Published October 7, 2008

Henry A. May Book Signing At History Day!

Author Henry A. May, author of First Black Autos, gave a presentation of his research and subsequent book on Friday evening. On Saturday, Mr. May was present at History Day, meeting with those present and signing copies of his book for purchase.

Mr. May became aware of Patterson & Sons Company while hearing his mother, in the 1980s, talk about her childhood trips to Greenfield. Mr. May's mother was a member of the Patterson family but was living in Alabama. May was astounded to learn that there had been an African-American manufacturer of automobiles, let alone a member of his own family. His search for the story eventually brought him to Greenfield several years ago where he made full advantage of the Greenfield Historical Society's archives. Publication of this book is vital because it permanently places the story of Greenfield's C.R. Patterson into the historical record of America.

May, a retired teacher in the NYC public school system, related several times how startled he was that a runaway black slave could find his way to a community that was accepting enough to permit him to employ his skills and talents and rise to a place of prominence and financial success.

This is not to say that Greenfield is, or has been, a bastion of racial harmony, but given the time frame of C.R. Patterson's arrival, it is pretty unique and something to take a little pride in. It is also something we should all keep in mind as our community and our nation continues the effort to further break down the barriers of racial division. 

Copies of May's book are available for purchase at Traveler's Rest. Couldn't think of a better Christmas present for the members of your family. What a tool to help teach pride in one's own community!

Henry A. May and Greenfield resident, Barb Cole.

greenfieldohio@gmail.com