Robert Nelson Johnson Family – 1890

RN_Arletha Johnson

RN_Arletha Johnson
Rev. Robert Nelson and Arletha Johnson, circa 1950’s. 

The July 31 edition of the Robesonian captured one of several annual caravans, family members who went North during the great migration, returned home to visit.  These trips were done Green Book style, few places to get food, and even fewer places to stay.  These annual pilgrimages were dangerous, but necessary to maintain the ties that bond.

Annual pilgrimage from Buffalo Johnsons
Note members of the Johnson and McMillan families in this caravan from the North.  The McMillan family is another storied Black family from the Rex community.  

Another report from the same year documents more visitors from the North.  The article wraps up by mentioning that the regular weekly service at New Bethel Baptist Church was held, with the Rev. J.P. McNair as pastor.  The message was delivered by his pulpit associate, our very own Rev. R.N. Johnson.

Rex Negro News Sep 1958