Dr. Myeshia C. Babers '07 '14 '17, who has a bachelor's degree in sociology and master's and Ph.D. in anthropology, merged her passion for academics with personal history to create a historical marker to bring attention to the underrepresented narrative of an African American community in Calvert, Texas — a community that included her grandmother, Charlie Mae Babers.
“It wasn’t until my grandmother passed away that I truly recognized the historical significance of this old building in Calvert that was a constant part of my childhood memories,” she said. “Time marches on, people get older, they pass away and they take their stories with them. The passing of my grandmother hit me hard, but it ignited a spark in me to talk to people and record their stories. Granny had stories that no one else could tell and experiences no one else could share. Many of those stories are now gone.”
Memories Spurring Action
After the passing of her grandmother, she began conducting research with the Texas Historical Commission and discovered the Undertold Marker Program, which specializes in recognizing hidden histories of marginalized groups.
“I knew that marking Calvert Colored High School would allow me to pay tribute to my family and shine a cultural spotlight that would foster an understanding of the historical significance of African American education in Texas.”
Babers’ project involved uncovering the hidden history of Calvert Colored High School, one of the many “Rosenwald Schools” shepherded by Julius Rosenwald in a historic movement to build new and comparable schools for African American children in the South. While schools were still segregated in the 1900s, Rosenwald sought to remedy the disparity for communities that desired better education. He was extremely particular about the integrity of the architecture and quality of the course materials, wishing to ensure that students received instruction that was rigorous and preparatory for their futures. Rosenwald was also intentional with the placement of each school.
Keep History Alive
With the proper designations, the Undertold Marker’s program application is free, unlike the general application which requires a fee to incentivize funding for special priority markers. The Undertold Marker’s program is designed for “relevant subjects under the general app, but for minority communities.
“Any historically significant location for a minority ethnic group in Texas may apply,” said Babers.
Her work in Calvert will ensure the school's legacy for generations.
“Talk to your grandparents, talk to your parents,” Babers said. “As times change, so do their experiences. There are lessons to learn and wisdom to be gained from their stories. I hope the marker inspires students to explore and advocate for the preservation of history in their own communities.”
The undertold marker project preserves local history honors generations who came before us and deeply enriches our present and future communities.
"By uplifting and centering these voices, we can create a more complete and nuanced understanding of our collective history, fostering empathy and connection across diverse groups,” she said. “Sometimes you just need someone from the outside to show you how amazing your local environment or surroundings are in a broader historical context.”