Motorists driving on Gravette streets in recent weeks have probably noticed pairs of “golden shoes” dangling from power lines where they were evidently thrown by someone who wished to make a statement.

Whether tossed by young or old, the shoes do make a statement, probably not the one intended but rather about an old African American minstrel song that was composed during the late 1800s.

That song, “Oh, dem Golden Slippers,” was written in 1879 by James Alan Bland, an African American musician and songwriter.

Its words, in three long verses and chorus, reflect deep and poignant feelings. The first verse begins, “Oh, my golden slippersam laid away....” and continues with words about a wedding day, a chariot and “an old grey hoss.”

The second verse is equally very descriptive. It paints a picture, “Oh, my ole banjo hangs on de wall....” and ends with words about “What a great camp meetin’ der will be dat day....”

Finally, in verse three, Bland writes, “So, it’s good bye, children, I will have to go whar de rain don’t fall or de wind don’t blow” and ends with the chorus, “Oh, dem golden slippers ... dey look so neat ... Ise gwine to wear to walk de golden street.”

According to biographical information, Bland was a self-taught musician who composed more than 600 songs, the most famous ofwhich is “Carry Me Back to Old Virginny.” It was the state song of Virginia for more than 50 years until 1997. Hence, it is even more well-known than “Golden Slippers.”

So ... did the person who tossed gold painted tennis shoes (golden slippers) across power lines in Gravette realize they invoke a reference to a period of history in American life? Are they just an advertising gimmick, a gang or drug sign, or are they just a teenage prank?

One thing is certain: They do attract attention.More importantly, they are frowned upon by power companies since anything that affects such lines is potentially hazardous. And, besides, if a shoestring should break, could one of those golden shoes become a missile and crash through the car windshield of a passing motorist?

That would be quite a Golden Slipper message.

Dodie Evans is editor emeritus of the Westside Eagle Observer.

Opinion, Pages 6 on 07/20/2011