LUZERNE COUNTY, Pa. — This is a piece of history and we're not just talking about the drums.
Dr. Walter D. Palmer is a renowned activist, author, performer and that's just the start of his story throughout his 90 years of life.
Now his stories will stay on the shelves for generations of students to come through Penn State Hazleton's Center for Multicultural Engagement.
Elaine Maddon Curry, of the Hazleton Advisory Council made sure Dr. Palmer had a spot on the shelf.
"We wanted these books, these treasures and believe me they are treasures. We wanted them to be where they would be most appreciated. Where the students would be able to see the real history of the United States, of race relations." said Curry
Dr. Palmer's work has revolved around civil rights and documenting important moments in history, performing alongside black leaders of America including John Coltrane and Jessie Jackson.
"Dr. Palmer has achieved a lifetime of awards and recognition and has amassed over one thousand medals, plaques, trophies and certificated of acknowledgments." said Eliazbeth J. Wright, Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer.
Now he's sharing his story with others.
"Well I'm hoping what they'll be able to do is that history is only made when you make it. Reading other people's history is fine, but the reality is that's just an example of what you can do by making your own history." said Dr. Palmer.
He's one of the first authors in the Multicultural Center's library.
"When I hear of Dr. Palmer's stories I kind of just think of the fact that we all kind of go through struggles and to hear that he can prosper through it so immaculately and give us these books to kind of help us to be able to know possible steps of how to advocate for ourselves is just amazing." said Jennifer Johnson Roper, Student Government Association Sustainability and Diversity Chair.
Another page written in his story in history.