J-Macs Journey

Four Generations of Birthdays - Celebrating Life - Celebrating Memories

2011-09-30T19:07:00.004-04:00

Looking at the September Birthday's, it's a celebration of life, and memories of four generations of my family who share a common thread. Mother, Daughter, Granddaughter, Great Granddaughter and Great Great Granddaughter is the relationship in this maternal generation line (all females) who have birthdays this month.

Happy Birthday ladies. To my mom and grandmother we love and miss you; Happy Birthday.

We Remember: 10th Anniversary of 911.

2011-09-11T20:42:00.000-04:00

Remembering all on this day 9/11. My ♥heart & prayers✞ go out to you.

A typical a.m. conversation with my daughter on her way to work in NY...the phone lines dropped. She was in the WTC area heading for her subway ..the feeling of not knowing, panic, the expressions on faces of ppl, silence. The joy of hearing her voice later was truly a blessing. I can never forget that day in time. God Bless!

Preserving History : Union High School for African American Children

2011-08-17T23:38:00.004-04:00

Preserving the history of Union High School once a segregated school for African American Children in Caroline County, Virginia is a project that Marion Woodfork Simmons has written a book about. The book will take you from its early years up to the time Union High School closed their doors. A lost memory now brought to life.

Marion is a fellow genealogist and researcher that I had the pleasure of talking with at the onset of researching my own family history over the years. She has been a valuable resource to many people researching families in Caroline County, Virginia. Her website provides helpful links and other information including the journey in documenting her family history.

When I rec’d Marion’s email with an update on her project, I was in "awe" of the data she’s collected. This information/memorabilia is housed on her website; Woodfork Genealogy.

As I started reading and perusing through the document, I knew that this was something that people needed to know about. I contacted Marion to ask about posting her story. She said "Sure….please share."

"The preservation project of Union High School," by Marion Woodfork Simmons, is a must read. This initiative is one of many that she has poured her time, effort and heart into. Her goal is to have the book available later this year.

Kudos Marion…Keeping history alive page by page!

Wordless Wednesday: What Typos Can Do: Murteen (Baylor) Hill

2011-07-20T23:59:00.005-04:00

One typo can make a world of difference especially in the genealogy world. A recent visit to NJ led to the discovery of the burial site of my great aunt Murteen (Baylor) Hill.

On the way to another family member's gravesite, I checked back with the office to see if Aunt Murteen was buried there. In the past, I was always told there was no record of anyone by her name in their files.

The Discovery

The Cemetery office file was recorded as: Musteen Hill

Headstone read: Murteen Hill
(the correct spelling of her given/first name)

Aunt Murteen passed May 12, 1952 of diabetes in Newark, NJ. This information was recorded in a family Bible, and on record at the cemetery.

The cemetery personnel were very helpful in finding her grave. If it wasn’t for being persistent, following up, and asking questions, her gravesite may still be unknown.

Her name has been corrected on the cemetery records for future generations to come.

The journey continues……

Fathers Day Tribute: William H. Perry

2011-06-20T00:29:00.001-04:00

Reflections of family, celebrating a legacy; my dad William (Hamp) Perry. Honoring your memory on this day...Happy Father's Day. I know that you are watching and guiding me on this journey in life.

We Love You - R.I.P.

Our Vocalist - Talented She Is: Mary Baylor Buie

2011-04-12T23:29:00.000-04:00

As I started to write about another family member for this post, I changed my mind and decided to write about my Aunt Mary.

Aunt Mary loved listening and singing gospel music. Although her fame was not known to the world, she was known for her beautiful soprano voice in church choirs that she belonged.

During my research process, people have commented to me about her voice. They would say “your aunt had some voice”, “oh she could sing”, what a voice”; I would just smile. I would hear her sing a few notes around the house, however, I didn’t realize the true gift/talent she had until I saw her sing in church. I’m certainly glad that I had the opportunity to see her sing; a time that I’ll never forget; Thanks mom for guiding me to that moment; a memory of a lifetime.

Last year I was given a gift. It was her voice on tape. I converted it over, and now have the digital version. A treasure, a voice lost, a recaptured memory.

Mary L. (Baylor) Buie or Lizzie/Buie as some called her was born in Port Royal, Virgina April 12, 1934. She was my mom’s sister, and the daughter of Ruth Baylor and Charlie Vaughan. She passed in December 2001.

A few songs that Mary would sing were: Take Me Back, and He Decided To Die. She had the voice of a songbird. We had not one, but two tremendous vocalists in the family, Aunt Mary and her 1st cousin, Sarah Vaughan.

The story continues...

