The City of Gallatin will soon install its annual Black History Month avenue banners, marking the city’s forth year recognizing African American individuals, institutions and places that have made significant contributions to the community.
City crews will begin hanging the banners along Gallatin’s downtown streets one to two weeks ahead of February, allowing residents and visitors to engage with Gallatin’s Black history before the start of Black History Month.
This year’s banners honor 17 individuals and stories, including the Rev. R.A. Stewart, Principal of Union High School, the only high school for Black students in Sumner County, and Christopher Wright, the first African American to graduate from Harvard University. Other honorees include Andrew Cornelius Turner and Bishop Isaac Williams, whose leadership helped shape the city’s educational and spiritual life.
One banner highlights the history of First Baptist Church of Gallatin, which was constructed using bricks salvaged from the Tennessee State Prison and transported by rail from Nashville. Church members cleaned the bricks at night to maintain a steady supply, knowing the white bricklayers hired for construction were paid a full day’s wage even if work stopped due to shortages.
“These banners tell important stories of perseverance, leadership and community,” said Velma Brinkley, African American historian. “They recognize the efforts of Black residents who helped build Gallatin, often under difficult circumstances, and ensure those stories are visible and remembered.”
Mayor Paige Brown said the program reflects the city’s commitment to honoring its full history.
“Gallatin is a stronger city because of the contributions of those we honor through these banners,” Brown said. “Displaying them throughout our community invites residents and visitors alike to learn, reflect and better understand the history that continues to shape who we are today.”
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