Louisiana Lineage Legacies

Family and Research Trip

2011-04-11T11:10:00.001-07:00

Today, I am in Morehead City, North Carolina. The purpose of my visit is to reconnect with family as well as do family research. Since my arrival, we welcomed a new member of the family, my grand-niece, baby girl, Sellars. She is very beautiful and cuddly and is charming everyone who graces her presence already. On today's agenda was the Carteret College Library. I love this place. You can literally look out the window at the Atlantic Ocean view. What better way to cuddle up with a good book while occasionally gazing up at the blue on blue ocean and sky! During my trip , I will be making my way down to Robeson and neighboring Counties of North Carolina and then Charleston and Darlington county SC where Brayboy, Pressley, Jefferson, Hines and other family migrated from. Also, ancestral home of the Witherspoons and Henry Marshall whom I spoke about frequently in this blog. Anyway, hopefully this trip will help unravel many mysteries and answer lingering genealogical questions that I have had about my ancestry.

No April Fooling...1940 census due April 1,2012

2011-01-20T18:34:00.000-08:00

Just 436 days until the 1940 Census release date! On Sunday, April 1, 2012, the 1940 census will be released. There is a 72-year privacy mandate that will lapse at that time.

Heres what the form looks like. Click to view

In memory of Teena Marie-A True Silky, Silky Soul Singer

2011-01-02T11:26:00.000-08:00

About a week ago, my heart broke. It was when I heard the news that one of my favorite singers of all times passed away. The legendary, Teena Marie, born Mary Christine Brockert passed away in her sleep on December 27, 201o. I was shocked and saddened but not all together. It is because 2 days before her actual passing, I learned of the earlier passing of Marvin Isley. Upon learning this, I thought back to the last time that I seen the Isleys and remembered that it was in a sold out concert in Concord, CA with Teena Marie. Upon remembering this, a wave of saddeness came across me but for some reason my sadness was for Teena even though she had not yet passed yet. Strange but true.

Anyway, the world has lost a wonderfully gifted yet understated talent and heaven has gained a new angel to join the choir of all choirs. This woman had one of the most amazing voices that I have beared witness to! If any of you had ever had the pleasure of seeing and hearing her live, then you know exactly what I am talking about. Her recorded voice on albums and CD's although awesome too did not compare to her live voice! This woman had some pipes on her that could rattle wall and her high soprano notes could break the finest crystal glass.

Known as "Lady T," "Vanilla Child," and the "Ivory Queen of Soul," she ranked amongst the great female singer and her voice transcended race. She became well known for her work with Rick James who was one of her early mentors and their duet, "Fire and Desire," one of my favorites.

Bible Word of the Day

2010-10-20T19:43:00.001-07:00

Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong." Exodus 23:2 NIV

This is advice that has been dispensed by parents, clergy and educators and most importantly God throughout the generations and it still holds true today.

LOUISIANA PARISH COURTHOUSES

2010-09-04T15:41:00.000-07:00

Parish Courthouses in Louisiana can be invaluable for retrieving records pertaining to your family history. They often house and maintain records including but not limited to marriages, divorce, wills, conveyance records, bills of sale, property records. Below is a list of all the Parishes in Louisiana.

LOUISIANA PARISH OFFICIALS LIST Clerk of Court

Acadia
(01)
Hon. Robert T. "Robby" Barousse
P. O. Box 922
Crowley, LA 70527
Phone: 337 788-8881
Fax: 788-1048
Physical: Court Circle, 70527-0922

Allen
(02)
Hon. Gerald Harrington
P. O. Box 248
Oberlin, LA 70655
Phone: 337 639-4351
Fax: 639-2030
Physical: 400 W. Sixth Ave.

Ascension
(03)
Hon. Kermit "Hart" Bourque
P. O. Box 192
Donaldsonville, LA 70346
Phone: 225 473-9866 X 3
Fax: 621-8403
Physical: 300 Houmas St.
Gonzales Office: 225-621-8400

Assumption
(04)
Hon. Darlene Landry
P. O. Drawer 249
Napoleonville, LA 70390
Phone: 985 369-6653
Fax: 369-2032
Physical: 4809 Hwy. 1

Avoyelles
(05)
Hon. "Sammy" Couvillon
P. O. Box 219
Marksville, LA 71351
Phone: 318 253-7523
Fax: 253-4614
Physical: Courthouse, E. Mark St.

Beauregard
(06)
Hon. Ronald L. "Ronny" Nichols
P. O. Box 100
DeRidder, LA 70634
Phone: 337 463-8595
Fax: 462-3916
Physical: 201 W. First St., Courthouse

Bienville
(07)
Hon. James W. "Jim" Martin
100 Courthouse Dr., Rm. 100
Arcadia LA 71001-0746
Phone: 318 263-2123
Fax: 263-7426
Physical: same

Bossier
(08)
Hon. Joan Carraway
P. O. Box 430
Benton, LA 71006
Phone: 318 965-2336
Fax: 965-2713
Physical: 200 Burt Blvd.

Caddo
(09)
Hon. Gary Loftin
501 Texas St., Rm. 103
Shreveport, LA 71101
Phone: 318 226-6780
Fax: 227-9080
Physical: same

Calcasieu
(10)
Hon. Horace Lynn Jones, II
P. O. Box 1030
Lake Charles, LA 70602
Phone: 337 437-3550
Fax: 437-3350
Physical: 1000 Ryan St., 70601

Caldwell
(11)
Hon. Eugene Dunn
P. O. Box 1327
Columbia, LA 71418
Phone: 318 649-2272
Fax: 649-2037
Physical: 201 Main St., Ste.1

Cameron
(12)
Hon. Carl E. Broussard
P. O. Box 549
Cameron, LA 70631
Phone: 337 616-8847 (temporary)
Physical:

Catahoula
(13)
Hon. Janet T. Payne
P. O. Box 654
Harrisonburg, LA 71340
Phone: 318 744-5497
Fax: 744-5488
Physical: Courthouse Square, Rm. 101

Claiborne
(14)
Hon. James Patrick Gladney
P. O. Box 330
Homer, LA 71040
Phone: 318 927-9601
Fax: 927-2345
Physical: 512 E. Main St.

Concordia
(15)
Hon. Clyde Ray Webber, Jr.
P. O. Box 790
Vidalia, LA 71373
Phone: 318 336-4204
Fax: 336-8777
Physical: 4001 Carter St., Ste. 5

DeSoto
(16)
Hon. Ollie L. "Sonny" Stone, Jr.
P. O. Box 1206
Mansfield, LA 71052
Phone: 318 872-3110
Fax: 872-4202
Physical: 201 Texas

E. Baton Rouge
(17)
Hon. "Doug" Welborn
10500 Coursey Blvd., Ste. 200
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
ATTENTION: Election Dept.
Phone: 225 389-3960 (City)
Fax: 295-4750 (Coursey)
Physical: same

E. Carroll
(18)
Hon. Edna Bishop Brock
400 First St., Courthouse
Lake Providence, LA 71254
Phone: 318 559-2399
Fax: 559-0037
Physical: same

E. Feliciana
(19)
Hon. Debbie D. Hudnall
P. O. Drawer 599
Clinton, LA 70722
Phone: 225 683-5145
Fax: 683-3556
Physical: 12305 St. Helena St.

Evangeline
(20)
Hon. Walter Lee
P. O. Drawer 347
Ville Platte, LA 70586
Phone: 337 363-5671
Fax: (ROV ofc.) 363-5780
Physical: 200 Court St.

Franklin
(21)
Hon. Ann Johnson
P. O. Box 1564
Winnsboro, LA 71295
Phone: 318 435-5133
Fax: 435-5134
Physical: 208 Main St., Courthouse

Grant
(22)
Hon. J. ElRay Lemoine
P. O. Box 263
Colfax, LA 71417
Phone: 318 627-3246
Fax: 627-3201
Physical: 200 Main St.

Iberia
(23)
Hon. "Mike" Thibodeaux
P. O. Drawer 12010
New Iberia, LA 70562-2010
Phone: 337 365-7282
Fax: 369-2928
Physical: 300 Iberia St., 70560

Iberville
(24)
Hon. J. G. "Bubbie" Dupont, Jr.
P. O. Box 423
Plaquemine, LA 70765
Phone: 225 687-5160
Fax: 687-5260
Physical: 58050 Meriam St.

Jackson
(25)
Hon. Ann B. Walsworth
P. O. Box 730
Jonesboro, LA 71251
Phone: 318 259-2424
Fax: 395-0386
Physical: 500 E. Court

Jefferson
(26)
Hon. Jon A. Gegenheimer, Elections Dept.
1221 Elmwood Park Blvd., Ste. 603
Harahan, LA 70123
Phone: 504 364-2900 (COC)
736-6394 (Elections)
Fax: 736-8738
Physical: same

Jefferson Davis
(27)
Hon. Carlton L. Duhon
P. O. Box 799
Jennings, LA 70546
Phone: 337 824-1160
Fax: 824-1354
Physical: 300 State St.

Lafayette
(28)
Hon. Louis J. Perret
P. O. Box 2009
Lafayette, LA 70502
Phone: 337 233-0150
Fax: 291-6392
Physical: 800 S. Buchanan, 70501

Lafourche
(29)
Hon. Vernon H. Rodrigue
P. O. Box 818
Thibodaux, LA 70302-0818
Phone: 985 447-4841
Fax: 447-5800
Physical: 309 W. Third St., 70301

LaSalle
(30)
Hon. Steve H. Crooks
P. O. Box 1316
Jena, LA 71342
Phone: 318 992-2158
Fax: 992-2157
Physical: Courthouse St.

Lincoln
(31)
Hon. Linda Cook
P. O. Box 924
Ruston, LA 71270
Phone: 318 251-5130
Fax 255-6004
Physical: 100 Texas Ave.

Livingston
(32)
Hon. Thomas "Tom" Sullivan, Jr.
P. O. Box 1150
Livingston, LA 70754
Phone: 225 686-2216
Fax: 686-1867
Physical: 20180 Iowa St.

Madison
(33)
Hon. Carolyn Caldwell
P. O. Box 1710
Tallulah, LA 71282
Phone: 318 574-0655
Fax: 574-3961
Physical: 100 N. Cedar St.