Moments Given & Moments Taken: My Journey

2011-04-03T18:34:00.007-04:00

Looking back over the past year, I reflect on the journey taken in researching my lineage. The excitement and rush that one feels as you get closer to unraveling the mystery of a who’s who is like reading a novel, and you just can’t put it down. You’re looking for more information. You say to yourself, “ maybe it’s on the next page”…sometimes you’re in luck and sometimes you're not. Like a goldmine, you may or may not strike it rich. However, with each stone that you come across, each page that you’ve turned there is something to be learned. It may be who the neighbors were, family medical history, their lifestyle, the character of an individual, or just history in general.

The accomplishments have been rewarding, fruitful, joyful and educational. When a family member gives you that hug, and say; “Thank You, I knew that I had family out there. The Lord sent you my way”. The feeling of knowing how you’ve changed someone’s life is overwhelming for them and for me.

Resources and connections have been most helpful whether it’s the library, Internet, fellow genealogist, history centers/societies, friends and just family. Each one teach one!

Through it all, you get to know YOU. What I have given to others and what I have taken and learned for myself - I wouldn’t take nothing for this journey now!

Below is a list of families that I’ve connected with over the last few years; some as recent as last month. Most are direct connections, or links to branches of the family.

Connections:

Gladys Mae Jackson Baylor (Father: Marshall Baylor) Gresham (Caroline County, VA)

Baylor Family(Caroline County, Virginia) Vaughan (VA, NJ, CA)

George/Clark/ Coleman Family (GA, NJ, SC, CA) Hodge Family (AL, SC, NJ)

Sistrunk/McMillion (AL, CT/NJ) Jackson (VA, MD,)
Perry (GA, AL, VA, NJ) Warren (VA, NJ)
Wadlington/Ross (VA, DC, NJ) Sanders /Wiggins (FL, AL)
Smith/Stovall/Stringer (Al, GA, ) McClendon/Hays (GA, AL)

Is there a common thread? Yes, all from the South, migration path is the same; more discoveries to come. Pray On:

Thanks to all,
The "Griot" in training – Journey On!)

Traditional Sunday: Hamp - (Memories of Dad)

2011-03-13T23:57:00.007-04:00

Sunday morning breakfast cooking, and gospel music playing, was a tradition in my house. I find myself doing some of the same traditional type things that my parents did when I was a child. Now I get to share these with my grands. “Hey grandma, can you fix me some grits?”; gospel music playing on the radio, spending time with family...it's tradition, I guess.

When I reflect on this memory, I think of my dad, known to most people as Bill or Hamp; we just called him dad. Born in Cedar Springs, Early County, Georgia, the oldest of eight children, Bill cherished family values. He was married to my mom for 43 years (both deceased); he was a very humble man, husband, father, and grandfather.

We were in the house when the streetlights came on, saying our prayers and in bed before 9:00p.m. When the commercial "Do you know where your children are?" came on, yes, he did! We were in bed. About every other Sunday we spent time at the beach with family and friends. My dad worked in the tire industry all his life, not a person of wealth, but a heart of gold. He had a secondary education, a self taught learner, who lived life to the fullest. I picture images of dad smiling, smoking his cigars, and wearing his sunglasses.

Memories:

I do believe in some way dad played a role in taking care of his younger siblings, making sure the family had food, clothing and shelter. His brothers would always check in with Hamp to make sure he was doing ok...bringing things or just sitting and talking.

Whenever dad got a new car (new to us), he would take the family out for a ride. He loved the Grand Prix, which is what he usually got. Even my brother purchased the same type of car when he started to drive

My cousin’s would say “Uncle Hamp could sure box.” He loved to watch the boxing matches, and I even recall him shadow boxing from time to time.

Everyone loved his fried chicken. Can’t give the recipe away..o;) Believe it or not, I think the same pan he used to cook in is still around.

Dad would always bring fruit (especially grapes) and groceries to the house for his grands. He would pick them up and drop them off at school. This was his exercise – living life and enjoying family.

My dad William H. Perry Aka Hamp/Bill: Dance With My Father Again

Reflective Monday - Sonny

2011-02-21T09:11:00.000-05:00

As I reflect today, I couldn’t let this month go by without recognizing my brother, William “Sonny”. A month of celebrating black history, and my family’s history; for we all have giants, who have played a role in some part of our lives – in family.

Sonny the 2nd child of four siblings knew about family. When I started this journey, we conversed on some of the discoveries that I came across. We talked about my first connection with our Baylor relatives in Virginia, to the census records listing our ancestors. He would laugh; I could see his smile over the phone. I called upon him for his knowledge, he would listen and say, “yes I remember that person” or, express an interest in those that he did not know. He would say, “How are they related? Let me know what you find out.”

