ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Bryan Jack is an associate professor of historical studies at Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville. He is the editor of Southern History on Screen: Race and Rights, 1976–2016, and The Saint Louis African American Community and the Exodusters. His articles have appeared in The Griot and the Councilor, and in international publications from the British Association of American Studies and American Studies of Turkey. Jack earned his Ph.D. from Saint Louis University, a master’s degree from the University of Alabama, and a bachelor’s degree from Baker University. He lives in the city of St. Louis.

CROSSING THE RED SEA: ST. LOUIS AND THE EXODUS OF 1879
In 1879, thousands of African Americans fled the post-Reconstruction South in search of political, economic, and social opportunities in Kansas. Called “Exodusters” after the Biblical story of escape from oppression, many arrived in St. Louis destitute, and city officials refused to help. To the stranded Exodusters, St. Louis became a barrier as formidable as the Red Sea. However, through a commitment to civil rights and a remarkable display of community organization, African Americans in St. Louis came together to sustain the Exodusters’ material needs as well as provide funds to continue their journey. The Exoduster movement, and the relief efforts that supported it, provide a unique opportunity to further our understanding of St. Louis as a city, of Missouri as a state, and of African American life in an era of dramatic change.

Intended Audience: General Public and Adults
(Q&A segment follows the presentation).

VENUE
Missouri River Relief
14040 W Hwy Bb
Rocheport, MO 65279

ORGANIZER
Missouri Relief
Kristen Shulte
Phone: 636.288.5570
Email: kristen@riverrelief.org