Morehouse
(34)
Hon. Carol Jones
P. O. Box 1543
Bastrop, LA 71221-1543
Phone: 318 281-3343
Fax: 281-3775
Physical: 100 E. Madison, 71220

Natchitoches
(35)
Hon. "Louie" Bernard
P. O. Box 476
Natchitoches, LA 71458-0476
Phone: 318 352-8152
Fax: 352-9321
Physical: 200 Church St., 71457

Orleans
(36)
Hon. Desiree M. Charbonnet 1340 Poydras Street, 4th Floor
New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504 592-9330
Fax: 592-9192
Physical: same

Ouachita

(37)
Hon. "Bill" Hodge
P. O. Box 1862
Monroe, LA 71201-1862
Phone: 318 327-1444
Fax: 327-1462
Physical: 300 St. John St., 71201

Plaquemines
(38)
Hon. Dorothy M. Lundin
P. O. Box 40
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Phone: 504 297-5180
Fax: 297-5195
Physical: 301 Main St., Suite 108

Pointe Coupee
(39)
Hon. Lanell Swindler Landry
P. O. Box 86
New Roads, LA 70760
Phone: 225 638-9596
Fax: 638-9590
Physical: E. Main St., Courthouse

Rapides
(40)
Hon. Carolyn Jones Ryland
P. O. Box 952
Alexandria, LA 71309
Phone: 318 473-8153
Fax: 473-4667
Physical: 701 Murray St.

Red River
(41)
Hon. Stuart Shaw
P. O. Box 485
Coushatta, LA 71019-0485
Phone: 318 932-6741
Fax: 932-3126
Physical: 615 E. Carroll St., 71019

Richland
(42)
Hon. Ramona N. Haire
P. O. Box 119
Rayville, LA 71269
Phone: 318 728-4171
Fax: 728-7020
Physical: 100 Julia St.

Sabine
(43)
Hon. Dollie Moore Knippers
P. O. Box 419
Many, LA 71449
Phone: 318 256-6223
Fax: 256-9037
Physical: Capitol & Main Streets

St. Bernard
(44)
Hon. Lena R. Torres
P. O. Box 1746
Chalmette, LA 70044
Phone: 504 271-3434
Fax: 278-4380; (CALL FIRST)
Physical: 1100 W. St. Bernard Hwy., 70043

St. Charles
(45)
Hon. Charles J. Oubre, Jr.
P. O. Box 424
Hahnville, LA 70057
Phone: 985 783-6632
Fax: 783-2005
Physical: 15045 River Rd.

St. Helena
(46)
Hon. Beverly A. Gordon
P. O. Box 308
Greensburg, LA 70441
Phone: 225 222-4514
Fax: 222-3443
Physical: Courthouse Square, Hwy. 10

St. James
(47)
Hon. Edmond E. Kinler, Jr.
P. O. Box 63
Convent, LA 70723
Phone: 225 562-2270
Fax: 562-2383
Physical: 5800 La. 44

St. John the Baptist
(48)
Hon. Eliana Olivier DeFrancesch
P. O. Box 280
Edgard, LA 70049
Phone: 985 497-3331
Fax: 497-3972
Physical: River Rd. & E. Third Streets

St. Landry
(49)
Hon. Charles Jagneaux
P. O. Box 750
Opelousas, LA 70570
Phone: 337 942-5606 X 103
Fax: 948-7265
Physical: Court & Landry Streets

St. Martin
(50)
Hon. Allen Blanchard, Sr.
P. O. Box 308
St. Martinville, LA 70582
Phone: 337 394-2210
Fax: 394-7772
Physical: 415 S. Main St.

St. Mary
(51)
Hon. Cliff Dressel
P. O. Drawer 1231
Franklin, LA 70538
Phone: 337 828-4100 X 200
Fax: 828-2509
Physical: 500 Main St., Courthouse

St. Tammany
(52)
Hon. Malise Prieto Becky
P. O. Box 1090 Galatas Covington, LA 70434 809-8723
Phone: 985 809-8700
Fax: 809-8725
Physical: 701 N. Columbia St., 70433

Tangipahoa
(53)
Hon. Julian E. Dufreche
P. O. Box 667
Amite, LA 70422
Phone: 985 748-8015
Fax: 748-6503
Physical: Mulberry & Bay Streets
Hammond Office: 985-549-1638

Tensas
(54)
Hon. Ernest Sikes
P. O. Box 78
St. Joseph, LA 71366
Phone: 318 766-3921
Fax: 766-3926
Physical: Courthouse Square

Terrebonne
(55)
Hon. I. Robert "Bobby" Boudreaux
P. O. Box 1569
Houma, LA 70361-1569
Phone: 985 868-7113 Elections Fax: 868-8166
Physical: 400 E. Main St., 1st Flr., 70360

Union
(56)
Hon. Sue Buckley
100 E. Bayou St., Ste. 105
Farmerville, LA 71241
Phone: 318 368-3055
Fax: 368-3861
Physical: same

Vermilion
(57)
Hon. Diane Meaux Broussard
100 N. State St., Ste. 101
Abbeville, LA 70510
Phone: 337 898-1992
Fax: 898-9803
Physical: same

Vernon
(58)
Hon. Willie Deon, Jr.
P. O. Box 40
Leesville, LA 71446-0040
Phone: 337 238-1384
Fax: 238-9902
Physical: 215 South 4th St.

Washington
(59)
Hon. Johnny D. Crain
P. O. Box 607
Franklinton, LA 70438
Phone: 985 839-7821
Fax: 839-3116
Physical:Courthouse,Main & Washington

Webster
(60)
Hon. Holli W. Vinning
P. O. Box 370
Minden, LA 71058-0370
Phone: 318 371-0366
Fax: 371-0226
Physical: 410 Main St., 71058

W. Baton Rouge
(61)
Hon. Mark J. Graffeo
P. O. Box 107
Port Allen, LA 70767
Phone: 225 383-0378
Fax: 383-3694
Physical: 850 Eighth St.

W. Carroll
(62)
Hon. Kay S. Bolding
P. O. Box 1078
Oak Grove, LA 71263
Phone: 318 428-2369
Fax: 428-9896
Physical: Courthouse, Main St.

W. Feliciana
(63)
Hon. Felicia Ann Daniel Hendl
P. O. Box 1843
St. Francisville, LA 70775
Phone: 225 635-3794
Fax: 635-3770
Physical: Ferdinand & Prosperity Streets

Winn
(64)
Hon. Donald E. "Don" Kelley
100 Main St., Rm. 103
Winnfield, LA 71483
Phone: 318 628-3515
Fax: 628-3527
Physical: same

http://www400.sos.louisiana.gov/comm/ucc/coc-list-ucc.pdf

Louisiana Public Libraries

2010-09-03T18:33:00.000-07:00

Louisiana Public Libraries are an excellent resource for tracing your family history. Most of the libraries offer genealogical resources including free assess to normally paid websites such as Ancestry.com. However, most require that you perform your search at the Library and not from home or elsewhere.

To view a list of the Public Libraries in all of the Louisiana Parishes, you can click the following link or assess by clicking on the link on the right sidebar.

http://www.publiclibraries.com/louisiana.htm

LDS Family History Centers in Louisiana

2010-09-03T18:06:00.000-07:00

Below is a list of Family History Centers in the State of Louisiana. Family History Centers are branch facilities of the Family History Library in Salt Lake City. Centers provide access to most of the microfilms and microfiche in the Family History Library to help patrons identify their ancestors. Everyone is welcome to come to the centers and use Family History Center resources. It has been an invaluable resource for tracing my family history. .

1)Alexandria Louisiana
611 Versailles Blvd
Alexandria, Rapides, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 318-448-1842
Hours: T 6pm-8pmW 6pm-8pm; Th 9am-1pm;Closed: 2 weeks over Christmas & New Years.Attention: Contact Helen Sanders @318.201-9391 for special appts.

2)Baker Louisiana
4901 Harding St
Baker, East Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 225-775-0383
Hours: T-Th 9am-1pm, 6pm-9pm; Sat by appt onlyClosed: Closed November 23-25; December 21-27th .

3)Baton Rouge Louisiana
10335 Highland Rd
Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 225-769-8913Hours: T 1pm-4:00pm; Th 4pm-7pm; Sat 9am-12 noonClosed: Closed December 22, 2009 to January 4, 2010.

4)Denham Springs Louisiana
25367 Riverton Ave
Denham Springs, Livingston, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 225-664-8979Hours: T-W 9am-12pm, 6:30pm-9pm

5)Gonzales Louisiana
502 Hwy 30
Gonzales, Ascension, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 225-644-0581Hours: T 9am-1pm; T-W 6pm-8pm

6)Iberia Parish Library
445 E Main
New Iberia, Iberia, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 337-373-0079Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:30am-8pm; Fri, Sat 8:30am-5:30pm; Sun 1:30-5:30Attention: Microfims from the Church can be ordered at this Library

7)Lafayette Louisiana
116 E Bluebird Dr
Lafayette, Lafayette, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 337-984-7182Hours: T 9am-12pm; 7pm-9pm W, Th 7pm-9pm;

8)Monroe Louisiana
909 N 33rd St
Monroe, Ouachita, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 318-322-7009Hours: Th 12pm-4:30pm;Closed: Thanksgiving Week & 2 weeks for Christmas

9)New Orleans Louisiana
5025 Cleveland Pl
Metairie, Jefferson, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 504-885-3936Hours: Tue:, Wed:, Thurs:, Sat: 9am - 12noon, Tue:,Wed: 6pm-9pmClosed: Closed Major HolidaysAttention: Wed pm Spanish & English

10) Opelousas Louisana
300 Plantation Rd
Opelousas, St Landry, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 337-942-8081Hours: by appointment

11) Ruston Louisiana
205 West Woodhaven Road
Ruston, Lincoln, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 318-255-8379
Hours: W 6:30pm-8pm or by appointment

12) Shreve Memorial Library Genealogy Department
1212 Captain Shreve Dr, Shreveport, Caddo, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 318-219-3468
Hours: Mon-Thur 9am-9pm; Fri & SAt 9am-6pm; Sun 1pm-5pmAttention: Microfims from the Church can be ordered at this library

13)Shreveport Louisiana
200 Carroll St
Shreveport, Caddo Parish, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 318-861-6754
Hours: T,W 9am-7pm; 3rd Sat 9am-1pmClosed: Thanksgiving week. 2 weeks from Christmas thru New Years.

