Roz Bowie—A Black Woman pays tribute to unknown Confederate soldier
Confederate History Month Series
A Confederate History Minute (17)
by Calvin E. Johnson, Jr.
Roz Bowie—A Black Woman pays tribute to unknown Confederate soldierTake me home to the place where I was born, on a early frosty morn, Sweet Dixie, Take me home.
These words are from a LP recording by Mrs. Roz Bowie, an African American woman, who made a recording called, "Take Me Home (The Ballad of the Unkown Confederate soldier)." This song is included on Mrs. Bowie’s album called "Dixie."
Mrs. Bowie is said to have been inspired to do the "Dixie" album by the spirit of events that took place at the Battle of Ox Hill, Virginia, on September 1, 1862, where a Confederate soldier was killed in the battle during a blinding rainstorm. 124 years later the remains were unearthed during a construction project near the present city of Chantily, Virginia. His remains were taken home and a memorial service was held in Columbia, South Carolina, on November 22, 1986. Mrs. Bowie, a Southern lady, wanted to be a part of this event.
Because of the momentous and solemn occasion that thousands came to pay their respects as they reburied this soldier, Roz Bowie sung the song "Take Me Home" as well as Dixie and Bonnie Blue Flag.
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