What comes first?

As an informed writer, I have more to work with, more inspiration, in a sense. 

What comes first in writing: research or inspiration? I say inspiration! It fuels the research and hones craft. But, when I began my journey as a poet decades ago, I thought whatever I was inspired to write would come to the page as it was meant. Now, I see the difference reading and researching make.  

As a more informed writer, I have more to work with, more inspiration, in a sense. It's the perfect balance for someone like me who likes to use both sides of my brain -- fall in love but think about it first :-). 

So, with the project I'm currently working on, thanks to the Duke Energy Regional Artist Project Grant through the Winston-Salem/Forsyth Co. Arts Council, I'm digging deeper into the research of African American churches and cemeteries.

​I thought, in case there is someone else who can't ignore the pull to know more about this part of our history, I would create a list of websites I have found with the most helpful and comprehensive information. Of course, you can do your own Googling, but since I'm doing it, I might as well share.

I will add to this list as it develops. Feel free to email me should you find information you think would be helpful to me or someone else!

Links to Online Resources

• South Carolina -- Slave Burials, South Carolina's Information Highway
• "Slaves' Forgotten Burial Sites, Marked Online," NY Times, March 2013 
• Burial Database Project of Enslaved African Americans, Fordham University
• African American Cemeteries Online

---