He provided me with family photos of our grandparents, my siblings, and even me. We would laugh…reminiscing on our childhood days.

Sonny would be proud of where the journey has taken me so far. I know that he has followed the path, and is right there beside me saying, “well done.”

Encouragement, Inspiration, Mentor, the giant with a big heart “Sonny”. We love, and miss you. Dedicated to you: I Wanna Thank You.

R.I.P.

February 15, 1953 - January 24, 2008

Connecting Cousins: Frankie Mae's 10th Child

2011-02-18T23:32:00.006-05:00

The beauty of family is a treasure in itself. In connecting with relatives, the valuable contribution they offer can help unravel/answer questions that you've been stumbling with; certainly me.

My paternal side of the family is and has been challenging in tracing this part of my lineage. As mentioned in my post from 2/6, I've been fortunate to connect with my cousin Dale who has shared, and enlightened me with many relatives that I didn't know about. Dale has taken time to put a name with a face from her family albums. She has lots of photos. Dale said to me, "these are ALL your cousins." We've talked several times on the phone and through other forms of media. A real sweetheart, I can't thank her enough for sharing and taking the time with me that she has. I'm trying to catalog this information--it's so many people.

Through this connection, I find another family member who is also researching the George lineage. I hope to connect with them soon so we can collaborate on our family research.

As family always gathered, told stories, reminisced whether on holidays or just a visit.. we had good times. What would the ancestors say today if they could see the generations that have come up through the years.

At this time, I share with you Dale's story on family. Our journey continues. Welcome cousin Dale, Frankie Mae (George) Clark’s 10th child. http://odomcamp.webs.com/index.htm

We Are Blooming

2011-02-06T23:59:00.007-05:00

This year seems to be starting off on the right path with my genealogy research. I've connected with several family members that I haven't seen or talked to in years.

New Year's eve, as I was shutting my computer down, I received a friend request from one of my 1st cousins on the Hodge side of the family. It was the son of my father's sister. A smile came across my face, and I just said, "WOW." I contacted his sister, and we talked for quite some time. The family was in the process of planning a Hodge - George family reunion. More family to connect with - Yes!!

During the following weeks, I made contact with another relative my cousin, Dale. She is the 10th sibling from a family of 11 children. This would be the George side of the family (my paternal great-grandmother's surname). As quoted from my cousin Dale "This side of the family alone together can truly fill up a baseball field." To date, my parents would have 34 grands, 53 great grands and 6 great great grands."(this is just one decendants family; my cousin Dale's)

So, now the blooms are starting to blossom. The journey continues.......

I Remember Mom In A Special Way: Happy B'Day Mom (Rebecca)

2010-09-12T23:56:00.004-04:00

I remember mama in a special way is how the song goes (Shirley Caesar)

From Sam Cooke's, "We're Having A Party" to Rev. F C Barnes, "The Ruff Side of The Mountain" mom is always with me. The memories are everlasting. These were a few songs that I remember my mom listening to - I picture her smile, and smile back.

Some of my memories of mom: She was known as Becky/Rebecca to others buy she was mom to me. She liked to collect shells at the beach. She didn't go far in the water, just knee deep. On Saturday's while cleaning mom would listen to music. She would dance around the house snapping her fingers, we would be sliding up and down the waxed floors. (lol "Good Times")

Sunday's was the Lord's day in our house like most others. Gospel music would be playing while getting dressed for church. Even when mom got sick, she wanted to see the cornerstone laid at church. So, my brother drove her to church that Sunday, she watched from the car at the ceremony, and saw the parade of church members dressed in gold/white march into church. It was something that she did not want to miss.

She enjoyed life, family and especially her grands. If she could see them now - how they have grown. But we know that she is looking down on us with smiles of joy. Love You!

During this journey into my family genealogy, I've learned a lot about my mom's side of the family. I've made connections with family members that I didn't know, we've had two reunions, and we've developed a strong family bond with one another. I know my mom would be proud of me.

Thank God for memories.

Photo collage made with Smilebox

Happy Birthday: Elaine

2010-08-23T22:31:00.002-04:00

In memory of my sister on this day, August 23. A Birthday that is never forgotten. ♥

1956 - 1993

We Love You!

Tombstone Tuesday: Sarah's Flowers

2010-08-10T23:48:00.006-04:00

My cousin and I visited the cemetery where several family members are laid to rest. She was placing flowers on her grandparents graves, and for some reason one set of flowers didn't want to go in. We tried and tried, but they wouldn't stay. She asked me if I wanted to put the flowers on Grandma Sarah's grave, and I said "YES".

