Shiny Shoes
By Claudie Benjamin Shoe stores, shoe repair shops, and shoe shine boys are part of the urban lore of the Great Depression and the decades following. Shoes are a necessity of daily living and walking on pavement. A serious shine on one’s shoes (unless...
Birds, Cages, and Care
By Claudie Benjamin A recent online chat reads: “My house feels so empty and boring without Charlie and Lilly! I am going overseas to a family wedding and had to take them to the vets for boarding yesterday. I know they will be well...
Hero in Troubled Times
By Claudie Benjamin Remarkable? Yes. Sadie Stewart Hobday was a public health pioneer who took the goal of doing good to heart. From what is known about her life, this Black woman from the South was undeterred by race-related barriers and ever-present...