John Maddox
Gas Rush
This series consists of original digital audio interview recordings and selected CD listening copies relating to the Carrie and Michael Kline's documenting the wide spectrum of citizen opinion about natural gas extraction (Fracking / hydraulic fracturing) in Northcentral West Virginia mainly during 2014 and 2015. The interviews were drawn upon for use in the 8-minute audio feature Pay Dirt. Originals are housed with the Michael and Carrie Nobel Kline Collection at the Berea College Special Collections and Archives.
To browse this collection and others, please visit the Berea College Special Collections & Archives: https://bereaarchives.libraryhost.com/
National Capital Contracting
On June 25, 2015, Rob Arnold interviewed Dr. John Maddox at his home in Flushing, Ohio, for a project documenting regional oral histories. Dr. Maddox, curator and founder of the Underground Railroad Museum Foundation, reflects on his life, career, and the legacy of African American history. Born in Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1935, Dr. Maddox shares his experiences during the Great Migration, his adoption, education, and eventual move to Ohio. He discusses the founding of the museum, inspired by his discovery of local Civil War reenactments and histories, and its role in preserving over 18,000 artifacts related to slavery and the Underground Railroad.
The interview provides insight into Dr. Maddox’s storytelling approach, historical research methods, and community engagement efforts. He emphasizes the educational mission of the museum to illuminate American history, highlighting themes of resilience, systemic inequality, and cultural preservation. Dr. Maddox also recounts his relationship with his late wife, Rosalind, and her contributions to the museum’s establishment.
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Voices Oral History Archives does not verify the accuracy of materials submitted to us. The opinions expressed in the interviews are those of the interviewee only. The interviews here have been made available to the public only after the interviewer has confirmed that they have obtained consent.