English Department Students Present for Cache Valley Historical Society

On Wednesday, January 15, three English Department students, Eden Marroquín, Ella Stott, and Yasamin Osqueezadeh were invited to lecture at the Cache Valley Historical Society meeting alongside faculty member Professor Christine Cooper-Rompato. Their presentation, entitled “Utah in the Green Book and other African American travel books,” reviewed the history of African American travel guides from the 1930s-1960s as seen in Utah.  

The Cache Valley Historical Society was formed in 1951 with the intent of publishing Cache Valley’s general history. They began partnering with the USU library two years later to preserve historical documents. From the beginning, there have been monthly lectures from members in the community.

Christine reflects on the experience: “It’s a delight to present for community members of the Cache Valley Historical Society. The audience members are very engaged and enthusiastic listeners and participants, and they have a wealth of knowledge about local, statewide, and national history. Presenters learn a lot from the audience’s questions and comments.”

Christine opened the presentation with slides on segregation in Utah and the travel guides for African Americans that were born out of the automobile becoming more widespread and the need for the Black population to have safe places to stay, eat, and shop while traveling. Eden presented on hotels, motels, and guest houses seen in the guide, including The Palace Hotel, which stood where Bluebird Candy Factory on Center Street is today.

Next, Ella discussed businesses in Ogden that were Black-owned or Black-friendly. On the experience, she says, “I thoroughly enjoyed presenting to a group of people just as interested in this history as we are. We had so many great questions asked and tips on what other businesses, hotels, or people we should research next. The experience reinvigorated my excitement for the project as we continue researching this understudied, important piece of Utah history.”

Finally, Yasamin presented on David H. Oliver, one of the few people listed in one of the travel guides. He was a Black attorney, author, and activist, dedicated to being the voice for marginalized people. “The conference was a great experience. There is a very small Black community in Logan, so not a lot of research and events focus on them,” Yasamin comments. “I was grateful to have the opportunity to spread my research on Black Utah history. It’s important — no matter your age or race — to learn about the experiences of those around you. The conference was a great opportunity to give and gain information. I’m thankful for all those who took the time to listen and share their knowledge.” 

The students and the project are receiving funding from the English Department, The Center for Intersectional Gender Studies and Research, and an Undergraduate Research and Creative Opportunities (URCO) grant.