Recently, a valuable cache of photographs featuring civil rights icon Rosa Parks has been uncovered at Stanford University Libraries. These images document the 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, a pivotal event in the civil rights movement.
Photographs from the Matt Herron Collection
The newly discovered photos were taken by renowned photographer Matt Herron. They were found within the extensive Matt Herron Photography Archive, which spans from the 1950s to 2020. This archive was donated to Stanford University in 2022.
Historical Context of the March
During the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march, Herron captured significant moments, including images of notable figures like Martin Luther King, Jr., Coretta Scott King, and Harry Belafonte. The recently found photographs of Rosa Parks depict her engaging with fellow protesters and making powerful speeches in front of the Alabama State Capitol.
Significance of the Discovery
These particular images had not been published previously and remained archived as contact sheets within Herron’s personal collection. Lerone Martin, a key figure in the study of civil rights history, emphasized Parks’ significance in the civil rights movement. He stated, “These photos show us Rosa Parks as the trained, deliberate, intelligent activist who was a part of the backbone of the Black freedom struggle.”
Ongoing Preservation Efforts
The photos, along with other important items from Herron’s collection, will be digitized and cataloged for future accessibility at Stanford’s archives. This effort ensures that the legacy of Rosa Parks and her contributions to civil rights will be preserved for generations to come.
- Discovery: Photographs of Rosa Parks from the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march.
- Archive: Part of the Matt Herron Photography Archive at Stanford University.
- Significant Figures: Includes Martin Luther King, Jr., Coretta Scott King, and Harry Belafonte.
- Legacy: Photos will be digitized and preserved in Stanford’s collections.
