Photo collector teaches community about African American history

BURGAW, NC (WWAY) — It’s Black History Month and people in Burgaw were invited to go back in time through photographs at the Pender County Public Library Saturday morning.

Photo collector Craig James is originally from Pender County. Over the years, he has gathered dozens of photos of 19th century African Americans, including one of his own ancestors (“Nursey” James).

He says he loves getting the chance to show off his collection and teach the community a little history.

“It’s really great. I love it when people come out and look at the photographs and have that wow factor,” James said. “It’s great to get feedback from individuals of the community and also hopefully create some interest in their own hearts to want to become historians of their family and preserve that information.”

James has displayed his collection all over North Carolina. He’s held exhibits in Wilmington, Durham, and Mebane.