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African American Diaspora

A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots. MARCUS GARVEY

The Orange County African American Historical Society (OCAAHS) was founded to explore African American contributions to the cultural and historical heritage of Orange County, Virginia.

 

We also seek to enhance and promote awareness of the accomplishments and contributions of people of African descent as organic and essential components of our community, and of our nation, at large.

 

Toward those ends, we endeavor to identify, research and preserve African American legacies, lore, and historical sites.

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Allan Jackson

Latest News & Updates from OCAAHS

Click on our latest updates and news below. View all, click here.

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Please consider us on Giving Tuesday, December 3rd

We would love your help in furthering our mission to illuminate the rich and deep history of the accomplishments and contributions of Orange County, Virginia, African Americans.

 

We identify, research, and preserve African American legacies, lore, and historical sites.

 

We also host three major annual events: the OC African American County Heritage & Membership Meeting in February, Juneteenth on June 19, and the OCAAHS Eclipse Awards Dinner in October.  

Donate Here and thank you!

The  2024 ECLIPSE AWARDS BANQUET

SATURDAY OCTOBER 19th

Celebrate the Eclipse Awards Class of 2024 
A Physician/Musician, a Nurse, a Radio Disc Jockey, a Church volunteer and historian,

an Advocate for our public schools, a Chef, and a Winemaker


Seidah Armstrong 
Dr. Dena Jennings 
Wendy Rivas 
Denise Cooper Thompson 
Robert Wade/aka JD Slade 
Alyssa Waller 
Theresa Williams

 

Thank you to Our Sponsors!

Platinum Sponsors

Orange County Board of Supervisors

ED AND ADA HARVEY

Gold Sponsors
2024 OCAAHS Eclipse Awardee Theresa Collins Williams
09:27
Orange County African American Historical Society

2024 OCAAHS Eclipse Awardee Theresa Collins Williams

Theresa Collins Williams embodies the spirit of service and compassion. She also places great importance on preserving and celebrating African American cultural heritage. For 20 years, she has been chair of Blue Run Baptist Church’s Black History Month Program, an educational and celebratory event highlighting the history and talents of church members and guests. She brings history to life, ensuring the younger generation understands and appreciates their roots. At Blue Run Baptist, Theresa is also a deaconess, treasurer, and choir member. She always makes time for her family, sharing Sunday dinners filled with laughter and stories from the past. Her home is a testament to her love for history, adorned with photographs and memorabilia that tell the rich story of her life and the lives she has touched. She often says that her greatest achievement is the love and respect she receives from her community, which she holds dear to her heart. After graduating from George Washington Carver Regional High School, Theresa worked for Marion duPont Scott at Montpelier, conveniently located next door to Jacksontown, her lifelong community. From Montpelier, she joined American Woodmark where she worked for 32 years before retiring. Theresa remains hopeful for the future, believing in the power of kindness and dedication to making the world a better place. Her life is a testament to the difference one individual can make, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps and continue the legacy of service and compassion.
2024 OCAAHS Eclipse Awardee Alyssa Waller
08:36
Orange County African American Historical Society

2024 OCAAHS Eclipse Awardee Alyssa Waller

Alyssa Waller is a passionate, hard-working woman who puts passion and care for others into everything she does. As a mother of two sons, she believes the history of African Americans needs to be passed onto future generations and that African American history is inadequately addressed in our educational system. Black History Month prompts obligatory Black History programs, but the significance of Black History merits deeper inclusion in our curriculum, and rectifying historical inaccuracies is paramount. To this end, Alyssa has taken the initiative to press this matter with the Orange County School Board. By enlightening an adult audience, she hopes a ripple effect will foster dialogue about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Alyssa is a board member of the Orange County Academic Scholar Institute (ASI), dedicated to helping young men of color graduate from high school and pursue college matriculation and successful careers. She has also served on the Minority Advisory Board and the Minority Task Force for Orange County Public Schools. She is also a member of the Orange County Branch of the NAACP, serving on the youth committee. Alyssa was twice honored with the OCPS “Above and Beyond” award. Former Superintendent Brenda Tanner called her the “unofficial school mom of OC.” In 2022, she co-hosted the first Multicultural Festival in Orange County. Within the UVA community, Alyssa is part of the Black Faculty and Staff Employee Resource Group, Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI), and DEI Committee for the Pediatrics Department.
2024 OCAAHS Eclipse Awardee Robert Wade “JD Slade”
07:45
Orange County African American Historical Society

2024 OCAAHS Eclipse Awardee Robert Wade “JD Slade”

Robert “JD Slade” Wade has served over 50 years as an Orange County radio disc jockey and host on WJMA. At just sixteen, Bob entered the WJMA radio station, expressing his desire to become a disc jockey. Bob recalls that the preparation was far from glamorous. He spent months reading copy into a microphone to work on pronunciation. After persistent effort, Bob finally got his chance to go on air. He has since hosted over 10,000 morning shows across the United States, working at WTON in Staunton, as a music director at Culpeper’s WCVA, and at WFIC in Philadelphia for eight years before returning to Orange as J. D. Slade. Bob has become a beloved figure in the community, known for his distinctive voice, engaging on-air presence, and genuine connection with listeners. He has seen many changes in the industry, from the advent of digital streaming to the consolidation of radio networks. Yet, he remains a steadfast advocate for local content, ensuring that the voices and stories of Orange County are heard, fostering a sense of community and belonging. His show was more than just a source of information; it was a daily ritual for many, starting their day on a positive note. Bob credits his success to the support of his family, friends, and loyal listeners. He is excited to continue his journey in radio, embracing new technologies while staying true to the heart of what makes his show special: the people.
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