Are you ready for the summer heat? Parishioners at St. Joseph’s A.M.E. Church in Durham us

Are you ready for the summer heat? Parishioners at St. Joseph’s A.M.E. Church in Durham used these hand fans to stay cool during hot summer services in the early 20th century. The fans were illustrated with scenes from the Bible and images of African American life. The backs featured advertisements for the Black-owned businesses that were an integral part of Durham’s Hayti District. #durham #durhamhistory #hayti #localhistory #summer (at David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library)