As Black History Month transitioned into Women’s History Month, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff helped preserve a piece of American history through its University Museum and Cultural Center.
On Feb. 20, UAPB accepted a framed photograph honoring Elizabeth Cash Green, a woman recognized by some historians and descendants as the last surviving formerly enslaved female in the United States. The photograph was presented to the University Museum and Cultural Center by UAPB alumnus and retired Lt. Col. Amos King Jr., Green’s great-grandson.
“The presentation reflects UAPB’s commitment to preserving historical narratives that deepen understanding of American history and African American heritage,” according to a news release.
Green was born on June 2, 1862, in Midland, Ga., during the final years of American slavery. In 1882, she relocated to Arkansas, settling near Elaine and Oneida in Phillips County before later moving to Helena-West Helena.
“Over the course of her remarkable 112-year life, Green witnessed some of the most defining events in American history,” according to the release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Her life spanned Reconstruction, the turn of the 20th century, World War I, the Elaine Massacre, the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927, the Great Depression, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement.
Despite the historical changes surrounding her, Green remained rooted in faith, family and community. After moving to Helena-West Helena, she joined Beautiful Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where the Rev. J.W. Webb served as pastor. There, she served on the church’s Mothers’ Board until her passing on Feb. 20, 1975.
According to family and community members who knew her, Green lived an active life well past 100, continuing to cook, clean and participate in church and community activities. She was married twice and raised three children.
King often reflects on the life lessons she shared with him.
“She told me there are two things I should never forget,” King said. “Never take anything that does not belong to you, and if the Lord is for you, then who can be against you?”
King noted that not many people can say they were raised by someone who was once enslaved.
“Not many people can say they knew someone who was born into slavery,” he said.
Green is buried in Oneida Community Cemetery.
A special program honoring her life was held at Beautiful Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Helena-West Helena, where she worshiped for decades. More than 100 attendees gathered to celebrate her legacy through reflections, music and fellowship.
Community outreach helped ensure the program reached a wide regional audience. A radio commercial promoting the event aired through Mondy Broadcasting, owned and operated by Elijah and Belinda Mondy of Helena-West Helena. Their station, KJIW-FM 94.5, has served the Mid-South region since 1991 as a Christian gospel radio station.
UAPB alumnus Ivan Whitfield, president of the Pine Bluff Chapter of the NAACP, served as master of ceremonies for the program and reflected on the significance of the moment.
“It was an honor to stand in the presence of history,” Whitfield said. “To witness this photograph presented in my hometown and in the church where Mother Green served was deeply meaningful. I’m grateful that Chancellor Anthony Graham welcomed this piece of history to UAPB, and I believe the university and community will be blessed under his leadership.”
Additional tributes were shared throughout the program. Pine Bluff Councilwoman and UAPB alumna Yvonne Denton presented the occasion, while Green’s great-granddaughter, Laura Willis-Shirley, shared reflections on her life. Musical selections were performed by Marg Lucas-Pointer.
Denton described the experience as moving.
“One of the most touching moments for me was hearing her great-grandson, retired Lt. Col. Amos King Jr., share the history, lessons, and quotes his grandmother instilled in him,” Denton said. “Listening to him speak, knowing that four generations were present, was truly moving. It was a beautiful reminder of how faith, strength, and perseverance can carry through a family line.”
Family members traveled from near and far to attend the program, which concluded with a fellowship dinner.
During the ceremony, King presented the framed photograph of Elizabeth Cash Green to UAPB for preservation and educational use. Mary Hester-Clifton, UAPB director of communications and a Helena-West Helena native, accepted the photograph on behalf of the chancellor, Vice Chancellor George Cotton Sr., the executive cabinet, and the University Museum and Cultural Center.
Carla F. Bryant, director of the UAPB University Museum and Cultural Center, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to preserve the historical legacy.
“Thank you again for sharing the legacy of your great-grandmother, Elizabeth Cash Green, and this important moment in history with UAPB,” Bryant said. “We are honored.”
The program also received support from Beautiful Zion Missionary Baptist Church, its pastor Danny Robinson, Evelyn Akinboboye for catering and the Eliza Miller Museum.
“Preserving stories like that of Elizabeth Cash Green reflects UAPB’s mission as an 1890 land-grant institution committed to education, research, outreach, and service that respond to the social and cultural needs of the communities it serves. Through the work of the University Museum and Cultural Center, UAPB continues to document and share historical narratives that educate students, strengthen communities, and ensure that the experiences of those who shaped our nation remain visible for future generations.
“By preserving Green’s story, UAPB not only honors the past but also advances its role as a steward of history — connecting scholarship, community engagement, and cultural preservation in ways that inspire learning and understanding for generations to come,” according to the release.
