Vian Oklahoma
Our Roots: The Legacy of Jack and Katie Fields Brown
Welcome, family! As we gather to honor our past and plant seeds for the future, we turn our hearts to the incredible journey of our beloved ancestors, Reverend Jack and Katie Fields Brown. Their story is one of remarkable resilience, enduring hardship, and laying the foundation for the vibrant family we are today.
Reverend Jack Brown: A Pillar of Strength
Born in Alabama in 1823, Jack Brown’s early life was marked by the harsh realities of slavery, as recent findings indicate he was enslaved by Sequoyah Brown. While many details of his early life – his parents, siblings – remain a mystery we are actively working to uncover, what we do know paints a picture of an extraordinary man.
In 1867, Jack married Katie Fields, and together, they embarked on a pioneering journey. They founded the Mount Olive Baptist Church in Vian, Oklahoma, then still “Indian Territory,” where Jack became the first recorded Black ordained minister in Oklahoma. As a pastor, Rev. Jack Brown was a spiritual beacon, ministering to the local residents of eastern Oklahoma and Arkansas until his passing on February 21, 1892. His dedication to his community and his faith continues to inspire us.
Katie Fields Brown: A Woman of Mystery and Strength
Katie Fields Brown’s story is equally compelling, though shrouded in some mystery. While her records identify her as “mulatto,” family whispers suggest she was full-blooded Cherokee. Recent discoveries reveal she was enslaved by Meuta McCoy, adding another layer to her incredible journey.
After Jack’s passing, records show Katie lived with her son John and his wife, and/or her daughter Annie. Family lore suggests she may have eventually moved to Tulsa or Kansas. However, a fascinating clue emerged when Rev. Jack’s grave was relocated: not far from its new resting place lies another grave bearing the name Katie Brown, who passed away in 1915. Coincidence? We are determined to uncover the truth and gain greater historical clarity about our matriarch.
Enduring Hardship, Building Community
Together, Reverend Jack and Katie Fields Brown faced immense challenges. They endured the horrors of slavery, the upheaval of the Civil War, and the oppressive Jim Crow laws in the Southern United States and Indian Territory (Oklahoma). Yet, through it all, they emerged as prominent citizens in their community.
Prior to Oklahoma Statehood in 1907, the couple resided in Indian Territory. Rev. Jack Brown was an active participant in tribal life, voting in tribal elections and serving on the Cherokee National Lower Council for the Illinois District.
The VianBrowns of Oklahoma: A Rich Heritage
Jack and Katie (Kate) were blessed with eight children: Henry, Joseph (Joe), Johnny (John), Annie (Anna), Richard, Delilah, Fannie, and Claude Brown (who sadly died at birth). The Brown family was deeply rooted in their heritage, fluent in both the Cherokee language and English. They were active participants in local Cherokee Nation tribal community events, enjoying social gatherings such as pow wows and stomp dances.
We are proud to be The VianBrowns of Oklahoma, a family with a rich heritage as African American/Cherokee Freedmen.