Join us for a "At Your Service" by Beatriz Roman, on Wednesday, July 16th at 7:00 PM at the Warren County Historical Society headquarters at 50 Gurney Ln in Queensbury.
"At Your Service" is an introduction to the McFerson family and their contributions to the African-American traveler and worker in our communities, then includes information on the services J1's perform and their requirements to travel here to work and travel.
Beatriz Roman is the author of "The Shoulder Rider: A Storyteller's Tale" about famed local librarian and storyteller Shirley McFerson, also known as “Sweet Mama String Bean.” McFerson, was born in 1934 and died in 2005, originally living in Glens Falls with her parents, Samuel and Dorothy. The family home on Sanford Street was listed in “The Green Book,” a guide to food and hotel accommodations for Blacks during the mid-20th century to assist them in finding safe dining and lodging during racial and civil discrimination in America. Shirley’s parents went on to own and operate The Woodbine Cottages and Restaurant in Lake George, an establishment that welcomed people of color. As an adult, she was a well-known librarian at the Caldwell Library in Lake George and a popular storyteller. Roman’s book weaves a beautiful story about how Shirley stood on the shoulders of her parents and ancestors in her life and career – and how this symbol of “the shoulder rider” is enduring in our society and culture.
Author Beatriz Roman was born and raised in New York City. She spent her career as a high school English teacher and is now retired and lives in Queensbury. Human and equal rights have always been her passion.
"The Shoulder Rider" is available at the Warren County Historical Society for $10, plus tax.
Publication of this book was funded by the Touba Family Foundation, Inc.
Also check out other Arts events in Queensbury, Literary Art events in Queensbury.