In memory of my great grandmother, Sarah Ann Baylor. You are always remembered.

Wordy or Wordless Wednesday: Is It True

2010-06-30T23:59:00.001-04:00

Grandma, is it true that there were signs saying colored and white only? This was my question for today. I found these old newspapers while going through things in the basement today. Is it true?

A Legacy of Freedom - Life Lesson's for Grand's Girls

2010-06-12T00:08:00.006-04:00

Breath of life, smiling faces of my grandchildren, and seeing them grow is my freedom. I think back on my life as a child, fruitful, nurturing, loved – well rounded. Family was the center of my world. Like my parents, I have watched the children grow. Exposed to a diverse culture, much different from my childhood, it has not hindered their ability to learn, to go places, or to excel in anything that they “choose” – select freely.

My mom came to school one day because I was hit with a ruler. (No, not my child! Lol) Mom didn’t play. Well, I came to find that the voice can be a powerful thing. Equality should be the same, though often it’s not. Therefore, one must stand up and speak up, be active in the daily lessons of life to ensure that the playing field is equal. Freedom – our children should have the same opportunity as any other child. We can’t just let things happen.

One summer my dad drove a friend and his family down to Daytona Beach, Florida. I went with them on the trip. I’ve always remembered the stopover at a motel someplace in the South. The adults said we have to stay at the “Colored Motel” – why couldn’t we stay at the other one? What freedom means to me is that there are no barriers or restrictions in life’s journey, and each generation thereafter.

We talk about many things, inquisitive little minds; my granddaughter had a school project on Thomas Jefferson, everything under the sun; his political life, family, you name it, we talked about it, even the slaves he owned – our rich African American Heritage. We can never forget where we came from, and what our family endured. The freedom our ancestors didn’t have, but what we have today – Freedom because of them.

Given the tools of encouragement, nurtured with love of family, mentoring, self awareness, faith and hope, they will have the same freedom that I do. The ability to make our own choices, the family heritage of love and support that cannot be taken away. Be in charge of our destiny. Be in control of our lives – our freedom!

~To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others – Nelson Mandela~

You Look Like Mother: Aunt Anna

2010-06-08T22:58:00.001-04:00

You Look Like Mother

Aunt Anna

Her children - and; even her niece, Aunt Mae called her "mother." Anna Perry (Williams) Bey, a woman from the Southeastern Wiregrass states of Florida/Georgia, migrated to Newark, New Jersey in the early 1900’s. The youngest sibling out of six children, Aunt Anna was an independent woman whose motto was “To Always Have Your Own” – and strive to obtain it. She met her husband Charles Williams in Newark, and had her first child Harry at the age of thirteen.

Bey’s Hand Laundry at 80 Morton Street in Newark, New Jersey, was both the home and business of Aunt Anna and her husband Uncle Charles. They lived on the third floor during the 1940 – 1950’s while operating their “OWN” hand laundry. The motto paid off – they were business owners.

Aunt Anna didn’t live far from my family; actually, she lived right behind us. I would go to her house all the time; she lived on the lobby floor of the Stella Wright Projects. During those days you could walk almost anywhere you wanted without anyone bothering you. She would come to the house all the time. I remember seeing her walking toward the house; I would run to meet her. She would sit with mom and my Aunt Mae at the kitchen table, and they would just talk for hours or so it seemed – it was our normal family visits. We were all so very close to one another.

Aunt Anna’s family was of the Moorish American Faith. At an early age, they were devout followers of the Moorish Americans: practice, way of life, and raising their children. I remember times when they would have their "fish fry’s" at the Temple where they worshipped. She worked for the Hall of Records for many years until she passed away. I remember going to visit her at St. James Hospital; unfortunately, on that day she had passed away.

Growing up as a child and throughout the years, my cousins (Aunt Anna’s daughters’) and even Aunt Mae would always say, “you look just like Mother.” On a visit with my cousin last summer, there was a picture on the mantle of people standing outside a house. They were dressed in Moorish American fashion. My cousin Euniece pointed her mother out to me. When I got back home, I had washed my hair and wrapped it in a towel. Just so happens I saw “Mother” in the mirror. I said to myself: Wow, I do look just like their mother. What a strong resemblance of the Anna as a young girl, and me today.

As they say, there is someone else that looks or has a strong resemblance of you. I guess this trait is in the “Genes” and was surely passed down from the ancestors.

