A Family’s Silent Burden: The Killing of Arthur Davis
Credit: The Davis Family
A Family Secret Uncovered
Arthur Davis died on June 30, 1950, but the details surrounding his death raised questions about what really happened to him. His story was buried for years, until his grandson started investigating. Through family oral history, neighbor accounts, and troves of documents, Reginald Crawford was finally able to piece together how his grandfather died.
Reported by Pamela Kirkland.
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Reginald Crawford (left) with his Uncle James Davis (center) and Sam Daniels (right) at the soil collection ceremony for Arthur Davis. Credit: Reginald Crawford
Janie Crawford (far left), Reginald Crawford with his Uncle James Davis and Sam Daniels (right) at the soil collection ceremony for Arthur Davis. Credit: Reginald Crawford
Reginald Crawford (right) researching the death of his grandfather, Arthur Davis. Credit: Reginald Crawford
Dorcas Davis, Reginald Crawford’s mother. Credit: Reginald Crawford
Four of Arthur Davis’ children. Dorcas Davis, James Davis, Cyrus Davis, and Annie Paul Davis (from left to right). Credit: Reginald Crawford
Photo of the soil collected at the sit of Arthur Davis’ lynching. The jar is on display at The National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Alabama. Credit: Reginald Crawford
Arthur Davis’ death certificate.
Alice Hawkins, Reginald Crawford’s paternal aunt. Credit: Reginald Crawford