About This Event
Join the Goochland and Louisa County Historical Societies as we welcome Dr. Wanda Alderman to discuss her new book A Paper Bridge: Love Letters from the Great Migration. This poignant collection of letters written by Herbert Ellis Cosby to his wife, Jannie, between 1927 and 1941 is set against the backdrop of the Great Migration. The letters chronicle a Black family's journey through separation, racism, and economic hardship. Herbert's 14-year search for stable employment, while enduring the emotional strain of long-distance love, reflects the broader experience of Black Americans pursuing better opportunities in the North.
Sunday, November 16, 2025
2:00 p.m.
About the Author
Dr. Wanda A. Alderman, a senior consultant, author, and urban sociologist, is deeply
rooted in a rich family heritage. She is the great-great-granddaughter of William and
Nancy Ellis (Goochland), the great-granddaughter of Calvin and Virginia Ellis
(Louisa), and the granddaughter of Herbert Gordon and Jannie Ellis Cosby. This
heritage has shaped her values and perspectives. A proud alumna of Howard University
and a mother of two adult sons, she resides in Washington, DC, with her husband and
their cherished dog, Max.
About This Event
Join the Goochland and Louisa County Historical Societies as we welcome Dr. Wanda Alderman to discuss her new book A Paper Bridge: Love Letters from the Great Migration. This poignant collection of letters written by Herbert Ellis Cosby to his wife, Jannie, between 1927 and 1941 is set against the backdrop of the Great Migration. The letters chronicle a Black family's journey through separation, racism, and economic hardship. Herbert's 14-year search for stable employment, while enduring the emotional strain of long-distance love, reflects the broader experience of Black Americans pursuing better opportunities in the North.
Sunday, November 16, 2025
2:00 p.m.
About the Author
Dr. Wanda A. Alderman, a senior consultant, author, and urban sociologist, is deeply
rooted in a rich family heritage. She is the great-great-granddaughter of William and
Nancy Ellis (Goochland), the great-granddaughter of Calvin and Virginia Ellis
(Louisa), and the granddaughter of Herbert Gordon and Jannie Ellis Cosby. This
heritage has shaped her values and perspectives. A proud alumna of Howard University
and a mother of two adult sons, she resides in Washington, DC, with her husband and
their cherished dog, Max.