
WELCOME TO
WILSON, NC,
MR. HUGHES!
In 1949, Langston Hughes took a "little trip south" to Wilson, NC during National Negro History Week. His trip was sponsored by the Wilson County Negro Library and the proceeds they earned from his performances went to fund their bookmobile. By clicking the "Start the Trip" button below, you will be able to retrace Hughes' 1949 trip to Wilson, NC through his poem "Freedom's Plow" that was recited to him by students at the Wilson, NC St. Alphonsus School. By clicking "Learn More," you will be able to find more research and contextual information surrounding "Freedom's Plow" and Hughes' visit to eastern North Carolina.
Research Update (Coming Soon): Two former St. Alphonsus students who witnessed Hughes' visit remember him and their days at St. Alphonsus School.