Sandy's Legacy

Sandy holding a copy of Junaluska: Oral Histories of a Black Appalachian Community. Courtesy of the JHA

Sandra Hagler passed away on September 2, 2021, at the age of 73, but her legacy lives on, not only in her dear family, but in her work. Her service to the community by being the “neighborhood historian” and culture-keeper of Junaluska helped preserve Junaluska’s identity and provide a history of the community from their perspective. The JHA would not be where it is today without her efforts and passion for history. Her dedication to preserving Junaluska’s heritage and identity should inspire other underrepresented communities to preserve their own identity.