Historical marker placed at former home of David L., Jeanette Ross May
A historical marker in the front of the David L. and Jeanette Ross May home here was dedicated in ceremonies Wednesday afternoon.
Special guest Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser, who heads up the state tourism efforts, was on hand for the event, thanking “everyone for supporting this incredible effort.”
Nungesser called Crowley a “special community” and said the historical marker “will be a highlight for the many people that will visit in the future.”
Mayor Tim Monceaux opened the afternoon ceremony by recognizing the many city officials on hand “for this historical event.”
The home, located at 576 N. Western Ave., was entered into the National Register in 2019 because of its association with the lives of its previous owners, David L. May and Jeanette Ross May, who were prominent African-American citizens, involved in a number of civic, educational and religious organizations for many years.
In 1980, the Mays were recognized by the Crowley Chamber of Commerce as Outstanding Citizens of the Year.
Henry Clement and wife Margaret are the current owners/occupants of the home where, as a boy, Henry Clement was taught piano by Mrs. Jeanette May.
In 1970, Clement’s career in education and music took him to Oakland California. But he kept his promise to his parents to return to Crowley and purchase the May home.
His goal was to restore and preserve the home.
The plaque reads:
“David L. May and Jeanette Ross may, husband and wife, were prominent African-American citizens of the City of Crowley, Louisiana. They began a life-long commitment to the community in the 1920’s, and in 1980 were named Crowley’s Outstanding Citizens. Mr. and Mrs. May’s achievements were numerous as educators, entrepreneurs, and political, civic and religious leaders.
“David May was one of the first two African-Americans elected to a City Council (Crowley) in the State of Louisiana. Jeanette Ross May was a teacher, girls’ basketball coach and choir instructor at Crowley’s Ross High School. The school’s choirs became well known throughout the state for their superior performances under her direction.
“Together, the Mays were a team in business with the Peoples Investment Company of Crowley in their faith at Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. May faithfully served his church as Superintendent of the Sunday School and Chairman of the Board of Deacons, and Mrs. May was dedicated to the music and missionary departments for over 80 years.
“The home’s current owners, Henry and Margaret Clement, have preserved it as a symbol of the importance of education, pride and dignity, and as a reminder of the contribution of David and Jeanette Ross May, inspirational African-American citizens of Crowley.”
For the Wednesday ceremony, Bishop James Proctor delivered the invocation with Father Mark Odoguje giving the benediction prior to the unveiling of the marker.
An outdoor reception followed.