Interview with Estill Carter, January 14, 1987

Interview Summary

Mr. Carter started farming after the death of his mother, Martha Bell Carter in the influenza epidemic of 1918, to help out his family. He talks about living in the small, close knit, rural community of Frogtown where neighbors took care of their own. He recalls family life before and after his mother's death; his army service during World War I; and, losing their home when the landowner died. Mr. Carter remembers his sharecropping experiences: treatment by white employers, both good and bad; chores expected of him; and, all the families for which he worked.
A life long church attendee, Mr. Carter remarks upon how the present day churches have changed: the influence of money; attitudes of ministers and congregation; less spirituality and concern for others; and, less closeness among families. He discusses the loss of African American cultural identity as African Americans become more prosperous; less cohesiveness among African Americans as a group; the lack of spiritual grounding and unity; and, the excess emphasis on money and material goods as opposed to religious faith.
Mr. Carter recounts his personal philosophy and creed; the lessons learned from his parents; the importance of letting go of the past and getting on with life; and, his relationship with white friends. He also mentions the impact and effects of the civil rights movement; remembers Dr. Martin Luther King; and, reiterates his views regarding politics.

Interview Keyword

African Americans African Americans in Lexington Lexington, Kentucky Race relations

Interview LC Subject

African American families African Americans--Civil rights--Kentucky African Americans--Education--Kentucky--Lexington African Americans--Kentucky--Lexington--Economic conditions African Americans--Race identity. African Americans--Religion African Americans. Carter, Estill Carter, Estill--Interviews

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Interview Usage

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