Record #:

5021

Author(s):

Sharpe, Bill

Abstract:

From the slave period until 1898, African Americans in Eastern North Carolina observed a Christmastime custom called Jonkonnu. The practice originated in Jamaica and spread to North Carolina, which was the only state where it was observed. Jonkonnu is a unique blend of West African and English customs. In 2000, the Christmas tradition was revived during New Bern's annual Holiday Candlelight Tours.

Source:

Carolina Comments (NoCar F 251 C38), Vol. 49 Issue 2, Mar 2001, p25-26, il

Subject(s):

African Americans--North Carolina, Eastern--History; African Americans--Social life and customs; Jonkonnu (Festival)