Abner Jean "Val" Jackson (Finding Aid)

Abner Jean "Val" Jackson

1933 - 2002

Favorite Color: Green

Favorite Food: Cabbage, Spinach and Ham Hocks

Favorite Time of Year: November and December

Interview Length: 80 minutes

Interview Date(s): August 30, 2002

Interview Location(s): Jackson Mortuary, Wichita, Kansas

Abstract

Abner Jackson begins this portion of the interview describing his family's history and how they arrived at settling in Wichita, Kansas. Jackson then talks about his grandfather's ability to learn the mortuary business with no formal training, and his business savvy in forming a company without relying on commercial loans. He then talks about the roles his parents, brother and wife play in making Jackson Mortuary a successful family-owned business. Jackson then recalls growing up in a segregated neighborhood and the black-run businesses that sustained it. Lastly, he talks about the pros and cons of being an identical twin. Abner Jackson talks about his early childhood working in his family's mortuary business. He then recalls attending a segregated school in Wichita, Kansas, and the corporal punishment administered at school and at home when he and his twin brother got into mischief. Jackson talks about his high school years and his negative attitude towards formal education. He later details his decision to follow a different career path than his father's by becoming a fireman and realtor. Abner Jackson then discusses joining his brother in running the family business after his wife's death and details what makes it successful. Lastly, Jackson talks about the pleasures of growing up in a tight-knit community and the long-term relationships he's maintained with some of his childhood friends. Abner Jackson talks about some of the funeral services that Jackson Mortuary provides, and briefly reflects on his life and career. Jackson details his other civic activities outside of running the family business. He then ponders his legacy, his parents' pride in his accomplishments and how he would like to be remembered. Lastly, Abner Jackson provides commentary to the photographs he has provided.

29 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)