Unearthing Legacies: South County Black History Research and Preservation Initiative

Flora Lu
Environmental Studies
UC Santa Cruz

The South County Black History Research and Preservation Initiative seeks to uncover, document, and preserve the untold histories of Black pioneers and communities in Santa Cruz County, with a particular focus on the often-overlooked South County region. This initiative identifies burial sites, compiles historical data, and creates accessible narratives that contribute to a fuller understanding of the Black experience in the region. The project expands the London Nelson Legacy Initiative (LNLI), broadening its scope to include Watsonville and neighboring areas. In partnership with the University of California system, local historians, and community members, this project involves a multidisciplinary team to conduct archival research, oral history collection, and community engagement. The findings will culminate in the development of the High John Bey Archives—a digital repository that ensures these stories are preserved and accessible to the public. Our efforts align with the Mellon Foundation’s “Humanities in Place” theme by emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural landmarks, such as cemeteries and burial sites, as spaces of memory and historical significance. By bridging the gap between historical research and public engagement, the initiative honors Black pioneers while fostering a deeper understanding of their contributions to the region’s cultural and social fabric.