Footprints on the Rough Side of the Mountain: An African-american Niche in the History of a Southern Textile City

Footprints on the Rough Side of the Mountain: An African-american Niche in the History of a Southern Textile City by Hand, Oscar Depriest Sr.. Hardcover edition. ISBN: 9780965615501.

Footprints on the Rough Side of the Mountain could have taken place anywhere in the world. But this true-life account takes place in a small textile city of Belmont, North Carolina. The essential population of African-Americans in Belmont, North Carolina played a major role in establishing this thriving area. Racism and disparity were part of the early settlers daily lives. The authors of this captivating tale, Hand and Sykes were able to capture the true essence of that struggle. Struggling to survive, struggling to live, they still managed to forge ahead while coming to grips with race and poverty. This book takes the reader back in time, nearly a hundred years. One account after another weaved together eloquently in this historical time line.The burning desire to preserve the legacy of African-Americans within this small textile city came about when preparations were being made for the citys Centennial celebration. It was evident that history would be lost forever if the true facts in building this city were not written. There were no faces or names - just invisible blacks whose sweat, blood and tears created the wealth of the town. These individuals can not be forgotten and thanks to "Footprints on the Rough Side of the Mountain" they never will.The authors hope this is the first of many historical studies that will inspire the younger generation to continue to preserve our history as we move into the 21st Century.