14) Slidell Louisiana
112 Rue Esplanade
Slidell, St. Tammany, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 985-641-3982
Hours: T. & Sat. by appointment 9 am - 2 pm, W. walk-in 9 am - 2 pm T. & Sat 9 am - 2 pm by appointment, W. 9 am- 2pm walk-in

15)St Tammany Parish
Public Library Covington Branch
310 W 21st AveCovington
St Tammany, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 985-893-6280 x107Hours: Mon-Thur 9am-8pm; Fri & Sat 9am-5pmAttention: Microfilms can be ordered from the Church at this Library

16)Thibodaux Louisiana
3415 Little Black Bayou Rd
Houma, Terrebonne, Louisiana, United States
Phone: 985-876-0221Hours: W 7pm-9pm; Also by appointment

17)Winnfield Louisiana
8991 Hwy 501Winnfield, Winn, Louisiana,
United StatesPhone: 318-628-6945Hours: Th 1pm-9pm

My Virginia Historical Adventures

2010-06-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, I took a trip back in time to Jamestown, Yorktown and Williamsburg, Virginia where much of the early history of America took place. I was just so enchanted with these places and the stories of the people that once resided there. These places are so well perserved. I have a lot to tell about my adventure but little time to do so at this time so look for a future blog containing my tales of my Virginia visit.

New York City?........Get a rope?

2010-05-30T17:36:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm back in my home away from home, New York, not getting a rope but getting some much needed R&R hanging out in the "Big Apple." As usual, its been fun-filled and entertaining. Yesterday, I got all I got all dressed up in one of my most glamorous dresses to attend the Broadway play, Fences starring the infamous, Denzel Washington. I knew it was going to be a special performance before the show even began because I happened to sight the performer going into the Cort Theater about 2 hours before the show was to begin. He is such a class act! He exited the vehicle he arrived in and walked nonchalantly into the side stage door while waving to onlookers and flashing that gorgeous smile of his. His wife, Paulette is one of the luckiest women in the world next to Michelle Obama. Anyway, I got so excited about his casual entrance, that it did not occur to me to flash the camera that I happened to be holding at the time. I was so enchanted, I completely zoned out and was oblivious to all that was going on around me in very busy NY. Denzel's performance was nothing short of amazing! I sat 6 rows from the stage and was just memorized by the actor as well as the rest of the cast. If you are going to be in the NY area anytime soon, this play is a must see. To top off my excitement, during intermission, I headed for the ladies room as just as I was about to enter, I looked back and coming out of the men's facility was Stevie Wonder! Again, I greeted him with much excitement and he also was very friendly and reciprocated. As it turned out he was sitting two rows down from me.

After the show, I perused the City taking in the sights and sounds, then in the evening went to see Sex and the City at a theater on 42nd Street. It was a great film and actually seeing the show in New York where it is centered made it all the better.

This morning, I headed to Harlem for church at Abyssinian Baptist where I have been going every time I visit NY since 1999. The service was excellent and the choir angelic as usual. After church, I viewed some of the new History Displays that graced the Halls. The display cases were lined with photographs and biographies of all the former Pastors since the 1800's. What a heritage! After exiting the church and heading towards Lenox Avenue, I was just amazed by the towering new mural that is being erected on the new wing of the Harlem Hospital. It is so vibrant and features a depiction of Cab Calloway as well as teams of African American doctors and nurses. The artist or artists who created this should really be commended.

Next, I headed to Sylvia's Soul Food where I enjoyed some fried Catfish and Grits with Collard Greens and Candied Yams. Yum, Yum. Scrumptious. I then perused Harlem buying from little shops here and there.

I then headed to Central Park. The weather is just excellent here today. Everyone was out enjoying the weather just basting in and soaking up the Sun! I just enjoy being in Central Park watching the sights and sounds and being one with nature.

I also visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art and took in the ancient artifacts of Rome and Egypt. Anyone who knows me well, know I LOVE art and this is certainly a place that any true art lover likes to hang out at. The museum has acquired so many more new and exquisite pieces since my last visit.

Of course being in the area of 5th Avenue, I had to stop by Bloomingdales.

Well, tomorrow, I'm off to Virginia to visit my niece and her family so I have to say farewell to NY but its been a blast! However, I am really looking forward to seeing my family in Virginia.

Well bye for now........LOL

Who Do You Think You Are?

2010-05-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

Last night I watched the final episode of the new genealogy series, "Who Do You Think You Are?" As you may recall that is the new spin-off show of the the British series that documents the ancestry of national celebrities.

Last night's show featured the African American film-maker, Spike Lee. It was an excellent show. Spike with the help of several genealogists was able to uncover and trace his family back to the slavery era. He learned that one of his maternal great-great grandfathers, Mars Woodall Jackson had Georgia roots and that he was formally owned by a Plantation Owner bearing the surname Woodall. He also discovered that after slavery, his grandfather changed his surname from Woodall to Jackson. Additionally, he retrieved land records documenting the ownership of 80 plus acres in Georgia. A very moving moment came when Spike visited and set foot on the actual land that his ancestor owned and farmed. It was a very poignant moment for him as well as myself when he collected red clay dirt to take back home as a reminder of who he came from. This was especially meaningful to me as I too come from the Red Clay Dirt land of Louisiana. Irony presented itself with Spike learning of his ancestor, Mars Woodall Jackson because it was also the name of the main character in his first film. The idea for the name came from his grandmother and benefactor, Lucinda Jackson but he just learned the full history of its origin.

Later in the show, Spike traced another ancestor by the name of Wilson Griswald who was owned by a slaveowner bearing the same name in Griswaldville. It turned out that he was one of the largest slaveowners in the area. Legal documents suggest that Wilson was a skilled slave who highly valued by his slaveowner. Spike learned that Wilson worked in a firearms factory in Griswaldsville where weapons were manufactured, primarily by slaves, for the Confederate Army. The factory was destroyed during the Civil War by none other than General Sherman and his army since it was the largest producer of guns for the Confederate Army. Again, it was a stirring moment when a historian handed Spike Lee an actual gun produced in the factory. Unfortunately, all records of Wilson Griswald after the destruction of the weapons factory disappear. Hence, it is not known whether or not he was killed in the factory or taken captive by Sherman's army since there is record that 5 Negroes were captured and taken with his company.

The show ended with a reunion between Spike and a white descendant of the Griswald slave owner. The pair appeared initially uneasy during their meeting but came to a meeting of the minds that slavery was a terrible atrocity.

Anyway, it was a very enjoyable finale show. I says kudos to "Who Do You Think You Are" and Ancestry.com for doing such a great job presenting the ancestry of the celebrities who appeared on the show during the season. Another awesome show was the episode that presented the ancestry of football-great, Emmitt Smith.

If you missed the show or any other episodes, you can go to http://www.hulu.com/ to watch it.

Family Search Labs-Newly Added/Updated Sites

2010-05-01T12:35:00.000-07:00

Great news! A couple of days ago, Family Search Labs Records Search added and/or updated a myriad of records for multiple states. These include death, marriage and birth records for Louisiana, North Carolina, Arkansas, Kansas, Ohio, Maine, Nova Scotia, Hawaii, Arizona, Florida, Oregon, New York, Maryland and many other states. Please pass along this information to people who you know are doing research in the states with newly updated or added documents. Happy hunting!

Who Do You Think You Are?

2010-03-09T17:43:00.000-08:00

NBC has a new show on called "Who Do You Think You Are?" The show is an American spin off of the 6 year old British show that traces the ancestry of national celebrities. In each episode, a celebrity goes on a journey to trace his or her family tree.

The premier show featured actress, Sarah Jessica Parker. She traced her ancestor with the surname Hodge from Cincinnati, Ohio to El Dorado County, California in the Gold County. She also traced an earlier ancestor, Elwell back to Salem, Massachusetts and discovered that she was part of the infamous Salem witch trials. I actually visited Salem, Massachusetts several years back and viewed some of the victims graves. It was quite eerie.

In general, I like the show and I am glad that there is now a Genealogy program that will hopefully encourage individuals to trace their family history.

My only criticism is that the show seemed unnecessarily "scripted." The reactions of Ms. Parker to finding out about her ancestry seemed unnatural and exaggerated and her words seemed as though they came from a cue card. It was clear that the show was trying to relay to the audience reasons why they would want to trace their ancestry, but from my almost 20 years of experience in Genealogy, people are naturally excited when they find out about themselves and the message comes across more clearly.

However, as mentioned, I still think the show is wonderful and I am looking forward to future episodes.

Black History Salute to Ron Brown

2010-02-23T18:48:00.000-08:00

In honor of Black History Month, I would like to remember Ron Brown who was the first African-American to be appointed to the Cabinet post of Secretary of Commerce. As well, he was the first black to serve as Chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

He was born in Washington D.C. but his family relocated to Harlem, New York. He was well educated having attended Hunter College Elementary School, Rhodes Preparatory School and Middlebury College in Vermont.

He later joined the Army in 1962 serving in South Korea and Germany. He married his sweetheart, Alma Arrington. After his honorable discharge from the service, he joined the National Urban League and enrolled in Law School at St. John's University where he received his degree in 1970. He spent twelve years with the Urban League as Deputy Executive Director, General Counsel, and Vice President of the Washington bureau.

He concurrently became involved in politics and worked on Senator Edward M. Kennedy’s presidential campaign in 1980. He was appointed chief counsel for the Senate Judiciary Committee under the chairmanship of the Senator.

In 1981 Mr. Brown joined Patton, Boggs & Blow, becoming the first African-American partner at this prestigious firm in the nation’s capital.

He died on April 3, 1996, while on an official trade mission, the Air Force CT43 with 34 other people when the plane crased into a mountainside in Croatia.

He was a true African American Hero so in honor of Black History Month, I am paying tribute to Ron Brown.

Black History Salute to Caesar "C.C"Antoine

2010-02-18T18:57:00.000-08:00

In honor of Black History Month, I would like to pay tribute to a little known black hero, Caesar Carpenter "C.C." Antoine. He was Louisiana born and bred in New Orleans and came from "good stock." His father fought at the Battle of New Orleans and his mother was of African/West Indian heritage and the daughter of a captured African Chief. His mother purchased her own freedom and amassed a small fortune for her time which enabled the family to live as free blacks. Their wealth also afforded Antoine a quality education at the best private schools where he became fluent in English and French.

