OVERVIEW

The Wren’s Nest is the historic, West End home of Atlanta author Joel Chandler Harris, where some of the world’s most famous literature was written.  We all remember Uncle Remus and Brer Rabbit along with the other multitude of incredible characters and colorful tales written by Harris.  However, not many know that Harris’ stories have their origin in Africa.   More than that, Harris learned these stories (and their lessons) while working on a plantation.  Harris was never a slave owner, but was a stuttering, bastard child and was considered to be a lesser person than the other whites in rural Georgia.

It was this upbringing that relative and current Board Chairman of The Wren’s Nest, Lain Shakespeare, says contributed to Harris’ moral compass and his pen, instruments that over 100 years ago were pointing solidly in the direction of Civil Rights through his writing; the first collection of tales was published in 1880.

Lain joins Gene on this month’s ART STROLL to talk about the legacy of Harris and his contributions to Civil Rights.  Also joining is “Wren’s Nest Rambler”, Curtis Richardson, a more than charismatic storyteller with The Wren’s Nest.  Listen to this show to hear Curtis and Lain share their stories.  Enjoy.

ENJOY FREE STORYTELLING and tours each Saturday at The Wren’s Nest.  This upcoming Saturday, July 28th, Sidewalk Radio will be providing FREE KING OF POPS popsicles to all guests.  Show starts at 1:00, but come a little early for a VIP tour of this historic house museum.