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The Diamonds of West Virginia Project©

The Diamonds of West Virginia Project originated from a request by Nikon Ambassador Matthew Jordan Smith, to embark on my own personal project. Combining my love for photography, interest in African-American history, and pride in my great state of West Virginia, I decided to pursue a project that focused on inspiring African-Americans who have roots in West Virginia. They represent the fields of entertainment, religion, academic, law, journalism, military, and athletics.   
 
Documenting the portraits and stories of these amazing men and women has been nothing short of eye-opening. Along the way I have learned so much about West Virginia and West Virginians—especially African-Americans who have played a critical part in the history of the United States. Many have heard of Booker T. Washington and more recently Katherine Johnson, but few know of the Tuskegee Airmen and list of retired military generals who graced the hills of West Virginia.  
 
-Renee L. Ferguson

The Diamonds of West Virginia Introduction

The Diamonds of West Virginia" is a powerful storytelling project that captures the untold stories of African Americans with deep roots in West Virginia. Through captivating portraits, digital paintings, and compelling narratives, this book highlights their remarkable achievements in fields like entertainment, academia, religion, law, and the military. Join us on this journey to preserve and celebrate these hidden gems of history.

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Make visible what, without you, might perhaps never have been seen. 

  -Henri Cartier Bresson

James Jett

A world-class sprinter from Charles Town, West Virginia, James Jett lived up to his last name. At the 1992 United States Olympic Trials for Track & Field in New Orleans, he finished fifth in the 100-meter dash ahead of former world record holder Carl Lewis and future Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders teammate James Trapp.

Dawn D. Hester

Dawn D. Hester is a professional photographer who spent thirty-nine years working for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the Forensic, Scientific, and Technical field. Her travels have taken her and her camera right into the depths of the most horrific events to ever occur in the United States.

Earl Simms

Retired Brigadier General (1-Star) Earl Simms is a 1968 graduate of West Virginia State University (then College) and its historic Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program. Earl was the 2nd African-American officer appointed Adjutant General for the U.S. Army, a position that was once held by Major General Horatio Gates in 1775.

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