In New Orleans, Antoine established and ran a successful grocery business. However, after the Civil War broke out and the Union captured and occupied New Orleans, this proud young nubian joined the Union Army. He quickly rose to the rank of Captain in the one of the nation’s first all-black regiments, the Louisiana Native Guards. He also recruited former slaves to serve in Company I of the Seventh Native Guard which he organized at Brashear which was 85 miles from New Orleans.

After the Civil War, Antoine moved to Shreveport, Louisiana where he purchased land for farming and and went back into the grocery business.

However, he soon answered a call to serve his Country during Reconstruction in an effort to make life better for his family and other newly freed African Americans. His first political office was that of a Delegate to Louisiana’s Constitutional Convention in 1868 which set the parameters of Louisiana’s Reconstruction-era state government. With black voting rights established under the protection of federal troops, Antoine served Louisiana as State Senator between 1868 and 1872 and Lieutenant Governor from 1872 to 1877. In 1876 he was briefly Acting Governor. Antoine’s tenure in office ended soon after the Compromise of 1877 which withdrew federal troops from Louisiana, allowing the Democrats to return to power.

Antoine enjoyed a life that former slaves and blacks had previously only dreamed of. He had a nice house, investments in the railroad and lottery, raised race horses and co-owned the semi-weekly newspaper called "Louisiana" with Pinckney Benton Stewart Pinchback, the nation's first black Governor of a U.S. state. Antoine also served in 1880 as the president of the Cosmopolitan Life Insurance Company.

C. C. Antoine died in September of 1921 in his house on Perrin Street at the age of eighty-five. He is buried in Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Shreveport. In 1982, an 8-acre park was dedicated to him.

So in honor of Black History Month, I would like to salute this very accomplished Louisianan, Caesar "C.C"Antoine. I thank God for you C.C. May He bless you and pray that he blesses you richly in the Afterlife!

Black History Month Tribute to God the Father

2010-02-09T17:55:00.000-08:00

In honor of Black History Month, I would like to pay tribute to God, the father. The reason is pretty obvious to me but for those of you who it is not so apparent to, please let me explain.

First of all, I thank God for protecting and allowing the many African men, women and children to make it safely to America even though it was under less than desirable circumstances. I thank God for giving them the strength and courage to endure the brutality, hard labor and conditions that they experienced at the hands of their capturers. I thank Him for comforting them when their hearts longed for their homeland and their families so far away. I also thank God for giving them the will to keep a positive attitude even under dire circumstances and for putting a song in their hearts, minds, and mouths, i.e. hymms and spirtuals to give them peace and joy in their souls even in the midst of a hostile environment.

FACT-An estimated 645,000 slaves were kidnapped and sold into slavery in the United States. The slave population in the United States had grown to four million by the time of the 1860 Census.

I also thank God for working through people like President Abraham Lincoln, abolistionists, former slaves, Union Officers and soldiers both black and white and giving them the courage to stand up against what in the heart of hearts was not right and for being willing to lay down their lives for it. I also thank him for the many African American men, women and children who were allowed to experience freedom.

FACT-Approximately 180,000 free and runaway African-Americans comprised 163 units of the Union Army and served during the Civil War. Many others served in the Union Navy.

I would also like to thank God for giving the newly freed slaves the courage and desire to pursue and fight for their right to education, careers and to better themselves and the lives of their families amidst racial prejudice and intimidation. I thank him for allowing the former slaves, their descendents and others of african origin to enjoy prosperity and to obtain their goals of becoming doctors, lawyers, educators, professional athletes, musicians, heads of corporations, policiticians and anything else they desire to be!

I thank God for allowing a son of Africa, the nation from which our ancestors were brought to serve as a lowly slave-to become the head of the Nation, President of the United States! I thank God for President Barack Hussein Obama! Isn't it wonderful how God has a way of turning things around?

God is Good! Praise his name. He has been a strong force in the lives of African Americans since their arrival on U.S. soil. So in honor of Black History month, He receives all my praise, honor and Glory! Can I get a hallelujah and amen?

Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13-14

Genealogy Workshop at St. Paul's Baptist Church

2009-09-23T16:38:00.001-07:00

There is an upcoming Genealogy Workshop at St. Paul's Baptist Church. St. Paul's has always been a place where members of the African American community can come for worship and fellowship. However, the church also offers a variety of resources to the community in order to provide assistance and enrichment in other areas of their lives.

With that said, St. Paul Baptist Church is hosting its first Genealogy Workshop on Saturday, October 3, 2009 at 8:30 to 12:00 pm. The workshop will feature a Keynote Speaker as well as several local Genealogists, including myself, Karen Burney, Linda Bradley and Annette Madden who will be teaching beginning, intermediate and advanced classes in Genealogy. These classess will teach attendees skills and techniques that will enable them to reconnnect with their ancestral pasts including some of their slave ancestors.

This workshop serves a as a milestone, not just in Sacramento but for African American churches throughout the country. The church has always been a refuge for Africans Americans since slavery. It is only fitting that the church is allowing its present members to trace their roots and reconnect with their ancestors many of whom also relied on the church in their lifetime. In doing so, St. Paul is setting a precedent for African American churches throughout the Country.

Due the overwhelming interest and response, the classes are already at capacity. However, I wanted to do a story on the event so that it might spark interest in future seminars as well as encourage other churches in the African American community to host similar events.

Psalm 22:27

2009-08-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

Psalm 22:27 All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.

History of Memorial Day

2009-05-25T20:01:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day was first celebrated in 1868 and was then known as "Decoration Day." It was a day to honor the then recently fallen Civil War soldiers by decorating their graves.

It was originally observed on May 30, 1868 by proclamation of a General John A. Logan. At the very first Decoration Day celebration, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery and over 5,000 people helped decorate the graves of more than 20,000 confederate and union soldiers.

By the late 1800s, the day had come to be known as Memorial Day. Following World War I, the celebration expanded to memorialize those who had died in all of the Nation's wars.

In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday to be celebrated the last Monday in May.

Today, Memorial Day is celebrated across the country to honor those who has served in our Nation's armed forces as well as all others who were near and dear to us.

What is ironic to me though the fact that 141 years after the 1st celebration and speech at Arlington National Cemetery, our new President Barack Hussein Obama, the nation's 1st black president delivered the speech today at the annual event. The irony to me comes from the fact that the Civil War was fought over the enslavement of blacks and that most of those buried there that fought in that war, died over the issue.

This is just a testimony of how far we have come as a Nation.

Memorial Day Tribute

2009-05-25T18:57:00.000-07:00

JEWEL ALPHONSO BURNEY October 2, 1928-February 13, 1973

Korean War Veteran

In honor of Memorial Day, I would like to salute my father, Jewel Alphonso Burney who served in the United States Army during the Korean War. My father was born and raised in the Collinsburg area of Louisiana. He was the son of William and Bessie Hines Burney. He was one of 5 of their children but also had 3 other siblings.

He was very bright as a young child. Many tell stories of how he was an early reader and how he taught younger siblings to read as well. He also had an early interest in "tinkering" with electronic gadgets, fixing and putting things together.

He was educated at Egypt Hill School which doubled as a santuary on Sunday which was pastored by his grandfather, Reverend Anderson Burney.

As a young man, he decided to join the U.S. Army where he fought in the Korean War. He served his country well and was very proud as were we of his service up until his death in 1973. He is buried the Veterans Cemetery. I went to put flowers on his grave today. So in honor of Memorial Day, I would like to salute my father for his service to his country.

Start Spreading the News...NY, NY

2009-05-11T06:51:00.001-07:00

Good morning, all. I am coming to you live today from New York City! I am here for an extended weekend in honor of Mothers' Day and I am having a blast. It has really been both a relaxing and invigorating trip for me.

New York is kind of my home away from home. I have been coming here for the last 10 years since 1999.

This time I have been on many adventures including a walking tour of Manhattan, Times Square Area and a guided tour of the city via New York Splash/Duck tours which transforms from a tour bus to a vessel that sails up Hudson River! After my voyage, I caught a wonderful play by the late August Wilson entitled, "Joe Turners' Come and Gone." The cast included Ernie Hudson and Latanya Richardson Jackson who is a wonderful actress and wife of Samuel L. Jackson.

Day 2 was Mothers' Day. I started my day off with attending a church service at the Abyssinian Baptist church, the Rev. Calvin O. Butts presiding. He preached a lovely service and the choir as usual was angelic. After church, I ventured over to my favorite Harlem eating spot, Sylvia's Soul Food. Madam Sylvia herself was in attendance and looked rather lovely.

Next I jetted off, by subway and bus of course, to Newark, New Jersey to a performance by the famed Alvin Ailey dances accommpanied by members of Sweet Honey and the Rock. The performance was superb! I have an excellent view of the performance in the 1st Orchestra Box! The music Hall at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) was gorgeous with stunning ceilings that took my breath away. Next, I journeyed back to New York for an exciting concert at the Beacon Theater featuring, the fabulous Whispers and Teena Marie. Lets just say they turned it out. Both performers had the audience mesmerized and out of their seats for most of the show. Quite a day, huh!

Today, I am headed to Central Park and the public library and I plan to take in a movie this evening.

I am really enjoying my time in New York..... New York!

In Memory Of...............Happy Resurrection Day

2009-04-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

Click to view document

Psalm 33:12

2009-04-04T16:11:00.000-07:00

Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.

African American Genealogy Seminar

2009-04-04T12:53:00.000-07:00

Hello all. I know its been a long time since we last talked. Sorry for my absence but life has been really busy. Since my last blog, I conducted a workshop at the annual African American Genealogy Seminar hosted by the Latter Day Saints. I taught a class entitled, "USING DIGITAL SCRAPBOOKING IN YOUR FAMILY HISTORY."

The purpose of the class was to teach individuals how they could combine the art of Digital Scrapbooking and graphic art with their genealogy research to create a Family History book. I illustrated how they could personalize their pages by combining family photographs, clipart and backgrounds with your genealogy research "finds" and family biographies to create a Family History Book that represented their family’s unique personality and heritage.

The information that I presented was very well received. As I had a lot of people come up to me after the class and tell me how much they enjoyed the class and that I had given them some ideas that they planned to utilize in creating their family books.

