Black History Video Series Production in Fuquay-Varina
Telling meaningful stories is at the heart of what we do. When the Town of Fuquay-Varina wanted to preserve its Black history through film, we were honored to produce a six-part video series production that celebrates some of the community’s most important “firsts.” These videos became more than a creative project—they became a record of legacy.
Capturing Voices and Milestones on Film
Filmed on location at the Fuquay-Varina Arts Center, the series titled “Fuquay-Varina Firsts: Celebrating Black History” features eight speakers sharing their lived experiences and family stories. Framing each interview on a stage gave the footage a sense of gravity—connecting themes of culture, politics, education, and faith. The setting alone helped reinforce the message: these stories matter.
To enhance the storytelling visually, we alternated between wide and close shots, using a slider to add gentle motion. Each video began with a hero shot of the speaker, and we asked participants to bring a personal item—something meaningful, archival, or symbolic. These physical mementos brought additional texture to each interview, helping viewers connect with the emotion behind every word.
A More Human Interview Experience
To create a sense of intimacy, we used an EyeDirect device during our interviews. This tool helps interviewees look directly into the camera while still engaging naturally with the interviewer. For participants not used to being on film, it made the process feel more comfortable—and the result was genuine, direct, and deeply moving.
Story Highlights and Community Legacy
The video series includes stories from:
- Mayor Blake Massengill, who introduced the project.
- Forrest Newkirk, the first Black volunteer firefighter in town.
- Ralph Joyner, who spoke about the history of Fuquay Consolidated School.
- Sherrelldine Perkins and Arone Brown, sharing memories of their father, the town’s first Black police officer.
- Pastor Nathaniel J. Wood, whose church was the first Black church in Fuquay-Varina.
- Carl Trice, representing Trice Funeral Home, the longest-running Black-owned business in town.
- Billy and Scooby Freeman, who honored their father, the first Black man elected to the town board.
Each of these voices added a layer to the story of Fuquay-Varina. By incorporating personal items, music, and custom motion graphics, the final edits not only engaged viewers—they earned industry recognition and awards. Most importantly, they preserved essential pieces of the town’s history for future generations.
Want to create something that connects and endures?
Let’s make it unforgettable.
Forrest Newkirk spoke about his own experiences as the first Black volunteer fireman in the Fuquay-Varina Fire Department.
Ralph Joyner, Alumni Association President, spoke about the formerly segregated Fuquay Consolidated School.
Sherrelldine Perkins and Arone Brown spoke on behalf of their father James Brown, Fuquay-Varina’s first Black police officer.
Pastor Nathaniel J. Wood spoke about New Providence Missionary Baptist Church- the first Black Church in Fuquay-Varina- which is still in operation, under Pastor Wood’s leadership, today.
Carl Trice spoke about Fuquay-Varina’s longest-running Black-owned business: Trice Funeral Home.
Billy Freeman & Scooby Freeman spoke on behalf of their father William Freeman, the first Black elected official and the first Black man to serve on the town board of Fuquay-Varina.
