Today in History: Zora Neale Hurston
Today in History–January 7–the Library of Congress features writer Zora Neale Hurston, born on this date in 1891. She grew up in Eatonville, Florida, the first incorporated black town in the United States. Trained as an anthropologist, Hurston documented life histories and folklore, later using what she learned to inform her novels and plays. Learn more about this Harlem renaissance woman by visiting the Today in History section, then click the links below for related primary sources.
The Zora Neale Hurston Plays at the Library of Congress
“Proposed Recording Expedition Into the Floridas” essay by Zora Neale Hurston
Zora Neale Hurston historical newspaper coverage
More Zora Neale Hurston folklife audio recordings
Literary Birthday Celebration: Zora Neale Hurston streaming webcast
Library blog posts
- Zora Neale Hurston Dramas Library of Congress blog March 13, 2017
- Preserving Songs and Culture: Zora Neale Hurston and the Federal Writers’ Project Teaching with the Library of Congress June 4, 2015
- No Depression Features Zora Neale Hurston Folklife Today April 13, 2020
- LISTEN: Zora Neale Hurston Performs Folk Poetry and Song from her Native Florida From the Catbird Seat February 28, 2014