Below is a short outline of the information and steps that I presented for using digital scrapbooking in your Family History book. Hopefully, it will gives you some ideas and valuable tips on putting together your family history.

USING DIGITAL SCRAPBOOKING IN YOUR FAMILY HISTORY

1. BENEFITS
a) Adds personality and interest to your Family History Book and helps to better present and display your ancestors and their stories
b) You can print out multiple copies of your Family History
c) You can display in the form of a web gallery and/or send to your family and friends electronically so they can print their own copies
d) It is less costly than traditional Scrapbooking since you spend less on supplies

2. EQUIPMENT/SOFTWARE NEEDED (There are lots of software programs you can use. Here are some examples. Some contain pre-made templates and elements that allow you to create beautiful pages for your Family History)

a) Nova Development Photo Explosion
b) Nova Development Scrapbook Factory Deluxe
c) Adobe Photoshop
d) Jasc Paint Shop Pro
e) Microsoft Word
f) Online Scrapbooking Sites

3. STEPS: (Please note that there is no particular order that you need to perform steps a through e. You can choose all or one step. It’s up to you what you want to do to create your own unique designs)

a) Choose photograph(s) of people, places, things.
b) Upload photograph(s) from computer file, scanner or digital camera
c) Select background, borders, frames, photo corners, embellishments, clipart, maps, charts
graphs, family trees or any other items you want to include
d) You can add genealogy documents such as birth and/or death certificates, marriage license.
e) Enter your genealogy text such as a individual biographies or other information pertaining
to the page that you are creating
f) Arrange Items on page as desired
g) Once a final layout and design is completed, you can save, print, email or post to a webpage
h). Finally, you can have your pages bound to create your Family History Book

The Witherspoons of South Carolina via Scotland-Part 1 of a 5 part series

2009-03-30T21:13:00.001-07:00

I have previously written blogs about how some of my ancestral lines are intertwined with that of the Witherspoon family of Louisiana, South Carolina and Scotland. The reason my family is connected with the Witherspoons is because they owned some of my ancestors during slavery.

In particular, Boykin Witherspoon owned my Pressley, Brayboy/Morris and possibly Hines and Jefferson lines. My grandpa Stephen Pressley who was born in 1820 was owned by Boykin Witherspoon. Stephen in fact wore the Witherspoon name up until the end of slavery when he took on the surname, Pressley.

Great-Great-Great Grandpa Stephen Pressley

So who are the Witherspoons and when did they arrive in America? The first Witherspoons according to a history written in 1790 by Robert Witherspoon, the grandson of the original Witherspoon settlers came to America in 1734.

The patriarch of the original emigrants was John Witherspoon who was born in 1670 in Begardie, Glasgow, Scotland. He married his cousin, Janet Witherspoon in 1693. The two were direct descendants of John Knox of Scotland and Robert the Bruce. As well, they were blood-related to Mary Queen of Scots.

John and Janet Witherspoon were the parents of Janet (1695-1761), David (1697-1759), James, Elizabeth (1703-1750), Robert, Mary (1707-1765) and Gavin (1712-1773).

As mentioned they originally resided in Scotland but relocated in 1695 to Knockbracken in the parish of Drumbo, Down county, Ireland where their children were born.

So what made them want to come to America? John Witherspoon received land grants from the King of England, George II. The tract of land sat between the lower Santee, Black and Pee Dee rivers. King George II ordered that eleven townships be erected to develop the "back country" of the Carolina Province. The townships were to consist of 20,000 acres laid out to front a river. The land where the Witherspoons were en route to sat on the Black river.

It still seems odd when you think about it for a King of England to be sending orders clear across the ocean in regards to the affairs in America. I guess I'm so used to our current governmental regime but this of course was before the "invention" of Presidents, Congress, and other U.S. government entities.

Hence, the Witherspoons set sail on September 17, 1734 from Belfast in Northern Ireland to America on a ship called "The Good Intent". The passengers included John Witherspoon (1670 -1739), his wife Janet (1670 - 1734), his sons, daughers and their families along with other families including the Pressleys in search of a new life in America. The voyage, however, proved to be very rocky and tragic. As John's wife, Janet died two days out from Belfast on the ship. The family was devastated which was worsened by the fact that they had to bury her at sea.

After the stormy voyage, the Witherspoon landed in Charleston, South Carolina around the 1st of December 1734. They reached Kingstree (Kinstree) in Feb 1735 in Williamsburg District. What they found made them question their decision to come to America. The area proved to be a heavily timbered wilderness full of snakes, wolves and other wild animals and Native Americans whose ancestors had inhabited the land for centuries so often took offense to their intrusion on what they considered to be their land. The tribes included the Wee Nee, the Wee Tee, Chickasaw, Creek , Waccamaw and other Pedee tribes.

After many obstacles including harsh weather, they began the task of building the town of Williamsburg. Of course, they did not do it alone, they did so with the aid of the Africans slaves that they acquired. Many of whom were my ancestors. The slaves provided the labor they needed to clear timber and other debris, develop roads, build structures and to turn a wilderness into a functioning town.

They laid out the town of Williamsburg which they named in honor of William, II, Prince of Orange (1650 – 1702). From 1689 onwards, he reigned as King over England, Ireland and Scotland. He was known in Northern Ireland as "King Billy". By the time, Williamsburg was erected he was already deceased. I guess his legacy must have been meaningful to the new settlers.

The name Kingstree which is the present-day site of Williamsburg and the first town in the Williamsburg township came from a large white pine tree on the bank of the Black River which forms the western boundary of the town. The tree was described as majestic and stood tall, erect and more noble than the others. This species of pine, along with all gold and siver mines was reserved for the King. Hence, the name of King's tree was first given to the tree and then to the town.

Despite their initial doubts, the family prospered. The wilderness, although it had its challenges, had a bounty of deer, wild turkeys, fish and muscadine grapes. Hence, food was one thing they did not have to worry about. As the colony grew, they established plantations. The crops included corn, flax, cotton for clothing and later indigo. Rice was also grown along the river.

Of course, the building of Plantations came slaves. Lots of them. The slaves dedicated their lives to the building of the township of Williamsburg. Their sweat and toll provided food, shelter, livelihood and wealth to the Witherspoons and other colonists and for generations to come.

They also erected the Williamsburg Church.

John Witherspoon died in the fall of 1737 in Boggy Swamp.. He was the first person buried at the Williamsburg settlement and was also the first person buried at the Williamsburg Meeting house.

Other families that migrated from Scotland and Ireland with John Witherspoon were the Wilsons, Friersons, Plowdens, James, Stuarts, Gordons, Porters, Pressleys, McDonalds, Ervins and Bradleys.

My Jefferson Ancestors

2009-02-05T18:24:00.000-08:00

Thou shalt know also that thy seed shall be great, and thine offspring as the grass of the earth. Job 5:25

Issac "Tookie" Jefferson

Jane Brayboy Jefferson

My great-grandmother, Cornelia Jefferson Hines Nickleberry (center rear)pictured with her 5 other sisters

A while ago, I wrote about how pleasantly surprised and grateful I was to have received a package containing photographs of my Jefferson ancestors. It was so wonderful to finally put the faces with people who it seemed like I had known all my life since I had heard about them from various relatives. As well, I have traced their lives from a genealogical standpoint basically from birth to slavery to their deaths. I pretty much know when they laughed, when they cried, and when they got on their knees and praised God through the miracle of genealogy records.

It is so nice to actually see the people that I have spent so much time researching and writing about.

They are included below on the 1880 census. Also, listed the this Census page are other relatives, Lewis and Syntrilla Lejay and his parents Edwin and Mary Lejay but the census taker wrote their surname "Legere."

History.com celebrates Black History Month

2009-02-04T23:54:00.000-08:00

The website "History.com" is a wonderful site for learning about the history, contributions and journeys of Black men and women in America. In honor of Black History month, they are featuring an abundance of stories on noteable African Americans as well as some who are less known.

The site also features full-length videos on a variety of subjects and individuals.

This is a MUST visit site for anyone wanting to learn about more about the African American struggle and culture.

You can assess this website on the following link or click on the link on the right sidebar of this site:

http://www.history.com/minisites/blackhistory

2009 Inauguration of President Barack Obama

2009-01-25T03:14:00.000-08:00

On January 17,2009, I took a plane to Norfolk, Virginia to visit my niece and her family. The visit was very enjoyable. I had not seen them in a while so it a joyous occasion.

From there, on January 19, 2009, I set off for Washington, D.C. to bear witness to one of the most historic events in American History, the Inauguration of the first African American President, Barack Hussein Obama.

I had the privilege of attending the event, courtesy of California Congressman, Dan Lungren from whom I received a formal invitation and ticket. I visited his Washington, D.C. office on January 19th, and although he was not there, his staff members were very gracious and gave me the grand tour of the place. He has a very nice office which is filled with historical documents. Below are some photographs.

On January 20, 2009, I arose at the wee hour of 3 a.m. I got dressed and headed from my hotel in Camp Springs, Maryland which is about 20 minutes from Washington, D.C. to the Metro station which opened at 4 am. I was on the first train out of the station with my commemorative Barack Obama metro ticket. See below.

I journeyed with hundreds of other passengers down the train tracks to history. I disembarked from the train to the Federal Center Southwest Station which by the the time of our arrival was very crowded. I made my way through the crowd out of the station and on the sidewalk en route to the Capital.

The streets were already filled with a lot of people and police and other security personnel. We were directed to line up and wait for the opening of the gates to the Capital.

We waited in the cold. I am told that it was about 20 degrees at the time. However, I could not feel it. I'm not sure whether it is because of the 5 sweaters, 2 socks, 2 stockings and fur coat or the adrenaline from the anticipation of what I was about to partake in but I did not feel cold.

The time flew by fast. At 7:45, the gates opened and security personnel arrived to screen guests. We presented our tickets and were directed to the ticketed standing area.

Before we knew it, the ceremony began. It was an amazing experience that I will never forget. It was simply magical. I soaked in and savored every moment of it.

The swearing in of President Barack Hussein Obama was the most pungent. As he was sworn in, my mind was flooded with thoughts and images of the struggles of African Americans, some relatives throughout time. It brought tears to my eyes and caused me to look to the heavens and thank God with all my heart and soul. I felt humbled by God's grace.

