The Tarrant County Black Historical & Genealogical Society has been uncovering and preserving the history of Black Tarrant County since 1977. Our presentation will showcase the collections and stories of an underrepresented community that would have stayed hidden if not for the efforts of people like our founder, Mrs. Lenora Rolla.
Mrs. Rolla's collection exemplifies years of efforts and dedication to preserving Black history and establishing the TCBHGS. Mrs. Rolla preserved collections on the first Freedom Settlements in Tarrant County, The Garden of Eden, and Mosier Valley. The history of Black business leaders, William Madison McDonald, Tarrant County's(Texas') first black millionaire, Dr. Riley Ransom Sr., Tarrant County's first African American surgeon who owned and operated the only hospitals to serve the community. These stories only touch the surface of the extraordinary people and histories we share.
