never dreamed he would set foot upon, as his presence reverberates and resonates to this day.?

Jim's book takes you into many areas, from sports, music, education, the community churches, leaders, and people who are part of Sioux City's History. However, Sioux City's diverse History and passionate vigorous people and their stories are the difference makers, as I enjoyed how he has brought them back to life artfully! In addition, I appreciate how the book dives into the diversity of African American generational grit and legacy of courageousness that sparked their journeys and timeless contributions in many areas of Sioux City's History. The magic of this historical chronicle makes it a must-read book for those connected to this area.?

Tillman mentions many within this book, and those not mentioned are of no slight at all. It is just the volume of people who were raised & live here, and those who have made it their home would require more than one book to include them all. However, their spirit is captured by the essence of memories, recollections, and activities of Sioux City's History this book explores!

But I would like to mention someone from Sioux City whom I have always admired and respected. Her name is Lillian J Fletcher (1930 - 2007), and may she rest in heaven.?

Lillian was born Oct. 15, 1930, in Sioux City, the daughter of Raymond and Winifred C. (Hall) Winfrey. She graduated from Central High School and later from the National Business Training College. Lillian married Ernest R. Fletcher in May 1953 in Sioux City and worked for the Department of Human Services for 23 years, retiring in 1994. She was the proud mother of five children and many grandchildren.?

I mention her because she epitomizes this area's deep and immeasurable qualities of the people connected to Sioux City and why they remain connected!?

I remember her being one of the best scrabble players ever, her worldly knowledge beyond where she resided, and her kindness and grace of acceptance to someone who was not from the area…always made him feel at home. So, yes, I have good memories of Sioux City and its people. And for that, I am grateful.?

And for those who will read this book and take in the essence of its rich and vast History, I hope this book inspires, sparks, and fills you with good memories of the good and passionate folks of this area you have had the pleasure of knowing. This book will make you thankful for that. But, more importantly, I am thankful for the courage of a man called York, who stepped and placed his foot onto the banks of Sioux City to not just make History for an African American…but to begin it!.

I wish you good reading and all the best as you enjoy this fantastic read.