A birthday surprise for 'Voice of Lincolnville' -- Friends present Carrie Johnson a new, purple tricycle

Photo by Daron Dean

A birthday surprise for 'Voice of Lincolnville' -- Friends present Carrie Johnson a new, purple tricycle

By CHAD SMITH
chad.smith@staugustine.com
Publication Date: 03/01/09


The woman some affectionately refer to as the "Voice of Lincolnville" was left speechless Saturday.

When Carrie Johnson walked in to the St. Paul African Methodist Church, her mouth dropped open as she saw about 50 of her friends and neighbors who wanted to wish her a happy belated 74th birthday.

Johnson, known for her work as a community organizer, and her pink tricycle have for many years been institutions in Lincolnville and downtown, where she can be seen darting from place to place, waving to just about everybody she passes.

Her birthday was Feb. 20, but the party Saturday was a way to celebrate a woman who celebrates every day.

When she saw that she had been set up for a surprise party, her smile was as big as the purple hat she wore on her head.

She was brought nearly to tears when she saw the present they'd gotten her: a new, purple tricycle.

They wheeled it out, and Johnson gave out a big, "Ohhhh!"

In May 2007, a number of locals were incensed to learn her tricycle was stolen from the front of her Lincoln Street home. Before it was found and returned two days later, hundreds of dollars were offered as a reward, a testament to how beloved she is.

Former St. Augustine Mayor George Gardner came to the party, and current Mayor Joseph Boles sent her a letter for the occasion that read, "You spread joy and laughter everywhere and make the day a bit brighter wherever you go."

Johnson, who most call Miss Carrie, tried to express her gratitude the best she could.

"I cannot find the words, but I hope you know that I love you all."

Sitting atop her new trike, she spoke for a few minutes about the need for people to unite.

"We're all connected in this land," she said. "I am of African construction, but I am American."

Then she took a test lap around the hall, waving like always.


Click here to return to story:
http://staugustine.com/stories/030109/news_030109_053.shtml

© The St. Augustine Record