Essay
Photo credit: Michael Hnatov
Accession Number: C.2011.1031.1
Dimensions: 14 in X 11 in X 0.5 in
Dimensions (Metric): 35.56 cm X 27.94 cm X 1.27 cm
Dimensions (Metric): 35.56 cm X 27.94 cm X 1.27 cm
Source: Cindy Cherry-Taylor
Credit Line: Gift of The Cherry Family
Description
Two-page handwritten essay found in the firehouse locker of Vernon Paul Cherry. The essay is written on FDNY letterhead, and each page is individually framed. The essay addresses the issue of race within America and the ranks of the FDNY.
Two-page handwritten essay found in the firehouse locker of Vernon Paul Cherry. The essay is written on FDNY letterhead, and each page is individually framed. The essay addresses the issue of race within America and the ranks of the FDNY.
Historical Notes
Raised in Queens, Vernon Cherry lived in New York City with his wife, Joanne. They had three children. A firefighter with FDNY Ladder Company 118, Vernon belonged to the Vulcan Society, an association of black firefighters. He moonlighted as a wedding singer specializing in Barry White and Frank Sinatra tunes. On September 11, Firefighter Cherry responded to the World Trade Center. He was 49 years old.
Raised in Queens, Vernon Cherry lived in New York City with his wife, Joanne. They had three children. A firefighter with FDNY Ladder Company 118, Vernon belonged to the Vulcan Society, an association of black firefighters. He moonlighted as a wedding singer specializing in Barry White and Frank Sinatra tunes. On September 11, Firefighter Cherry responded to the World Trade Center. He was 49 years old.