~Peace~

Tombstone Tuesday: Family Memorial- Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery

2010-06-01T23:37:00.002-04:00

I walked the cemetery of Shiloh Baptist Church, in Port Royal Virginia with family that I met. There was a memorial plaque placed in the church cemetery. As noted on the plaque, "In memory of those buried in the old section of Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery."

This was my first visit to the family cemetery. Several of the family names listed on this plaque are related to me. Their date of births are as early as 1862, one being my great grandmother Sarah Ann Baylor.

Some of the headstones you couldn't read. You wonder who is the person buried, how old is the headstone. Through research, I now see the connections of some of the families listed on this plaque.

~Rest In Peace~

Monday Madness: Mail Call - Sarah's Death Certificate

2010-05-17T23:54:00.007-04:00

It's a bad rainstorm, and I'm waiting to check the mail as I've done for the past week. I sent away for my Great-Grandmother's death certificate a few weeks ago. Anxious and curious to know what it would reveal, it finally arrived today.

I quickly opened the document and looked at the names of Sarah Ann's mother and father. I said to myself, "this can't be correct, they must have sent me the wrong document." Who is Smith?

I looked down further, and saw a woman's name that I recognized. It was my aunt Alberta, the person listed as the informant. I kept looking at the surnames listed on the death certificate "Smith", and wondering to myself, who are these people?

The death certificate listed Sarah's husband John, and her mother with the same last name "Smith." It listed her father with the last name Baylor, which is correct. However, his first name is a little different. Close but not what I knew. Maybe a little investigation is needed.

I do believe there is a mistake in the last name being Smith. It should show the Surname "Sale" for Sarah Ann's Mother, and Jackson is the surname for Sarah Ann's Father. All other documents that I have correspond with the surname Sale and Jackson. Maybe Alberta didn't know who their natural father was. Who knows why the names were/are incorrect.

Questions: Did Sarah Ann marry twice, and was her 1st husband a "Smith?"
Was Sarah Ann's fathers name Toliver, Oliver or Taylor?

"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, the future is a gift."

I can now pass another piece of my lineage onto our future generation.

Surname Saturday: George from Georgia - 1870 Census

2010-05-16T00:08:00.011-04:00

I wrote about my George lineage in an earlier post (April 10). I stated then, I knew there were links to the family still in Alabama, and their contributions were welcome.

I made contact this week with someone that is possibly linked to my George lineage. I learned of other names that linked back to Stephen; siblings Cornelia, Hettie and Lucinda "Lucy' George. Excited to finally piece together another missing link in the George lineage! However, we now have two 1870 census records. Which one is correct? Was Stephen from the Blakely/Cedar Springs or Savannah/Chatham, Georgia? Is there possibly two siblings with the same name? That appears to be the naming pattern. Which path do you take?

Stephen George, my paternal great-grandfather was born in Georgia abt 1855. He migrated to Alabama between 1870 and 1880, as indicated on the available census records. (1880 - 1920) Below is a snapshot of Stephen George's family prior to his migration to Alabama.

Treasure Chest Thursday: Life's Journey - Coming Home

2010-04-22T23:21:00.004-04:00

To finally meet your family that you’ve never known is a treasure in itself.

After leaving VA as a small child to return “eighty” years later – yes “eighty”, is a joyous occasion. Ms. Gladys, my uncle’s daughter met the family she never knew for the first time this week. They visited the church cemetery where several family members are laid to rest, her father and the brother both who she never knew.

The treasure of memories shared, tears of joy to not only meet some of the family she didn’t know, a discovery was made which was truly heartfelt, and guided by the ancestors.

At the cemetery, Ms. Gladys’s daughter-in law happened to look down at one of the headstones she was standing next to. It was the gravesite of Ms. Gladys’s grandmother. Truly an overwhelming experience, because she didn’t know her grandmother was buried in VA, she always thought her remains were in NJ.

The family had lunch together, toured the area, and just talked – so many questions. I will get a chance to meet her soon in the next few months. To help make the connection is one of the jewels within my treasure chest that rewards you in this journey of life. Simply stated by Ms. Gladys, “It had to be the Lord – I knew I had to have other family.” Welcome home Ms. Gladys!

2010-04-18T21:52:00.019-04:00

I was reading through some of my blog post, and found this treasure; " Ancestor Approved Award from Mavis of Conversations With My Ancestors. I was truly surprised, and most humbled by it. There are so many recipients of this award already, so you may be getting this again. Mavis, thanks for thinking of me, and sending this award my way.

The rules of this award specify to list ten things I've learned about my ancestors that have surprised, humbled, or enlightened me. As the recipient I will pass the award to ten other genealogy bloggers that are doing their ancestors proud.

