A descendant of a slave, Al Arnold, tells his journey of embracing his Confederate heritage. His ancestor, Turner Hall, Jr., a Black Confederate, served as a body servant for two Confederate soldiers and an orderly for General Robert E. Lee. Turner Hall, Jr. returned to Okolona, Mississippi after the Civil War. Hall served a prominent family in that community for five generations. His life's journey eventually led him to Hugo, Oklahoma where he established himself as the town's most distinguished citizen receiving acclaim from Black and White citizens alike for his service. In 1938, his journey continued to Pennsylvania as the last Civil War veteran from his community to attend the final Civil War veteran reunion, as a Black Confederate. He also traveled to New York City and was interviewed by the national talk radio show, "We, The People" in 1940.
One hundred and three years after the Civil War, Hall's great-great grandson, Al Arnold, was born in Okolona, Mississippi. Raised in North Mississippi, Al would later discover the history of his ancestor and began an eight year journey of why, how and for what reasons his ancestor served the Confederate armies? To his amazement, Al discovered that seventy two years after the Civil war, his ancestor was a proud Confederate and held in his possession a cherished gift from the Confederate Civil War general, Nathan Bedford Forrest. Al's personal research discovered that his ancestor was owned by Forrest and was enthusiastically warm toward the general and his service to the Confederate armies. This amazing connection to two famous Confederate generals awakened a new perception of curiosity about Confederate heritage in Al and challenged his traditional thoughts. He grew to accept his heritage and now embraces it with a desire to see African Americans embrace Confederate heritage instead of rejecting it on the notion of modern ideology. This is a deep personal journey of faith, heritage, race and family wrapped around the grace of God through the eyes and honest thoughts of a modern black man. Al tells the story of Turner Hall, Jr., his personal Confederate journey and how family and faith has brought harmony to his new found heritage. Arnold argues for the revitalization of the lost Black history of the Civil War era. He bestows dignity and honor on his Confederate ancestor and challenges the traditional thoughts of modern African Americans. Arnold rests in his faith as the uniting force that reconciles our colorful past to our bright future.
Industry Reviews
A book for all modern Americans.,December 15, 2015
This is an excellent book and should be read by everyone in America. Not only does it tell the history of a very proud veteran but relates the times of the 1860’s to those of today. Very compelling.
A Must Read For Every US Citizen
December 22, 2015
Excellent…excellent…excellent! This story needed to be told. Finally, someone has the courage to challenge the distorted meaning of "confederate". Far too long the bigots and hate groups have hi-jacked the meaning of “confederate” and the flag without any recourse. Now an African American and true descendant of an actual slave participant in the Confederate Army during the Civil War has emerged to tell the story of his great-great grandfather. Regardless of how minuscule some may view his role, it was a role that was vital and had to be done by someone. Having served in the military myself during the first Gulf War, I clearly understand that all roles of the military are important, and even more so during war time. What an amazing story! Unlike myself and others who have allowed hate groups to hi-jack the meaning of “confederate” due to our ignorance or fear of political, social or cultural backlash…Mr. Arnold has boldly stood up for a heritage that he and his family are so rightfully due. Like Mr. Arnold, I too am African American and proud to be from the wonderful state of Mississippi. I must admit…I certainly did not agree with him on the representation of the confederate flag but through the reading of this book (twice), I am now challenging my own perception of what I thought to be true. I believe every citizen of the United States should read this book (young and old alike) because it’s time that we as citizens challenge many of the distorted perceptions plaguing our great nation. We live in an information age; therefore the truth behind many buried lies will eventually find its way to the surface. We can remain in denial and prolong the change that’s inevitable or courageously embrace it to better mankind. I challenge anyone that has not read this book to do so and “dare” to allow Mr. Arnold to take you on a journey that might make you really think. Job well done…Mr. Arnold!
5.0 This is an inspiring work of literature
ByJames B Johnsonon December 17, 2015
The historical aspect of this book is excellent! I love history but what really inspired me was how Mr. Arnold incorporates the way we actually can get along despite our differences and by embracing our differences, all cultures become richer in doing so! I could go on and on but I urge everyone to read this book!!
