By Garry Blanson
Every day, as time goes by, I learn more and more about how much of the local history and accomplishments of our Black ancestors are fading away—right along with our Black loved ones. Regretfully, among the many things that have been lost is the history of the names of former subdivisions in Monroe, Louisiana, that were named for Black families of Monroe.
Within the last couple of months, I have learned of two such former subdivisions. The first subdivision was named the Aaron Jackson Addition. It was located around Pine Street in Monroe and could have possibly included Pine Street as well. This subdivision was reportedly named for a Black contractor from Monroe named Aaron Jackson. By the way, Elder Quincy Gardner is one of the descendants of Aaron Jackson.
The second subdivision was named the Flintroy Addition. This subdivision is said to have been named for the Flintroy family of Monroe. Interestingly, Mrs. Thelma Menyweather, who is a descendant of the Flintroy family, currently resides in the city of Monroe, Louisiana.
These are just two of the former subdivisions that were named for Black families of Monroe.
Now, let’s get to this week’s Black pioneer.
Fredessa Shamlin Payne was born on May 6, 1921, in Bosco, Louisiana, to Leon and Alberta Shamlin. Surprisingly, her father owned a 70-acre farm, and he was the first Black man in Ouachita Parish to run for a seat on the Ouachita Parish School Board.
During her early schooling, Fredessa attended and graduated from Monroe Colored High School in Monroe, Louisiana. After graduating, she decided to attend Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she received her bachelor’s degree in home economics.
Following her graduation from Southern University, Fredessa accepted a teaching position in the Ouachita Parish School System at Terzia High School. For more than 30 years, she rendered untiring service as a high school economics teacher.
Interestingly, Fredessa was one of the original founders of Les Martinique Civic and Social Club for Young Black Girls in Monroe. Many of these young girls went on to become lawyers, doctors, and other productive members of the Monroe community.
Additionally, among the many clubs and organizations she was involved in during her lifetime were long-term membership at Union Baptist Church of Bosco, Louisiana; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated; the Order of the Eastern Star; and the Monroe/Grambling Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, to name a few.
Sadly, on July 6, 2006, after a lifetime of dedicated service, Fredessa J. Shamlin Payne went home to be with the Lord.