Surprised:

Making my first live connection with my Baylor lineage - the foundation for building my family tree.

Humble and excited to meet my “Baylor” relatives – an everlasting bond that we wish would have come sooner. They say to me, “ why didn’t we know about you before, we are never going to let you go.”

Finding Family – a treasure in itself. Seeing how my family tree has blossomed from its first entry up until now.

Having both maternal and paternal family connections at the same time. Great breakthroughs, especially on my paternal side of the family one of the hardest to gather information on.

Humble and excited to receive an image of my grandmother Ruth Baylor when she was a teenager, and other siblings of hers. (the oldest one being over 100 years old)

Humble:

To help plan, and speak at the first family reunion about the research process, and our family history.

All the contacts I’ve made from the start of my Journey researching my family history. (family members and genealogy connections)

To be the family storyteller – a gift passed on from my ancestors

Helping others connect with family – Ms. Gladys’s daughter in-law made a promise to find out who her father was. (abt. 20 yrs of research) Through her connection with me, the promise was fulfilled. My great uncle Julius was her father, someone she never knew. New edition to the family. (She’s actually coming back to her birthplace Pt. Royal, VA next week. First time since she left as a child. She is now in her 80’s.

Enlightened:

Learning things about my great-grandmother Sarah Ann Baylor, who I never knew. She was a milliner making bonnets as told by one of my research sources.

I’ve been enlightened to learn that my family was one of several that lived on the property known as A.P. Hill in Caroline County, VA. This is land the U.S. Government took over in 1941. All families were required to relocate, as well burial grounds being moved off the property.

Passing it on to ten others.

We Tree

My Ancestors Name

Reclaiming Kin

Our Family As A Whole

Our Alabama Roots
Taneya's Genealogy

In Honor of Our Ancestors

Small Leaved Shamrock

All My Branches

Gen Wish List

Carnival of African American Genealogy, 2nd Edition: Grandma’s Hand ~ Ruth Baylor ~ Great Day

2010-04-11T01:00:00.013-04:00

Great Day it is to honor my maternal grandmother Ruth Baylor. This was also one of her favorite terms. She is the only one of my grandparents that I knew, one of seven siblings, who migrated from Virginia to New Jersey during the early 1900s.

Grandma Ruth was a kind, nurturing, hard-working, and loving grandmother. She traveled for several years with her youngest daughter the wife of an Army soldier. So, she got around and saw the States.

After settling down to civilian life, my grandmother lived with us for a while – this is when I really got to know her. What a time we had. She called me Jo, and always lived right next door to my family. She was tall and a classy dresser. Grandma had this fur wrap/stole with faces at each end that I was so afraid of. Among other things that she had was this gold/mustard color trunk she used in her travels. I would love to go through the trunk with her and look at the things she had. One of the many treasures she had in the trunk was this small circular figurine with a turtle in it. It would turn around like a compass, and I loved to play with it.

Grandma and I would catch the bus to go downtown shopping all the time. Her head was adorned with kerchiefs as they called them. We would have lunch at Woolworth’s. The two of us sitting at the lunch counter – me turning around on the stool – looking at the big menu, deciding what I wanted to get. Grandma Ruth would let me have a “Strawberry Ice Cream Soda” (this became my favorite for many years). The two of us would walk around from store to store (that’s probably where I get my shopping habits from). She would get a few things, and we would head back home. One of the things I remember getting was a dark green suede coat. She managed to get the coat for me from the small salary she made.
Boy, was I lucky to have a grandmother like her.

My grandmother did what was known as day’s work/housekeeper. I went with her one time to be interviewed for an assignment. At this house, a little boy said; “She Has Brown Ears.” He was referring to me. She was a live in-housekeeper for two families that I recall: the Singer’s and Krueger’s of South Orange, NJ. I was glad to see her come home on the weekends. I had my grandmother back.

As a little girl, I would sit on the bed and count the money she would receive in tips from working as an attendant handing out towels in the woman’s restroom at Thomm’s Restaurant/Catering in NJ. The money was wrapped in a handkerchief. She was a hard worker – Grandma’s Hands. She would say “Thirty-five cents will break you out the habit.” (whatever the amount was she would add it to her phrase) In other words, if you want it, you need to earn it. Nothing is given to you – you have to work for it.

Grandma Ruth liked to make “French Fryers” as she called them. She loved baseball; her favorite team was the Mets. My brother was Grandma’s heart. I could here her calling him: “Son” short for Sonny the only boy in the family. She would talk about Ms. Chandler from the soap operas. Around Christmas holidays, she would play Nat King Cole and even some Elvis Presley music.

