The Case:
The titles on a 78rpm record startled our contributor, Jan Hazel of Tennessee. The A-side reads “The Bright Fiery Cross,” and the B-side reads “The Jolly Old Klansman.”
She came across the collection of 1920s records which came with a Victrola phonograph she bought at an Indiana antique store. The record sleeve is stamped with an Indianapolis address and the name “AMERICAN RECORD SHOP –All K.K.K. Records.” Jan has never heard of K.K.K. Records. She asks History Detectives host Tukufu Zuberi to track down the story behind this record.
The Bright Fiery Cross Lyrics
Read the full song lyrics here:
Related Links
Explore
-
Related Investigation
WPA Mural Studies
Are these unusual paintings part of the biggest job creation program in America's history?
-
Also in Emerging Modern America: 1890-1930
Isleton Tong
Was this building a safe haven for persecuted immigrants, or a hub for organized crime?
-
Also in Season 10
Chief Black Kettle
Are these war spoils of a Cheyenne chief?
-
Related Investigation
Lincoln Letter
Does this cryptic letter reveal Abraham Lincoln's secret strategy for winning political power?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
1856 Mormon Tale
Is this tattered book a true account of female slavery in the old West?
-
Also in Season 10
WWII Patch
What is the story behind these patches?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.