Welcome to Vtext at Valdosta State University
Vtext is Valdosta State University's institutional repository, providing open access to the scholarly, creative, and administrative works of the University community. It also houses digitized materials from the VSU Archives and Special Collections.
Faculty, students, and staff can register and deposit their work directly into Vtext, ensuring that it is securely preserved, permanently accessible, and discoverable worldwide. Each item receives a stable, citable URL designed for long-term reliability—supporting both academic visibility and digital preservation for years to come. Please contact the VSU Archives and Special Collections for more information.
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Item Reverend Robert Troup Obituary(Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections, 2026, 1908-12-19)Reverend Robert Troup was a respected African American landowner, minister, and community member in Lowndes County, Georgia. Born around 1828, he originally came from Laurens County, Georgia, and later moved to Lowndes County, where he became well known throughout the region. According to his 1908 obituary, Troup had lived on a six-acre tract of land for approximately thirty-six years, property he purchased from W.H. and T. S. McKey. The obituary also states that he had formerly belonged to Governor George M. Troup, indicating that he had been enslaved before emancipation. Despite the hardships of slavery, Troup acquired land after the Civil War and established himself as an independent property owner and respected citizen. On September 10, 1878, a deed recorded in Lowndes County confirmed Robert Troup's ownership of a six-acre parcel purchased from W.H. and T. S. McKey. His ownership of this property represented a significant achievement during Reconstruction, as African Americans increasingly sought economic independence through land ownership. Troup lived on this property for the remainder of his life. Robert Troup died in December 1908 at approximately eighty years of age after suffering from paralysis for some time. His obituary described him as a man of "good character and strict honesty" who was well-liked by all who knew him. His wife had preceded him in death by about fourteen years, and he was survived by numerous relatives who were themselves respected members of the community. His life reflects the remarkable transition from enslavement to landownership and community leadership in post-Civil War South Georgia.Item Emma and Carolyn Griffin, Oral History Interview, October 16, 2025(Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections, 2026., 2025-10-16)Carolyn Griffin and Emma Reed Griffin share their memories of River Hill Missionary Baptist Church, highlighting its role as a place of faith, family, and community. They discuss the church’s early history, schoolhouse experiences, traditions such as “eating on the grounds,” celebrations, and fellowship events. Both reflect on how the church has changed over time while emphasizing the importance of preserving its history, traditions, and spiritual legacy for future generations.Item Rechell Thomas, Oral History Interview, September 24, 2025(Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections, 2026., 2025-09-24)This oral history interview with Rechell Thomas explores her lifelong connection to River Hill Missionary Baptist Church and the influence of family, faith, and community on her personal and professional journey. Thomas shares memories of growing up in a church-centered family, the roles her relatives held within the congregation, youth programs, worship traditions, and community activities. She discusses how River Hill shaped her values of service, acceptance, fellowship, and giving back, which continue to influence her career as a licensed professional counselor. The interview highlights the importance of church traditions, youth involvement, family support, and the lasting impact of River Hill Missionary Baptist Church on multiple generations of the community.Item Group Interview, Oral History Interview, September 18, 2025(Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections, 2026., 2025-09-18)This oral history interview with Jacqueline Burgman, Eddie McCormick, Fannie McCormick, Clara Henderson, and Susie Donaldson documents the history, traditions, and community significance of River Hill Missionary Baptist Church. The interviewees share memories of the church’s early location, the relocation of the church building, the nearby school, and the experiences of growing up in the River Hill community. They discuss church leadership, worship practices, community support, youth programs, Easter celebrations, church anniversaries, and the important roles of elders, families, and volunteers in sustaining the congregation. The interview also explores changes over time, including shifts in community relationships, church participation, education, and cultural traditions. Throughout the conversation, participants emphasize the importance of faith, respect for elders, service, family connections, and preserving the history and legacy of River Hill Missionary Baptist Church.Item Brenda Williams, Oral History Interview, August 22, 2025(Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections, 2026., 2025-08-22)Brenda Williams shares her lifelong connection to River Hill Missionary Baptist Church, describing its role in shaping her faith, values, and commitment to service. She recalls childhood traditions such as Sunday school collections, union meetings, church fellowships, and community gatherings. Williams discusses her many roles within the church, including youth activities, ministries, and support for church members, emphasizing the importance of fellowship and outreach. She reflects on her career as a special education teacher and how the lessons of compassion, kindness, and service learned from her family and church guided her work. Williams highlights the importance of preserving River Hill’s history, traditions, and legacy for future generations.