God has truly brought us from a mighty long way, as a nation of people. I will treasure that day for as long as I live.

I pray that God gives President Barack Obama the ability to lead this nation back to prosperity.

My formal invitation (Click to view):

Inauguration Program:

Inside of Inauguration Program:

Trans-atlantic Slave Trade Database

2009-01-08T17:59:00.000-08:00

For those of you who do research with the Latter Day Saints, they have a new database that you can research on the Afican slave trade.

The site's goal is to offer researchers a chance to rediscover the reality of one of the largest forced movements of peoples in world history.

You can search the Voyages Database to look for particular voyages in this database of documented slaving expeditions. You can create listings, tables, charts, and maps using information from the database.

There is another database called the "Examine Estimates of the Slave Trade Slaves" which contains documented voyages in which you can use the interactive estimates page to analyze the full volume and multiple routes of the slave trade.

You can also explore the African Names Database to identify over 67,000 Africans aboard slave ships, using name, age, gender, origin, and place of embarkation.

I have just begun exploring the site but it looks really useful. You can search the site by going to http://www.slavevoyages.org/tast/index.faces or assess at a LDS Library.

Obama Victory Speech

2008-11-05T19:53:00.001-08:00

Remarks of President-Elect Barack Obama

Election Night, Chicago, Illinois
Tuesday, November 04, 2008

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.

It’s the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference. It’s the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled – Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America. It’s the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day. It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America.

I just received a very gracious call from Senator McCain. He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he’s fought even longer and harder for the country he loves. He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader. I congratulate him and Governor Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation’s promise in the months ahead.

I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the Vice President-elect of the United States, Joe Biden.

I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last sixteen years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation’s next First Lady, Michelle Obama.

Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that’s coming with us to the White House.

And while she’s no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am. I miss them tonight, and know that my debt to them is beyond measure.

To my campaign manager David Plouffe, my chief strategist David Axelrod, and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics – you made this happen, and I am forever grateful for what you’ve sacrificed to get it done.

But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to – it belongs to you. I was never the likeliest candidate for this office. We didn’t start with much money or many endorsements. Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington – it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston. It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give five dollars and ten dollars and twenty dollars to this cause. It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation’s apathy; who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep; from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers; from the millions of Americans who volunteered, and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this Earth. This is your victory.

I know you didn’t do this just to win an election and I know you didn’t do it for me. You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead. For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime – two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century. Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us. There are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they’ll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor’s bills, or save enough for college. There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created; new schools to build and threats to meet and alliances to repair. The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America – I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you – we as a people will get there.

There will be setbacks and false starts. There are many who won’t agree with every decision or policy I make as President, and we know that government can’t solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face. I will listen to you, especially when we disagree. And above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it’s been done in America for two-hundred and twenty-one years – block by block, brick by brick, calloused hand by calloused hand.

What began twenty-one months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek – it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It cannot happen without you. So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other. Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it’s that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers – in this country, we rise or fall as one nation; as one people. Let us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long. Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House – a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty, and national unity. Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress. As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, “We are not enemies, but friends…though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection.” And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn – I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too.

And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world – our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down – we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security – we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America’s beacon still burns as bright – tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope. For that is the true genius of America – that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow.

This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations. But one that’s on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She’s a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing – Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old. She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn’t vote for two reasons – because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin. And tonight, I think about all that she’s seen throughout her century in America – the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can’t, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can. At a time when women’s voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot. Yes we can. When there was despair in the dust bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose. Yes we can. When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes we can. She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma, and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that “We Shall Overcome.” Yes we can. A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination. And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change. Yes we can.

America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves – if our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will we have made? This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time – to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth – that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes We Can.

Thank you, God bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.

President Elect Barack Obama II

2008-11-05T19:28:00.000-08:00

Life in America changed on November 4, 2008. Yesterday, the country elected the first African American President, Barack Hussein Obama II and all the world has beared witness to one of the most profound moments in United States History.

There is a sense of renewed freedom in the air. Freedom from racial divides, stereotypes and barriers that have existed in this country for so many years. This event marks a new era not just in the United States but the world!

It shows that in the year, 2008, we have evolved! If we can get past petty things like skin "color," then its no telling what else can be accomplished.

For once, it feels as though, we are moving towards becoming one race. The "human race."

Praise the Lord!

Barack Obama

2008-11-04T19:58:00.000-08:00

Today, marks a historic moment in time. Barack Hussein Obama II born August 4, 1961 just became the 44th president of the United States.

For the first time in history, the United States feels truly "united." The nation is celebrating.

I went out and cast my vote today and although I have voted every election since becoming of age, this experience was the most profound. I took a photograph at the polls to memorize the day. I will upload it later.

Yesterday, President-elect Obama spoke in Manassas, Virgina and I was reminded of how my great-great-great grandfather Henry Johnson of Bossier Parish, Louisiana had fought on the front lines at the 2nd Manassas at the Battle of Bull Run which took place on August 28-30, 1862. He survived but his former Master, Hodge died on August 29, 1862 despite my Grandpa's efforts to save his life by carrying him for miles on his back.

Grandpa Henry was freed along with thousands upon thousands of other slaves when the North won the war and now 143 years after slavery was abolished, Barack Hussein Obama II has become the first black president.

God bless America!

The Poor House or the Poor Farm

2008-10-23T18:13:00.000-07:00

Frederick County Poor Farm, Frederick County, Virginia

2008 has proven to be a year of hard economic times. Record housing foreclosures, skyrocketing gas prices and plummeting drops in the Stock Market, have caused some to compare this era to that of the Great Depression.

There are many who have fallen on hard times. Families who have lost their dreams of home ownership, former millionaires who have seen their interest melt into nothing and everyday people living day to day just trying to make ends meet sometimes having to skip meals or other needs just to put gas in their cars in order to get to work are commonplace.

Homeless shelters and government programs are inundated with people in need of help.

But thank God for blessings. Unlike the times of the Great Depression, the Government is stepping in to help in the form of Corporate and Housing Market Bailouts, Special Loans, Stimulus Packages, and other programs all in the effort to keep the country afloat and from falling into the an economic abyss that resembles that of the past.

Hence, comes the topic of this blog. A fellow researcher ran across a census report that contained the names of individuals that was housed in a "Poor Farm." She was astonished as I to find the names of several families listed. We recalled how as children, how our parents used to say things like, "You better turn off those lights or be more financially aware or you are going to land us in the "Poor House or the Poor Farm." Neither of us actually realized that it was an actual place. I thought my mother was just being "melodramatic."

I researched it and found that a poorhouse or workhouse was a government-run facility for the support and housing of dependent or needy persons, typically run by a local government entity such as a county or municipality.

During the Victorian era, poverty was viewed as a dishonourable state caused by a lack of the moral virtue of industriousness or laziness.

A Poorhouse often resembled a reformatory and house children, either with families or alone, or a penal labour regime to give the poor work at manual labour and subject them to physical punishment.

The term is commonly applied to such a facility that houses the destitute elderly; institutions of this nature were widespread in the United States prior to the adoption of the Social Security program in the 1930s. Facilities housing indigents who are not elderly are typically referred to as homeless shelters, or simply "shelters," in current usage.

Often the poorhouse was situated on the grounds of a poor farm on which able-bodied residents were required to work; such farms were common in the United States in the 19th and early 20th centuries; it could even be part of the same economic complex as a prison farm and other penal or charitable public institutions.

Poor farms were county or town-run residences where paupers (mainly elderly and disabled people) were supported at public expense. They were common in the United States beginning in the middle of the 19th century and declined in use after the Social Security Act took effect in 1935 with most disappearing completely by about 1950.

Most were working farms that produced at least some of the produce, grain, and livestock they consumed. Residents were expected to provide labor to the extent that their health would allow, both in the fields and in providing housekeeping and care for other residents. Rules were strict and accommodations minimal.

I guess they would be today's equivalent of a homeless shelter.

Below is an extract from a 1900 Census that show residents of a "Poor Farm" in Falls County, Texas.

Household Members: Age/Race/Marital status
Nettles Head
Nettles Wife
Baze Chism 49 / Black /Widow
Rachel Edwards 75/Black /Widow
Mary Hayword 30/ Black /Widow
Sarrah Jones 28/Black/Widow
Mathew Williams 50/Black/Single
Norah May 46/Black/Single
Lizzie Duglas 35/ Black/Widow
West Duglas 6 months/Black/Single
Mary Phone 35/White/Single
Lizzie Lee 52/White/Single
Lu Williams 25/White/Widow
Orlee Williams 11months/white/Single
John Popeb 67 White/widow

This farm appears to have been run by a gentleman with the surname Nettles and his wife. No other vital information was given about them. The residents were comprised of both whites and blacks many of whom were widowed with children.

This really puts things in prospective for me. Even in the hard ecomonic times of 2008, we should still be grateful for government programs such as social security widow's and children survival benefits, general welfare, health programs, food programs and the like.

I am still both astonished and saddened to know that the "Poor House" or "Poor Farm," was not just a figure of speech that our parents used to make us exercise more financial consciousness in order to save them money.

In Memory of the Tyree C. Green

2008-10-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

Today, I attended the funeral services of my cousin, Tyree Green. The last time I spoke with him in depth, he told me that he was working on getting his health right. Well, I learned today that he was not only working on his outer self but his inner spirit and relationship with God. I was very happy to know that he had recently re-committed himself and had a relationship with God.

I was sad to hear the news of his passing but elated to hear of the "Good News" that he has a chance at eternal life since the scriptures tell us that:

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

Hallelujah and praise the Lord that he called upon the name of the Lord!

Important Election 2008 information

2008-10-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

PLEASE ALERT EVERYONE YOU KNOW ESPECIALLY YOUTHS THAT MIGHT NOT BE AWARE, THAT CAMPAIGN CLOTHING, BUTTONS, PINS, HATS, ETC ARE NOT ALLOWED AT THE POLLS.

THEY ARE BANNED BY LAW WITHIN 40 FEET OF THE POLLING PLACES SINCE THEY ARE CONSIDERED BY LAW TO BE CAMPAIGNING AND YOU WILL BE TURNED AWAY AT THE POLLS AND NOT ALLOWED TO VOTE.

