The Yellow Rose of Texas is a familiar song that has served as a Civil War marching tune, a pop chart staple and a halftime anthem along with two centuries of mythmaking that has mixed fact and fable. Visit Deer Park Public Library on Feb. 21 at 11 a.m. to learn what we know about the person at the center of the stories.
The true story of Emily D. West remains in dispute beneath tales that grew up around it. The complete truth may never be recovered, but author Lora-Marie Bernard seeks to tell an honest account of the journey that brought a free black woman from Connecticut to the Texas revolution.
A Lone Star native who grew up immersed in the Yellow Rose legend, Bernard also traces other stories that legend has obscured, including the connection between Emily D. West and plans for a free black colony in Texas. Bernard is author of a new book on Emily D. West and will have copies available to sign.
This presentation is the latest installment in the library’s Featured Friday series. These monthly programs offer a variety of lectures, movies and special programs of cultural, historical and local interest.
Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Deer Park Public Library. No registration is required and all are welcome to attend. There is no admission fee. The library is located at 3009 Center St., Deer Park, TX 77536.
