Four book covers are shown: "Buffalo Soldiers in the West," "Light in the Midst of Zion," "Golden Ax," and "Black Pioneers." Themes include Black history and identity.

Jan 30, 2023 5 Great Books about Utah Black History

Posted at 10:38h in General, Recommendations by
7 Likes

Black history in Utah is rich, varied, and complex. These five books show that history. Be sure to check out the links pointing to related events to learn even more about Utah’s history.

Cover of "Golden Ax" by Rio Cortez features a blue figure reaching out, with a glowing orange halo, and a National Book Award Longlist seal. Tone is artistic and striking.

Golden Ax by Rio Cortez

A beautiful book of poetry that tells the story of the author’s ancestors (whom she calls Afropioneers) in Salt Lake City and the American West. Come join in on a virtual book discussion Feb 8 at 4 pm. Email allyson.mower@utah.edu for details.

Red book cover titled "Light in the Midst of Zion" by France Davis. Features an image of a man in a clerical robe, conveying a solemn, respectful tone.

Light in the Midst of Zion by France Davis

Learn the long and full history of Black Baptists in Utah from esteemed author, orator, and community leader Rev. France A. Davis.

Cover of "Buffalo Soldiers in the West: A Black Soldiers Anthology" with sketches of soldiers in sepia tones. Title is bold, conveying historical significance.

Buffalo Soldiers in the West edited by Bruce Glasrud and Michael Searles

Check out the chapter titled “Improbable Ambassadors” by Michael Clark for an in-depth story of Black soldiers and leaders at Fort Douglas. Also check out this upcoming event at the Post Chapel about Lt. Col. Chaplain Allen Allensworth

Title page of a dissertation titled "A History of Blacks in Utah, 1825-1910" by Ronald Gerald Coleman, submitted for a PhD at the University of Utah, March 1980.

History of Blacks in Utah by Ronald Coleman

The quintessential scholarly study of Black history in Utah.

A vintage photograph of a Black family. A woman and two children stand beside an ornate chair holding an infant. The book cover text reads "Black Pioneers."

Black Pioneers by John Ravage

An excellent collection of historic photographs and images showing the active history and significant contributions of Black pioneers in the West.

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2 Comments
  • Jenn Gibbs
    Posted at 22:37h, 06 February

    Thank you for putting together this booklist!

    • Allyson Mower
      Posted at 15:49h, 09 February

      You’re most welcome! Let me know which ones you end up liking the most!