Tag Archives: Alice French

Menokin African American Advisory Workgroup

In 2016, the Menokin Foundation  spearheaded the formation of the African American Advisory Work Group (AAAWG). The primary goals of the AAAWG are to assist the Menokin Foundation in:

  • telling the story of African Americans at Menokin to inspire a fuller understanding of and appreciation for their central role in Menokin’s story.
  • engaging and involving the African American community in ongoing efforts to preserve and interpret Menokin, and developing the historic site into a cultural learning center.
  • acting as a leading pilot or prototype for engagement of any community type.
  • telling the big picture story. (What are the lessons to be extracted from our local history?  How do we relate this history to the state in general and, in bigger terms, the world?)

The group now consists of the following advisory members:

MENOKIN

  • Alice French – Menokin Staff; Education and Outreach Coordinator
  • Dudley Olsson – Menokin Board; Education Committee chair
  • Tom Duckenfield – Menokin Board; Education Committee member

MUSEUM AND HUMANITIES PROFESSIONALS

  • Bessida Cauthorne White – Genealogist; Member of Middle Peninsula African American Genealogical Society
  • Lauranett Lee – Virginia Foundation for the Humanities Trustee; former curator of VHS African American exhibits
  • Mariaelena DeBenignio – College of William & Mary history doctorate and researcher

GORDON FAMILY DESCENDANTS & LOCAL COMMUNITY MEMBERS

  • Evelyn Parker
  • Juanita Wells
  • Mark Cox
  • Brenda Leigh Wells
  • Beatrice Robinson Ball
  • Vera Robinson Rich
  • Skip Taylor
EDUCATION AND PROGRAMMING INITIATIVES AT MENOKIN ARE MADE POSSIBLE – IN PART – BY THE 56 SIGNERS SOCIETY OF MENOKIN.

 

Menokin Keystone Jewelry

Pendant is just under 1" long and includes an 18" sterling chain.
Sterling silver necklace of Menokin keystone.

Looks what’s new in the Menokin Gift Shop? This gorgeous piece of jewelry – designed and produced by Carol Koch (sister of our very own Alice French) – is fashioned from the iconic keystone that once graced the entrance to Menokin and is now on display in our Visitor’s Center.

The pendant comes in sterling silver and solid brass. All three are available for purchase in our online SHOP and at the Menokin Visitor’s Center.

A perfect gift for all the Menokin enthusiasts on your list!

The Menokin keystone in situ. Photo taken by Richard and Robert McClintock in 1969.
The Menokin keystone in situ. Photo taken by Richard and Robert McClintock in 1969.