PLEASE SHARE THIS WITH AS MANY PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE. IT IS AN IMPORTANT ELECTION YEAR AND WHETHER YOU ARE REPUBLICAN OR DEMOCRAT, WE NEED ALL THE VOTES TO COUNT!

A Salute to Private JKB

2008-10-16T19:22:00.000-07:00

This week was filled with mixed emotions for me. On Monday, October 13, 2008, my nephew, Private J.K.B. was deployed to Iraq. My heart was heavy but at the same time I felt proud because of his obvious dedication and invaluable contribution to this country.

Part of my sadness was due to the realization that the little boy that was once the "apple of my eye" has suddenly become a man.

I talked with my nephew a couple of days before he was to embark on his mission and related to him just how proud I was of him. I also reminded him that he joins the ranks of the many ancestors and other relatives who have served this country. He was surprised to know that we have had ancestors and/or relatvies who have fought for this country since the Revolutionary War but it is true. Heres is just a few:

Joshua Braveboy - American Revolution (Revolutionary War)
Great-GG Grandpa Henry Johnson - Civil War
G-Uncle Johnnie Johnson- World War I
Uncle Huey Lee-World War II 8 Mar 1943
Jewel and Herbert Burney-Korean War
Clyde Lee-Vietnam War
D.Burney and T. Carter-Desert Storm
JKB-Iraqi War

Again, these are just a few. There were so many others. I plan to do a special tribute in another blog to salute ALL those who served this country so valiantly.

I encouraged my nephew to keep his faith and to be prayerful and to remember that he is not going alone, that God will be there every step of the way.

You would have to know my nephew and the journey he took to get where he is today. Even as a tot, you could see that God created someone very SPECIAL. He is one of the most spiritually beautiful people you would ever want to know. He is a man full of
eloquence, grace and honor. He is the type of person that finds friends where ever he goes.

I know that God will accompany him on his journey and ensure his safe arrival back home to his family that loves him.

Please keep him in your prayers

Miracle at St. Anna

2008-10-14T19:36:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have not already gone to see it, Spike Lee's "Miracle at St.Anna" is a must see. It is based on the screenplay and novel written by James McBride.

The movie is set in Italy in 1944 and highlights the contributions and sacrifices of Colored Troops during World War II. It demonstrates the bravery of these colored men who put their very lives on the line to defend the United States even though racism still thrived even in the military.

The cast was awesome. They did a wonderful job of connecting with the characters, era, the mood of the 1940's and the war. The cast included Derek Luke, Aubrey Stamps, Michael Ealy, Laz Alonso, Omar Benson Miller and Matteo Sciabordi.

According to military records, there were an estimated 922,965 blacks who served in various capacities during World War II.

These men should be forever remembered for their valiant service and contribution.

Again, for a glimpse into that time in history, I encourage you to go see, "Miracle at St. Anna."

Joel 2:13

2008-09-23T20:14:00.000-07:00

Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity. Joel 2:13

Louisiana Death Records Available Online

2008-09-23T19:28:00.000-07:00

The Louisiana Death Records index is now available online from 1911-1957. The index lists death certificates more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, the entire image of the death certificate is not available for viewing or printing.

However, you can search the index for a family member and then order the certificate by mail for $5.49 or you can go to the Research Library in Baton Rouge and print the a microfilm copy of the death certificate for 50 cents.

Below is an example of a search I did on my Brittentine line.

Results
Year Age Month Day Name Parish
1932 17 11 18 BRITTENTINE , BEATRICE Caddo
Order Page: 12159 Volume: 31
1946 56 5 23 BRITTENTINE , ERNEST Caddo
Order Page: 401 Volume: 5
1920 19 8 6 BRITTENTINE , JUDY Caddo
Order Page: 8428 Volume: 18
1927 28 9 3 BRITTENTINE , LILLIAN Bossier
Order Page: 10404 Volume: 23
1926 7 MO 4 1 BRITTENTINE , NORA LEE Bossier
Order Page: 10655 Volume: 25
1943 45 6 13 BRITTENTINE , SALLIE Bossier
Order Page: 699 Volume: 508

You can assess the new site at http://www.sos.louisiana.gov/tabid/640/Default.aspx. or click the link on the bottom right of this page labeled "Louisiana Death Certificate (Orders).

Be forewarned that there are a few glitches on the new site. The PDF order form will not come up if your pop-up blocker is on. If this happens, I would recommend that you just print screen the index page your subject appears on, highlight it and send your request with your fee to:

STATE OF LOUISIANA
SECRETARY OF STATE
P.O. BOX 94125
BATON ROUGE, LA 70804-9125
(225) 922-1000
www.sos.louisiana.gov

Ancestry.com also has a Louisiana Death Index for the same period. Once you find the name, you can print the page and send with your $5.00 fee. However, Ancestry.com is a paid site but you can use it for free at your Public Library. I have ordered certificates from Louisiana before and they are fairly prompt.

Because Louisiana is a "closed record" state, meaning birth and death certificates less than 50 years old are not public records, all these requests must include proper identification. In addition, you can only obtain a certified copy of a death certificate if you are the surviving spouse of the person named on the document, parent of the person named on the document, adult child of the person named on the document, sibling of the person named on the document, grandparent of the person named on the document, adult grandchild of the person named on the document, or the beneficiary of an insurance policy of the person named on the document. You can order these at:

Vital Records Registry, P.O. Box 60630, New Orleans, LA 70160; Phone (504)568-5152 or visit their web site at www.dhh.state.la.us for more information.

Good luck with your Louisiana Death cerificate research.

The Black Loyalists

2008-09-16T20:18:00.000-07:00

Black Loyalists were former slaves or free negroes who in exchange for the promise of freedom by the British Government during the American Revolutionary War, promised to fight against the American Colonies. Although, some were slaves of white Loyalists. In an effort to fortify the British forces, some of the Generals issued proclamations that slaves who joined the British Armies would be freed despite threats from outraged Virginia slave owners who decreed that runaway slaves would be executed.

Slavery in England had been abolished in 1772 after a decision from Lord Mansfield, Chief Justice of the King's Bench, but this decision did not apply in the colonies.

The Black recruits formed regiments such as the Dunmore's Ethiopian Regiment, Sir Clinton's Black Pioneers, Jersey Shore Volunteers, the King's American Dragoons, the Jamaica Rangers, and the Mosquito Shore Volunteers. Many of these regiments won key battles.

However, as history records it, the British lost the War to the Americans and unfortunately many former British Black Loyalists were returned to their former Masters or sold back into slavery. In addition, the approximate 2500 slaves of White Loyalists, remained slaves until 1834 when slavery ended in the entire British Empire. Hence, the British did not hold up to their end of the bargain that they made to these former slaves.

However, some generals were insistent that the former Black British soldiers be rewarded for their service. There were over 3,000 free African Americans who migrated to Nova Scotia primarily and are listed in the Book of Negroes, a book that documents the Black Loyalists. In 1793, these Blacks were taken to Florida, Nova Scotia and England as free men and women. Their names were recorded in the "Book of Negroes" by General Carleton. The group of refugees who arrived in Nova Scotia were the largest group of people of African descent to arrive there at any one time. Included in the "Book of Negroes" was a Mary Braveboy. Please recall that is one of my ancestral paternal names. Mary was aged 44 at the time of her relocation and she traveled on the ship,"Thames Abraham Ingram," to St. Johns River which in New Brunswick. I must say I was surprised because I have an acquaintance who traced her family back to the Black Loyalists and never knew that there might be a connection in my family as well.

From many of these free and enslaved Africans descended the Black Canadian culture which exists today. They have made a significant impact on the Canadian culture. There is documented evidence, that game of Hockey was created by descendants of these Africans. The story is documented in George and Darril Fosty's book,"Black Ice: The Lost History of the Colored Hockey League of the Maritimes." They populated towns such as Halifax, Annapolis, Birchtown, Shelburne and New Brunswich.

However, after the war many Black Loyalists were evacuated to London and were included in the population of the Black Poor. About 4,000 of these former Black Loyalists migrated to Sierra Leone in 1787 and about 1100 more migrated there directly from Canada and are known as the Nova Scotian settlers. Today, their descendants are known as the Sierra Leone Creole people of Freetown, Sierra Leone.

These Black Warriors had a very proud history. They demonstrated tremendous bravery in their quest for freedom although for many, it never came.

Julie Andrew's favorite things about aging!

2008-08-31T14:40:00.000-07:00

Julie Andrews Turns 69,

To commemorate her birthday , actress/vocalist, Julie Andrews made a special appearance at Manhattan 's Radio City Music Hall for the benefit of the AARP.
One of the musical numbers she performed was 'My Favorite Things' from the legendary movie 'Sound Of Music'. Here are the lyrics she used:
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >> > > > > > > > >
(Sing It!) - If you sing it, its especially hysterical!!!

Botox and nose drops and needles for knitting ,
Walkers and handrails and new dental fittings,
Bundles of magazines tied up in string,
These are a few of my favorite things.

Cadillacs and cataracts, hearing aids and glasses,
Polident and Fixodent and false teeth in glasses,
Pacemakers, golf carts and porches with swings,
These are a few of my favorite things.

When the pipes leak, When the bones creak,
When the knees go bad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don't feel so bad.

Hot tea and crumpets and corn pads for bunions,
No spicy hot food or food cooked with onions,
Bathrobes and heating pads and hot meals they bring,
These are a few of my favorite things.

Back pain, confused brains and no need for sinnin',
Thin bones and fractures and hair that is thinnin',
And we won't mention our short shrunken frames,
When we remember our favorite things.

When the joints ache, When the hips break,
When the eyes grow dim,
Then I remember the great life I've had,
And then I don't feel so bad.

She received thunderous applause, a 4 minute standing ovation and muliple encores!

Philippians 4:6-7

2008-08-30T16:36:00.000-07:00

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Slave Cuisine

2008-08-25T00:19:00.000-07:00

A lot of the foods that we eat here in the United States especially among the African American communities, have roots that stem from slavery.

Along with the African slaves kidnapped and brought to the U.S. in slaves vessels for the purpose of bondage came many foods that were native to their home environment. Records reveal that most of the slave cargo ships carried with them food goods directly from Africa for the enslaved passengers to consume during their journey across the Ocean.

