Oxmoor Farm, Lousiville Kentucky. Photo: oxmoorfarm.org.
Since coming home from Kentucky last week, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with several academics who have put many hours into researching this controversial and hidden topic.
They’ve written theses on the topic based on their research but so far—as often happens with academic writing—not much has been published in the form of books. Some of their research concerns Oxmoor, the former plantation that now sits behind a huge shopping Center east of Louisville, and I remember as a child having an uncomfortable feeling about this beautiful house. I trust my childhood impression, often dulled or dismissed in adulthood by worldly concerns: what will people think, etc.?
But I have two vital concerns about tackling this subject: in the current political atmosphere, can a white writer take on a topic of such great importance to African Americans, as I know from recent experiences are understandably outraged by writing that seems primarily instigated by white guilt? And at this point in my career, do I have the courage? This last question is especially important to me now as I am soon to receive the Rainmakers award for my contributions to our Santa Fe farmers market and will be asked by the interviewer about the genesis of my courage.
[This topic received over 75% of the vote in my follow-up poll on ideas for my next book. That poll is available, and my initial poll is also still available.]
Dear Sallie,
I have been researching this topic on and for the last two years. In central Kentucky, it was definitely present. It is also, as you write, a very sensitive subject to explore. Best wishes with this work. My God grant you courage and wisdom.
Sallie – my life experiences growing up and experiences personally and professionally as an adult suggest not worrying about what other people think about your intentions in this space. You’re a proven researcher and author. However, I’ve been rightly accused of being naive on many occasions.