A new documentary is shedding light on a powerful and rarely told story about Eugene, Oregon’s first Black community. Titled Across the Bridge: The Story of Eugene’s First Black Community, the film uncovers the lives of the Black families who once thrived along the banks of the Willamette River. For over 75 years, their story has largely gone untold, but now, with the work of reporter Tiffany Lewis and photographer Quinn Janes, the struggles and triumphs of these families are coming to the forefront.
The Legacy of Eugene’s First Black Community
The community once stood proudly in what is now Lane County, but in 1949, their neighborhood was demolished to make way for the construction of the Ferry Street Bridge. This event marked the end of the community’s existence in its original form, but the legacy of those who lived there continues to live on. The documentary explores how these families, despite facing harsh conditions and continuous hostility, managed to survive and maintain their close-knit bonds.
The documentary captures the enduring strength of these families. “Their resilience in the face of racism and hardship is a testament to the power of community and faith,” says Tiffany Lewis. Many of the Black families who lived there endured severe discrimination but found strength through their Christian faith, which became a central part of their daily lives.
The Hardships They Faced
The Black pioneer families of Eugene experienced more than just the threat of displacement. Their lives were marked by unrelenting racism and the challenges of living in a segregated society. From a young age, the children of these families faced obstacles that often seemed insurmountable. Yet, despite these struggles, they managed to foster a sense of unity and shared purpose that helped them overcome some of the darkest times in their history.
“Life wasn’t easy for them,” Quinn Janes explains. “They faced every type of injustice imaginable, but their faith and the bonds they created with one another helped them push forward.” The families supported each other, finding strength in their church communities, and in one another. This sense of belonging helped them to weather the storms of racial tension and poverty, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire today.
A Testimony to Faith and Resilience
Today, 75 years after the destruction of their community, Across the Bridge stands as a powerful reminder of the Black pioneers who once lived in the heart of Eugene. Their resilience, determination, and unwavering faith have left a lasting impact on the city. While their neighborhood no longer exists, their spirit is alive in the hearts of many who still remember the sacrifices made by the families who called that area home.
The documentary promises to give voice to the stories of those who lived through this difficult period, ensuring that their contributions to the city’s history are never forgotten. As we look back on their journey, it becomes clear that the true strength of Eugene’s first Black community was not just in surviving, but in how they thrived in spite of the many barriers placed in their way.
Across the Bridge is set to be an eye-opening exploration of what it means to hold on to one’s heritage, even when the world around you seeks to erase it.