Grandma Ruth would tell you in a minute “Don’t step on my feet.”
She had problems with her feet; it was probably from standing all the time. She would say, “I’m going to the foot doctor,” and I would go with her.

During the latter years of Grandma Ruth’s life, we would help her around the house from food shopping to cleaning. She would make sure that we brought her Dial soap, the gold bars. This is the only one she liked to use. I too buy Dial soap from time to time now and think of Grandma. I combed her hair sometimes, part down the middle and two cornbraids. She was able to do for herself, but I always liked combing her hair.

My grandmother lived to the age of seventy-nine, a fruitful life filled with love of family. Over the years one can collect a lot of things. She had these old coins; I don’t know where she got them from or the significance of them. Because, they date back to early 1800, maybe it was her way of knowing where she came from and what the family went through.

I think back on the life of my Grandmother especially while researching my family lineage. She was ageless and timeless – a classic. She is saying, “Lord have mercy Jo – you have done some work - Great Day!”

Sept. 1907 - Nov. 1986

I know that you are smiling down on me.
~Jo~

Surname Saturday: George

2010-04-10T21:35:00.010-04:00

My “George” lineage is from Henry/Houston, County Alabama and Georgia. This is a small snippet into the paternal side of my family. My great grandparents were:

Cealy (Celia, Selie, Sealie) George – B: abt 1858 in Haleburg, Al
Stephen (Steave) George – B: abt 1853 in Georgia

Stephen and Cealy were married in 1879. The 1900 Census states they are were married for 21 years. My great grandparents had eight living children. (Between the 1900 and 1910 Census, it shows thirteen children, and only eight living.) Children: Jolina or Lauine, (B: 1879), Max (B: 1884), Leaman (B: 1882/1886)) Evey (B: 1889), Vinsey (B: 1888), Stephen (B: 1890/1894), Appietine (B: 1897), and Burdeshard (B: 1899)

*Appietine (Appie) was my grandmother. From what I was told by a relative, she passed away about the age of 36.
Facts about the George Surname. Ancestry - Surname Learning Center

I know there are links to the family still in Alabama. Your contributions are welcome.

Finding Family: Jackson

2010-04-09T00:00:00.003-04:00

On the pathway of finding family, you sometimes come to a fork in the road. You have to make a decision which path to follow. I say this because, I made that choice last night.

I found someone searching my great-grandfather 's name, John Jackson. Since I saw no other information ( no family tree or profile) I wasn't going to contact them. I thought about it for a few minutes, and came back to the contact information. I sent the person an email not exptecting a response - just curious.

Later in the evening, I received a response back. We passed information back and forth today. It appears that individual is the grandson 3x's removed of my great grandfather John Jackson.

I only knew my great grandfather's name. Through my research, is where I found his history. Another piece of the puzzle falls into place.

~Family Found~

Sentimental Sunday: Aunt Mary - Songbird

2010-04-04T21:31:00.016-04:00

What better day to pay tribute to my moms sister, Mary Baylor Buie. Aunt Mary was a sololist in the church choir. My mom said to me "you should hear your aunt sing." She will be singing on Easter Sunday. The Easter Sunday that I heard her sing, I was blown away. I was so proud of her. She sung "He Decided To Die". Truly an unforgettable moment for me.
~I know that you are singing in the heavenly choir~

When Jesus hung on Calvary, people came from miles to see
They said, If you be the Christ, come down and save your life
But Jesus, sweet Jesus, never answered them
For He knew that Satan was tempting
If He had come down from the cross, my soul would still be lost
If He had come down from the cross, my soul would still be lost
He would not come down from the cross just to save himself
He decided to die just to save me

April 1934 - Dec 2001

Treasured Memory: Reflection of Mom

2010-03-25T23:26:00.002-04:00

My mother wrote a letter to my daughter while she was in the hospital. Even though she was dealing with her own illness – she wanted to make sure everyone is doing ok – a mothers’ love. My mom passed away the year after she wrote this letter. The first time I came across the letter it stunned me. It’s a time that I’ll never forget. The letter was written on a paper towel. Reading the letter is like hearing her voice, a reflection in time. Below is an excerpt from the letter.

Dear Tooty,

What’s new with you? How was Thanksgiving – did you get enough to eat. I had some of Denise’s Dinner too. It was very good. I was so full I couldn’t go to sleep.

I don’t have any news from here. Are you helping mommy around the house? Is Mr. Beasley, being a good boy – kiss him for me.

I was so very glad to see you yesterday. It was a big surprise. Say a big prayer for me so I can come home. I love you.

