Textbook Features Photo by James Cummings
The UPS truck pulled up in front of the house, and I merrily opened the door, thinking that perhaps my new sneakers had arrived, although I would have been surprised at 2nd day delivery. Instead, the truck driver handed me a heavy package from Bob Jones University Press.
Hurriedly, but carefully, I opened the package, only to find that it contained a copy of The American Republic, Third Edition, that features a photo of the Harriet Wilson statue in our home state of New Hampshire. (See page 259). This 606 page textbook is a remarkable compilation of facts and photos about American History that have been gathered together by Rachel C. Larson, Ph.D.
On days like this, I so proud of Jim and all of his photography work, especially as they complement my writings, on the web, and in print, making them come alive! His photos have been featured in a number of other books, but the thrill does not go away.
The other book published this summer that utilized one of Jim’s photos is called, Dolls Remembered, by Madonna Dries Christensen, for which I contributed a story. (Proceeds from that book go to a program for Down’s Syndrome disabled youngsters, in Virginia.)
This most recently published photo depicts a statue that is a tribute to a poor indentured slave whose book, Our Nig, is considered to be the first African-American novel written by a woman. The book contains scenes that are believed to represent true experiences of the author, a mulatto woman. A Boston sculptor created the statue, based on Harriet Wilson’s descriptions of herself. No photos of her are known to exist.
I think that I am in love with this new History textbook, dated 2010! It is wonderful!
Jim’s photo honors the struggle of one of our Black sisters who served as an indentured servant and underwent many abuses in the household in which she found herself. Read more about Harriet Wilson on our main website.
Patricia Cummings
