The Freestone County Historical Museum has been contacted by a man who is writing a book about Kenny Dorham, Jazz trumpeter, singer and composer.
He is particularly interested in Mr. Dorham’s early life in Freestone County and plans to visit in July.
The museum is asking for help from the community for information about Kenny Dorham and the history of Freestone County during the time he lived here from 1924-36.
Dorham’s parents, McKinley and Eva (Minnie), sharecropped for the Aultman family. Apparently, Mr. Aultman also co-owned “Aultman and Vestal’s General Store.”
The Dorhams also worked on a 300-acre farm owned by Watt Parker. And, Dorham’s father worked on building a paved road across the Trinity River around 1930.
The family is thought to have lived in a farmhouse in the Post Oak community.
Minnie Dorham’s family name was Manning. Her family was in Freestone County well before 1900.
Any information related to the Dorham and Manning families, and the people they worked for will be very helpful and greatly appreciated.
Please contact the museum by email or telephone with any details that you may be willing to share.
903-389-3738 (Wed, Fri, Sat 10-5)
