Franklin and Armfield

America’s cruelest, richest slave traders: Why does no one know their names?: Daily Comet – Sept. 15

The two most ruthless domestic slave traders in America had a secret language for their business. Slave trading was a “game.” The men, Isaac Franklin and John Armfield, were daring “pirates” or “one-eyed men,” a euphemism for their penises. The women they bought and sold were “fancy maids,” a term signifying youth, beauty and potential for sexual exploitation – by buyers or the traders themselves. Rapes happened often. Their success was immense: The duo amassed a fortune worth several billions in today’s dollars and retired as two of the nation’s wealthiest men, according to Joshua Rothman, a professor of history at The University of Alabama who is writing a book on Franklin and Armfield.
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Mural Painting

Volunteers sought for public mural painting in Holt, Alberta: Tuscaloosa News – Sept. 18

Volunteers are needed to help with a public mural project designed to beautify areas in Holt and Alberta. Artists, students, parents and volunteers will paint murals from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday at the Jaycees Fairground in Alberta and from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Sept. 26 at the water tower in Holt. Volunteers must register by calling the United Way of West Alabama at 205-345-6640 or emailing cheryl@uwwa.org. Guest artists Ruth O’Connor of the O’Connor Art Studios, Charlotte Wegrzynowski of The University of Alabama Department of Art and Art History, and Matt Daugherty, an art instructor at Holt High School, will lead the effort to paint the murals.

Moundville Native American Festival

Volunteers needed for Moundville Native American Festival: Tuscaloosa News – Sept. 18

Volunteers are needed for the 31st annual Moundville Native American Festival. The festival, which celebrates Native American culture through performers, vendors, demonstrators, living history teachers and more, will be held Oct. 9-12 at Moundville Archaeological Park. Volunteers can work in the gift shop, the children’s area, the demonstrations area and in parking control. Volunteers are also needed to monitor the exhibits and provide information to guests.

Million Dollar Band

Univ. of Alabama’s Million Dollar Band to march in 2020 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: NBC (Mobile) – Sept. 21

The University of Alabama’s Million Dollar Band has been selected to play in next year’s 94th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. The University made the announcement in a tweet today. This will be the band’s first time appearing in the parade. The band was picked from more than 100 applicants and will be one of nine to participate in the parade on Nov. 26, 2020.
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