When you think about which buildings deserve preservation in America, a formidable structure like the J. Coody Johnson Building probably doesn't come to mind unless you're versed in its rugged story. Built in 1910 in Wewoka, Oklahoma, by the tenacious J. Coody Johnson, this building stands as a testament to the principles of hard work and rugged individualism that some modern bureaucrats wish we’d forget. Johnson, an adopted citizen of the Seminole Nation and a former slave, rose to become an influential businessman and attorney representing many tribal members and their legal interests. It's a tale of grit that liberals might find rather inconvenient.
Here's why the J. Coody Johnson Building is more than just a brick-and-mortar relic. First, it’s a monument to entrepreneurship. A time when individual liberty and enterprise could transform a life from subjugation to success. Johnson harnessed the freedom found in America to bring prosperity not only to himself but to an entire community. This historical chapter didn’t count on government handouts; it relied on the ingenuity and enterprise of determined citizens.
Number two on our list is the cultural intersection this building represents. Here was a man of African-American and Native American heritage, operating successfully within the context of a society that wasn’t always welcoming. Today, we often hear the cacophony from cultural elites yearning for equality and diversity, painting pre-civil rights America solely as dark times. Yet, here's a story that defies such narratives and offers a beacon of what was possible through determination.
Number three: the building was not just bricks and mortar to Johnson. It was a foundation for justice, where he worked as an attorney to protect Seminole land and rights during a turbulent period of exploitative treaties and deals. This space was his headquarters to challenge entrenched interests, proof that justice wasn't—and isn't now—served on a plate by bureaucratic mandates, but through arduous battles by individuals who refuse to back down.
The fourth point to consider is how the building’s very existence highlights the promise of American land ownership. J. Coody Johnson may not have risen through the ranks of government nor awaited some bureaucratic bailout; he owned and built property, utilized and protected it to better his life and the lives of others. Land ownership is a critical part of the American dream, a fact that sometimes gets lost today amid soaring rents and growing urban centralization.
Number five reminds us of the building's symbolic resistance to societal oppression. Johnson weathered a legal landscape that was, at best, precarious for someone of his background, yet he prevailed and used his success to aid others in achieving the same. Johnson’s building casts a stark light on the opportunities available to those willing to seize them—something that flies in the face of defeatist attitudes some pundits want you to adopt.
Sixth, the economic boom it helped create in Wewoka is noteworthy. Johnson could have been content to live in luxury elsewhere, but he chose to invest back into his community. This creator of economic vibrancy laid the groundwork for local businesses to thrive, offering an archetype that should be revered, not obliterated by monolithic corporations.
Seventh, Johnson’s strategic location choice speaks volumes. He set up shop in Wewoka, the heartland of the Seminole Nation, skillfully harnessing its centrality and connectivity. The location wasn't just convenient; it was a deliberate move to stay close to the people he represented. The building’s placement speaks of a rooted commitment to community and values, principles essential for community-driven growth.
For our eighth highlight, let’s talk about the personal story of J. Coody Johnson himself. Rising from the son of enslaved parents to a respected attorney and businessman, Johnson epitomizes the classic 'rags-to-riches' story that underpins the American Dream. A stark reminder of what can be achieved through personal responsibility and resilience, not just institutional intervention.
Ninth, the architecture of the J. Coody Johnson Building serves as a testament of its time. Its sturdy, robust construction reflects the durability and perseverance of the man who built it. They don't make them like they used to—architecturally, or symbolically. The building symbolizes a period and a person in American history devoted to tangible outcomes, instead of fanciful ideations.
Finally, point ten speaks of legacy and preservation. Just as J. Coody Johnson held steadfast to the values of his time—personal responsibility, community life, and fighting for your legal ground—the structure remains as a symbol that history has value. This historical space is one to be honored, teaching respect, encouraging ambition, and emphasizing the power of individual action. Preserving such places isn't just maintaining history; it's respecting and curating essential American values that have facilitated progress and inspired generations.
For those of us who believe in the merits of hard work, integrity, and personal liberty, the J. Coody Johnson Building is not just a historic site to list under heritage architecture. It is a rallying cry for honoring America's potential. So, next time someone questions the viability of the American Dream, point to tales like J. Coody Johnson’s—a living reminder that grit and determination are irreplaceable assets in achieving success.