The Back of Town

Posted by Unknown On Wednesday, November 13, 2013 2 comments
A boy was born in a poor neighbourhood of New Orleans, known as the "Back of Town".

His father abandoned the family when the child was an infant.

His mother became a prostitute and the boy and his sister had to live with their grandmother.

Early in life, he proved to be gifted for music and, with three other kids, he sang in the streets of New Orleans and his first gains were the coins that were thrown to them.

A Jewish family, Karnovsky, who had immigrated from Lithuania to the USA, had pity for the 7-year-old boy and brought him into their home.

Initially given 'work' in the House, to feed this hungry child. Then he remained and slept in this Jewish family  where, for the first time in his life, he was treated with kindness and tenderness. When he went to bed, Mrs. Karnovsky sang him a Russian Lullaby that he would sing with her.

Later, he learned to sing and play several Russian and Jewish songs.

Over time, this boy became the adopted son of this family.



The Karnovskys gave him money to buy his first trumpet; as was the custom in the Jewish families, they sincerely admired his musical talent. Later, when he became a professional musician and composer, he used these Jewish melodies in compositions, such as St. James Infirmary and Go down, Moses.


The little black boy grew up and wrote a book about this Jewish family who had adopted him in 1907.



In memory of this family and until the end of his life, he wore a star of David and he said that it is in this family that he had learned "how to live real life and determination. ''



This little boy was called Louis Armstrong.





What a wonderful world!!!

Thanks to Mr LYK for sharing this post.



2 comments to The Back of Town

  1. says:

    Unknown Hi, gd morning, very touching and inspirational indeed - and many label ALL Jews as Zionists1
    I thank Allah Almighty for the lovely Lithuanian Jewish family who embraced Louis Armstrong and made him welcome as one of his own. And for that charity the world owe him the beauty of a Music prodigy in the Great LA.
    Today is 10th Muharram, Asura for Muslims. Thank you, maam (and the one who shares so many useful pieces) for giving me a sobering start.
    Have a good day!

  1. says:

    Unknown Dear Saudara Shakirin

    Terima kasih atas komen saudara.

    Very inspiring response.

    It is a pleasure to pass on stuff which other people have shared with me ..I only hope this light will be passed on to brighten the hearts of others...

    Take care and thank you for taking time to write.

    Have a wonderful day and keep healthy!!

    Salam

Related Posts with Thumbnails
.