Rev. Walters (1956) From The Al Henderson Photographs Collection is housed within the Charles F. Cummings New Jersey Information Center at the Newark Public Library.

Joy Lived Here: Reverend Walters, 1956

We’re proud to launch Joy Lived Here, a new visual archive series by Black Men Smile that traces the revolutionary power of Black joy across time. Each week, we’ll spotlight a historic photograph of Black joy and resilience —and share the story behind the image and the time in which it was taken. This is a love letter to our past. A rebellion against erasure. A celebration of our presence.

In this inaugural feature of our "Joy Lived Here" series, we delve into, we honor this 1956 portrait of Reverend Walters, a spiritual leader in Newark, New Jersey. His dignified, gentle smile—mouth closed, eyes steady—conveys pride, strength, and deep presence.

Seated with poise, Reverend Walters' gentle, closed-mouth smile and direct gaze convey a sense of honor and steadfastness. His black suit and composed demeanor reflect the respect he commanded with grace and humility within his congregation and the broader community.

Historical Backdrop

The mid-1950s were transformative years for Newark. The city's commitment to civil rights was evident in its early actions against segregation, setting precedents that would influence national movements. Culturally, Newark's jazz scene flourished, with local talents gaining national acclaim and enriching the city's artistic landscape. Infrastructure developments, like the completion of the Newark Bay Bridge, signaled economic growth and urban expansion.

Against this backdrop, Reverend Walters' serene and proud demeanor in the photograph embodies the resilience and dignity of Newark's Black community during a time of both challenge and progress.

Reverend Walters' portrait encapsulates the spirit of a community navigating the complexities of progress and tradition.His smile serves as a testament to the enduring presence of Black joy and resistance, even amidst societal shifts.

What do you see when you look at Reverend Walters?
What does his joy say to your present moment?

The Al Henderson Photographs Collection is housed within the Charles F. Cummings New Jersey Information Center at the Newark Public Library. This collection comprises photographic negatives captured by Al Henderson, a photographer based in Newark, New Jersey, spanning from 1932 to 1988. The collection offers valuable insights into Newark's cultural and social history, featuring subjects such as African American artists, jazz musicians, and various aspects of the local community. Researchers and the public can access these digitized images through the Newark Public Library's digital archive.

Joy Lived Here is a weekly archival series from Black Men Smile that uncovers historic images of Black joy and resilience—freely, fully, and often in quiet defiance of their time.
Each post includes the year and place of the photo, alongside the historical context behind the smile.
Because no matter the struggle—joy lives here.

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Joy Lived Here: Rev. Walters 1956