The INCREDIBLE STORY of this HEADSTONE! Eldren Bailey

Join us on this fascinating episode of Adventures into History as Dan, Joy, and I explore the St. John Cemetery in Waverly Hall, Georgia. This African American cemetery, originally a burial ground for enslaved people on the Boddie Plantation, holds a wealth of historical significance and unique artistry. In this video, we delve into the distinct characteristics of historic African American headstones, with a special focus on those created by the talented artist Eldren Bailey. As we walk through the cemetery, we’ll examine the differences in headstone styles and craftsmanship, shedding light on the cultural and historical contexts that shaped these memorials. Eldren Mathew Bailey, born on July 17, 1903, in Flovilla, Georgia, was a remarkable artist whose work has left a lasting impact on the communities he served. After moving to Atlanta at a young age, Bailey worked on the railroad before transitioning to a career as a plasterer. He eventually settled in the Pittsburgh neighborhood of Atlant