Book gives unique insight on general

Rob Humphreys / Culpeper Star Exponent
Published: March 27, 2008

The title alone is enough to elicit a resounding "What the … "
In today's era, a book called "Stonewall Jackson: The Black Man's Friend" might make most people scratch their heads or immediately label the author nuts.

But get beyond the ingrained social baggage associated with the Confederacy's (second) most beloved general and you'll find that Richard G. Williams Jr. has crafted a convincing argument for why Thomas J. Jackson - the devout Presbyterian, stern military genius and hero of the Shenandoah Valley - was, indeed, the black man's friend.

Williams' 223-page book, released in 2006 by Cumberland House Publishing, retails for $20.95 and has sold nearly 6,000 copies. "Stonewall" addresses a fascinating Virginia niche - a fusion of faith, race relations, Civil War history and modern remnants of Jackson's legacy.

The book focuses on Jackson's little known Sunday school class for slaves and free blacks in Lexington, the Rockbridge County town where he taught at the Virginia Military Institute before entering the war in 1861.

Long story short, Jackson left such an impression on the area's African-American community that, to this day, a historically black church in Roanoke proudly displays a stained-glass window devoted to his memory. Descendants of his Sabbath class still tell stories about how their ancestors overcame illiteracy or strengthened their faith in Christ through Jackson's tireless efforts.

Some of those who attended his class actually begged - much to Jackson's initial refusal - to have him as their master. Alas, that is the reason Jackson owned a small number of slaves.
Such tidbits - combined with a well-researched, thoroughly documented analysis - make "Stonewall" a heart-warming read.

By today's standards, Jackson, who did not espouse slavery yet believed the will of God played a role in its institution, would be considered anything but politically correct. Yet for his time and place, Jackson defied cultural norms with a progressive mindset and spiritual love that transcended color.

With courage to broach a sensitive subject and always cognizant not to come across as an apologist for America's original sin, Williams deftly guides readers through their natural reticence to believe that a slave-holding Southern general could have been anything other than the stereotypical Rebel.
And for that, "Stonewall" deserves praise.

Rob Humphreys can be reached at 825-0771 ext. 128 or