ROOTS Voices
ROOTS Voices was a project that was conducted by BHS with community partners at the ROOTS (Relative of Old Timers) picnic that is held annually on the first Sunday of September in Seattle, WA. The picnic has been in existence for more than 50 years and draws the descendants and friends of Washington State Black people.
Here are examples of interviews that were collected in past years.
Carver Gayton
Carver C. Gayton is a lifelong educator, historian, and civic leader. The first Black FBI agent from Washington and founding director of the Northwest African American Museum, he’s shaped education, policy, and public history in Seattle and beyond.
Interview coming soon — contact BHS for current availability.
Ulester Garry, Sr
Ulester Garry, Sr., a pioneering figure in Seattle’s Central District, renowned as a barber, community leader, and union organizer. In 1956, he founded the Haven of Associated Barbers — Seattle’s first Black barbers’ union — and served as its inaugural president.
Interview coming soon — contact BHS for current availability.
DeCharlene Williams
DeCharlene Williams (1943–2018) was a pioneering Seattle entrepreneur and activist. Founder of the Central Area Chamber of Commerce and owner of DeCharlene’s Beauty Salon, she championed Black-owned businesses and economic empowerment in the Central District.
Interview coming soon — contact BHS for current availability.