Robert Churchwell Sr. made history when he joined the original Nashville Banner as the city’s first African American reporter. The paper’s owner at the time, James Stahlman, opposed integration, but Churchwell made a name for himself anyway — even if he didn’t have a desk in the newsroom at first. Last week, a historical marker commemorating his accomplishments was unveiled outside the North Nashville magnet school that bears his name.
In this special episode, Robert Churchwell Jr. shares his memories of his trailblazing father’s career and life outside of work — where “he was always dad.” This interview was originally recorded as part of our premier episode…