Larry JorgensenI was inspired to write "Solomon Northup: Hope Out of Darkness" because I had become curious about the Northup Trail after seeing historical markers erected throughout my home area. I have toured the trail many times, learning about Solomon Northup'stwelve years as a slave and how it all took place right here in Louisiana. In 2014, when the movie about his slavery won the Academy Award, I had the opportunity to share my research on his trail and photos to create a feature article that was published in several newspapers. During my decades of writing for newspapers, radio, and television, no other story made such an impact on me as I learned more about this important part of American history. When I heard of plans to create a sculpture and permanent memorial to Solomon Northup, I knew there remained much more to be told, and I hoped to share what I would learn during the statue's journey. As many speakers on that journey remarked, there remains much more to be done. Read More Read Less