Cole, Melvin Sevareide. The Bolivar Oral History Project. Cole’s interview for the Bolivar Oral History Project was conducted in conjunction with the Bolivar Archeological Project’s community engagement efforts. Cole shares his thoughts on the archaeological excavation at the Tom Cook Blacksmith Shop and of Black history, in general. He and his interviewer and longtime family friend, Howard Clark, discuss racism and growing up in Southeast Denton, including how they spent time with their childhood friends outside of school. Cole and Clark recall various neighbors who owned businesses in their community, and their experiences at Strickland Junior High School. A lifelong member of Mt. Pilgrim C.M.E. Church in Denton, Cole discusses the important role that his church plays in the community.