- Becky

Great Aunt: Mertieen Baylor Hill

2010-03-18T00:14:00.011-04:00

My Great Aunt Merteen or "Teen" as she was referred to. I don't know much about her. She raised my grandmother's daughter "Mary." I recently found some information on her in an old family Bible. (retrace your steps) She appears to be dressed in a uniform. (This might be a Church Usher's uniform - Circa 1900's.)

January 1897 - February 1952

So Close But Yet So Far

2010-03-13T00:04:00.004-05:00

The barriers that you run into can sometimes be discouraging. People seem not interested in the past, their lack of responsiveness, and not sharing information is hard to understand. This is just a temporary roadblock in the genealogy research process.

About a year ago, I made contact with someone who researched a name that can possibly be a link to the owners of my ancestors. It was the lineage of her ex-husband. Their family name appeared on The Freedman’s Bureau Marriage Register from 1866. Their name showed as “Last Owner" of my ancestors (Baylor).

The researcher had put a book together with her findings for her husband. This was great news…however, she was divorced from him, and was no longer interested in his family lineage. So, she could not help me. However, an act of kindness displayed on her behalf was to provide me with his email address. I sent this person an email, but never received any response. So close!

You cannot let this roadblock end your journey. You pick up and forge ahead for surely, another door will open.

In writing this post, I went back to the message I received from the researcher. (over a year ago) I went down a different path, which may open the door for me. The family has not one tree, but two other connections on Ancestry. One of them refers to a Census record that I discussed with another family member recently. There was a story written on one of my surnames (Baylor).

It’s good to go back, retrace your steps - Let’s see where this path takes me.

Journey On!!

Black History Month 2010

2010-02-27T18:52:00.011-05:00

As we come to a close for what is known as Black History Month, a few notables from my family history.

We celebrate our history 365 days a year by the treasures that we find, and memories that are shared with one another. A true celebration acknowledging who we are, where we came from and where we are going. Like roots on a tree, the branch will grow if you feed it.

Special people in a special month. February Birthday wishes to all geana guys and gals.

Sonny - My brother ( decd. Jan. 2008) Happy B'Day - You are not forgotten!

Denise and Brya - Happy B'Day ladies (Sis and Gd.) Our Future:))

History - Musical Legendary Diva

Sarah V. -She paved the way for other musicians coming up today - a true trail blazer.

For all family members that came before me - my ancestors. We celebrate YOU!!

Friday Earthday -52 Wks To Better Genealogy – Challenge 8

2010-02-26T21:55:00.008-05:00

I stumbled upon the 52 Weeks of Better Genealogy today. I'm taking an aim at this one - Challenge 8. Discover online map collections.

I've been looking for maps to visually display where my family/ancestors lived. The collections listed below are great. The links within these sites offer a vast variety of historical data, images, time periods (i.e. 1920 map), and you can access any State. I'm using the Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection from the University of Texas at Austin for now. Great tool - Thanks "We Tree" for the idea, inspiration, and "Geneabloggers" for the networking platform.

Other Map Collections:

The American Memory Collection at the Library of Congress,

The David Rumsey Map Collection

Wordless Wednesday: Cedar Springs Georgia

2010-02-24T22:04:00.017-05:00

Journey on - My Georgia roots go back to Cedar Springs, GA. I ran across a treasure chest of old photos depicting life in Cedar Springs, GA during the early 1900"s. My Great Grandfather Will Perry owned his own farm in this town. A General Farmer, he could not read or write as listed on the 1910 Federal Census. One of his son's George worked as a laborer on a "turpentine" farm.

Descriptive Title: Photograph of W.C. Sheffield's Store, Cedar Springs, Early County, Georgia, ca. 1900-1939?
Field Notes Cedar Springs, early 1900s. W.C. Sheffields' Store. Sold everything from coffins to schoolbooks. Buggies in front of the store were for sale. Site of present Cedar Springs Post Office

Title: [Photograph of laundry shelter, Cedar Springs, Early County, Georgia, ca. 1925-1930]
Date: 1925-1930
Description: "Cedar Springs, ca. 1925-1930. Laundry shelter. In the backyard of the Sheffield's. "--from field notes

Title: [Photograph of dipping rosin at the turpentine still, Cedar Springs, Early County, Georgia, 1938 Apr. 8]
Date: 1938
Description: "Cedar Springs, April 8, 1938. Dipping rosin at the (turpentine) still."--from field notes

Works Cited: Vanishing Georgia, Georgia Division of Archives and History, Office of Secretary of State

Tombstone Tuesday

2010-02-23T23:45:00.002-05:00

New Blog!! Our Family Genealogy

2010-02-20T23:33:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my family genealogy blog.