Children of the Levee

Set in 1870s Cincinnati, the narrative explores the vibrant African American culture thriving in the city, supported by commerce along the Ohio River. Young Lafcadio Hearn, a budding journalist, captures the essence of this community through twelve insightful sketches. His observations reveal a unique cosmopolitan tolerance amidst the roughness of levee life, providing a nuanced portrayal of post-Civil War African American experiences. These early writings not only document a significant cultural landscape but also hint at Hearn's future journeys across various regions.