The Barn: The Secret History of a Murder in Mississippi

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of graphic violence, death, child death, and racism.

On July 25, 1941, Till survived a difficult birth. His mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, named him after a beloved uncle. Called “Bobo” by his friends and family, Till grew up in Chicago and visited relatives in Argo, Illinois. His best friend was Wheeler Parker, Jr. Till had a big personality, gaining a reputation as a prankster and joker. Raised by his mother, he was close to her and to his grandmother Alma. 

In 1955, at 14, he was seeking independence and eager for adult responsibilities. At his request, his mother allowed him to pay her bills in downtown Chicago. At this time, that entailed carrying cash and visiting the shops where his mother had accounts. He carried out the task well. Since many know Till only as a symbol, Thompson emphasizes the individuality of Till to honor him as a person, placing special emphasis on these details of his personality.

In the summer of 1955, Moses Wright, Till’s great-uncle, visited family in Chicago. He would be taking Parker, his grandson, back with him to Mississippi. The plan was for Parker to spend time in the Delta before the school year began in Illinois.