Back in 2008 my publisher told me he was giving me a very important assignment. I was to photograph Stetson Kennedy. It wasn't only important because it was Mr. Kennedy but also because of his age this may be one of the last portraits taken of him.
Embarrassingly I have to admit, I didn't know who Mr. Kennedy was at the time. When I started to do my research on him I soon realized how important this man was.
He was an American author and human rights activist. He is the man that infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan in the 1940s and exposed it's dark secrets to authorities and the world. Surprisingly he had to fight to get the authorities to listen. Incredible.
When I met up with Mr. Kennedy he was very kind. I had to speak loudly and repeat my words as his hearing had just about disappeared. His face, hands and the clothes he wore showed the character of a man who has seen and experienced many things. He had me a bit wound up after telling me about this huge gator that always hangs out under the porch. The problem was the gator wasn't there and we didn't know where he was or where he'd pop up.
A few ago my publisher sent me an e-mail stating that Mr. Kennedy had passed away earlier that day. I was sad to hear this but was happy to see that he kicked around his paradise Beluthahatchee estate for almost another 2 years. His ashes were spread into these waters recently. I truly know how amazing this man was and the national treasure he is and know his spirit is alive within the waters of the Beluthahatchee.
Remembering Mr. Stetson Kennedy. October 5, 1916 – August 27, 2011
Daniel Goncalves Photography Have you been shot? Fotobia.com
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