Coleman Warner
Coleman Warner, Mississippi native and longtime journalist, mixes writing, editing, and research as a special assistant to the president of the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. He has written for the New Orleans Times-Picayune, the Jackson, Mississippi, Clarion-Ledger and the Denver Post, as well as various magazines, and spent one memorable summer as an intern with the Meridian Star.
Ten Things I Can’t Do Without
- My wife and daughter
- Faith in all its forms
- Great storytelling
- Siblings, cousins, other extended family, ties unshaken
- A fireplace, stacks of wood
- Journalist friends and real journalism (endangered)
- Walls lined with books, mostly old ones
- Teachers
- Dogs and cats and their advocates
- Travel and dreams of travel
Cole, it was like a nostalgic journey back in time reading your memories of growing up in Meridian. It was very meaningful to my mom (and to me, as well) that you honored her with such kind words. I could relate so well to your observations about school, church, neighborhoods, and race relations. An odd memory of mine is sitting in the Meridian Health Department and noticing that we were in the “white” waiting room and nearby was the “colored” one. I recall, as you do, a mild curiosity about it, but it never occurred to me to question the validity of the situation. It was simply “how it was”. My entire childhood was pretty much that way, just an acceptance of the easygoing lifestyle which I was privileged to enjoy….My parents keep me up-to-date as to how you and your family are. Do you contribute to this site often? I’ll have to follow it…Keep writing! My best, Ginny
Coleman, I am wondering if you or your Father remember Officer Roberts; he was the first Black officer hired for the Meridian Police Department. He was reported as dying by suicide (1975), but we know this was not the case. All the records and information about him have been suppressed. Any information you can provide would be a great help. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Kind Regards,
Michelle
Michelle,
I have not heard of this case and my father would not be a good candidate for recall due to age issues. Would appreciate hearing from you with contact details. I’d like to learn more and hear of your connection or research. Easiest way to reach out would be thru my work email at coleman.warner@nationalww2museum.org, then I’ll communicate thru a more private channel. Thanks. Coleman Warner