Some ships carried foods central to the African diet, such as rice, okra, tania, black-eyed peas, cassava, yams, kidney and lima beans, peanuts, millet, sorghum, guinea melon, watermelon, and sesame (benne). The ship logs of the slave vessel Elizabeth, bound for Rhode Island in 1754, listed provisions of "yams, plantain, bread [cornbread], fish and rice."

Records from the slave ship Othello (1768-69) listed hundreds of baskets of yams taken on board as provisions along with lesser quantities of plantains, limes, pepper, palm oil, and gobbagobs (goobers or peanuts). However, most ships did not provide an adequate ration of these foods to last the entire journey. As a result many of the captives died.

Of course, the slaves on these ships were extremely fortunate. Other ships provided only small portions of rice and beans with a "slabber" sauce, made from old beef, rotten fish and salt, which was poured over the rice and beans in an attempt to fill the slave's stomachs. As you might have guessed, this often resulted in the death of many slaves from the obvious food poisoning. Its a wonder that only about 1/3 of the original captives on some ships actually made it alive to America.

However, as previously mentioned many crops that had been native to Africa made their way into the Southern cuisine and became staples on the slave menu.

The ordeals of the slaves were many. Many slaveowners did little to see to their comfort or well-being. For those who did, more often than not, it was not the result of any genuine concern for the slave per se. Rather, they had their own interests in mind since they viewed the slaves as an investment and their own livelihood depended on the ability of the slave to perform the free labor needed for the owner to prosper.

Despite this, many provided the slaves with just enough food to produce the energy to complete a day's work. Of course, in those days, the average workday was from sunrise to sunset. For many, this meant a full day of working in the fields performing hard labor in extreme weather conditions. Providing the slaves with just enough food for energy was a good case scenario. Many did not provide adequate rations of food to the slaves. Many slaves who tolled for the benefit of their Masters were nearly starved and subsisted only on meager helpings of food.

In most instances, the slaves raised crops and procured meats for the subsistance of the Master and his family and were not allowed to partake of these foods themselves. For instance, if they butcherd a hog or a cow, the Master would get all the prime cuts of meat such as the shank for ham, bacon, pork chops, steak and the like. The slaves would get all the parts of the hog or cow that the Master would not eat and parts that were traditionally thrown away such as the intestines, feet, neck, ribs(carcass), liver, ears, tongue, tails and such.

But God always has a way of turning something that Satan meant for bad into something good. From these scraps came the genesis of the African American cuisine that today is known as "Soul Food." Many of the sisters that were brought here from Africa brought with them their culinary talents that they had learned in the Mother Land which enabled them to turn the scraps they were given into something next to wonderful. After all, their very survival depended on it.

Hence came the creation of such dishes as chiterlings, pig feet, tails and ears, neckbones, barbeque ribs, hogshead cheese and ham hocks. Add to these, their native yams, okra, black-eyed peas other crops such as greens, rice and beans, it made for some good eating and became slave delicacies.

In addition, dishes make from grains such as skillet and hot water cornbread and grits became slave staples.

When they did get to eat more traditional cuts of meat, you were looking at some cooking. They created such dishes as smothered pork chops, glazed hams, steak with gravy, fried catfish, turkey and dressing and fried chicken.

At Christmas, many slaves described the killing of hogs, turkeys and chicken with plenty of side dishes and desserts to go around. However, during most of the year, this was not the norm. Normally, their food was rationed but again, the slaves made the best with what they were given.

Most of the dishes that the slaves conjured up are still being enjoyed today although many now have modified the ingredients because of today's health concerns, myself included. The prevalence of diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and heart problems especially amongst the African American population have caused many to substitute meats such as pork with chicken or turkey and grill rather than fry meats and vegetables.

Remember, slaves for the most part consumed pork because their survival and the survival of their future generations required them to do so. Prior to them arriving in America, many of them did not consume pork. Instead their diets consisted mainly of other small portions of other meats and mostly vegetables. Many Africans today still do not eat pork. Could our ancestors have known the adverse effects that prolonged consumption of pork could have on their bodies? The Bible, in Deuteronomy teaches it is unclean to consume swine or any animal that has divided hoof and/or chews a cud.

As for myself, I consume pork maybe 3 times a year, ham at Easter and Christmas and 4th of July Ribs. Other than that, it is turkey, chicken and fish, all cuts but I work these meats into the traditional dishes originated by African slaves.

Whatever, your preference, if you enjoy "Soul Food," you have the slaves to thank for its origin.

Psalm 146:5-7

5Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God:

6Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever:

7Which executeth judgment for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The LORD looseth the prisoners:

Grandma Margery Brittentine Lee and son Huey Lee

2008-08-24T18:33:00.000-07:00

Photograph of my GG-Grandmother, Margery Brittentine Lee and son Huey Lee in a deguerretype photo/postcard. On the back is written: Mrs. R.C. Lee and Master Hughie Lee(She was the wife of Richard Clyde Lee)Taken circa 1915-1917 since Uncle Huey was born in 1912. The frame surrounding the picture was digitally added as was the names on the photo. Click to enlarge

Margery(Margie) Brittentine Lee was born in about 1880. She was the daughter of Monroe and Sophia Gay Brittentine. She was one of about 12 children including Robert, Sidney, Esther, Eva, Ella, Lizzie and Jones, Phoebe, Promise, Punny and Ernest. She resided in the Plain Dealing/Rocky Mount,Louisiana area near Shreveport.

She married Richard Clyde Lee on January 27, 1894, the son of Betty Banks Brown Lee Smith and her 1st husband. Richard and Margery according to oral history met at their family church, Galilee Baptist Church. She reportedly sang in the choir. The ceremony was performed by an uncle, Reverand Allen Brown. It was a double wedding since Richard's sister Mary Eliza married Marcus Burton the same day. It was a Saturday wedding on more than likely a crisp winter day since the average high is about 56 degrees in that area during January.

Copy of their marriage liscense (Click to enlarge)

Margie picked a good husband. Not only was he extremely handsome but Richard was a hard-working man and a go-getter. He is listed on the census as doing farm work but also taught school at Galilee Baptist Church according to my late cousin Lizzie Neal Bagley of Detroit, Michigan who was one of his pupils. She also related that he was very educated and he and his wife Margery were regarded as 2 of the most upstanding colored citizens of the area.

By all accounts, Grandma Margie was a fine dresser. She and her husband were well to do and she dressed accordingly. According to family sources, she was a wonderful seamstress having sewn many of her own outfits.

She was also a wonderful homemaker. She and her husband lived in a grand home in Rocky Mount. They owned over 80 acres of land which still remains in the family.

Papa Dickie(Richard Lee) is said to have owned one of the nicest horse-drawn buggies in the area. He acquired hundreds of acres of properties in bossier parish some of which he purchased according to records from the DeMoss Family.

They were a strong God loving family who had deep Christian and family values that they passed on to their families.

Richard and Margery raised two sons, Robert Edward Lee (1897), my grandfather and Huey Lee (1912). Tragically, Margery miscarried approximately 6 other children including twins all of which were girls. According to her son, Huey Lee, all are buried in Galilee Cemetery in Plain Dealing surrounding the body of Mrs. Margery Brittentine Lee.

Their grief was kindled by the birth of their 1st grand-daughter, Johnnie Pearl Lee in 1918, the daughter of their son Robert and his wife, Annie Bell Johnson Lee. By all accounts, they loved her very much and spent a lot of time fawning over her. According to my Aunt Lizzie Neal Bagley, Johnnie Pearl’s cousin on her mother’s side, she spent most of her time and holidays with her “Papa Dickie” and “Grandma Margie.”

Richard died in 1926, cause of death unknown at the age of 54. Among the loved ones he left behind were Margery, his wife of 32 years, 14 year old Huey, 29 year old Robert and his mother Bettie.

According to my Grandpa Johnie, Grandma Margie developed breast cancer in the early 1930's. As a result, both of her breast were surgically removed. Unfortunatley, the cancer spread and Margery Brittentine Lee died on November 14, 1937. She is buried next to her beloved husband, Richard Clyde Lee in Galilee cemetery.

She was a fine woman who passed down some meaningful family values and I will always love her for it.

Rest in peace Grandma, until we meet someday!

Johnnie Willie Greene

2008-08-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

Here is a memorial page that I added for my Grandpa Johnnie Willie Green. I recently did a blog page on him in honor of his "Would Be 100th birthday" but I am now adding his image. To read more about him, please find his story under Green/Greene line

Please note that the items surrounding his photograph, i.e, coins and keys were some of his actual belongings. You can click on the photo to enlarge the image.

Colossians 3:1-2

2008-07-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Colossians 3:1-2

Bossier Parish Library Historical Library site updated

2008-07-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

I have been finding some wonderful things on the Bossier Parish Library Historical Library site! They have really updated the site.

I found pictures of ancestors and relatives on the site as well of a lot of other information that I did not previously know.

The site allows you to search their Collections database by putting in a keyword. This can include a surname, a place, subject or whatever else you might be looking for. It also allows you to do a random search of their photographs or other documents. It is a wonderful site.

You can assess it by clicking on the link in the lower left hand corner of this my site.

Malachi 4:2

2008-07-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall. Malachi 4:2

Fabulous Discovery in Texas-Another long lost relative reunited with his Ancestral Tree!

2008-07-18T14:55:00.000-07:00

Today, I had another amazing discovery. I finally found the death certificate for my Great, Great, Great Uncle Major Smith in Texas, a place that I would have never thought to look.

Click to view image

The reason I would have never thought to look in Texas is because his family was from the Plain Dealing, Louisiana area and because he is buried in the family cemetery with them. I have pictures of his grave. However, I was never able to find a death certificate or any other records of him for that matter. Much of the information that I have on him came via oral history from family members including his sister and my GGG-Aunt, Sally who lived to be about 106. She kept his memory alive. I actually have an original large oval framed photograph of him pictured with his brother, my gg-grandfather, Richard Clyde "Dickie" Lee. It is a beautiful photograph of two very handsome men which graces the wall of my dining room.

Even though I had a great deal of proof of his existence, I just never had any genealogy records on him before now. It was as if he left no paper trail of his life at all until now in Texas.

Again, I am so elated. The death certificate confirms some information that I already knew including the fact that he died young, at age 30. It lists his parents as Anthony Smith and Betty Banks which I also knew. However, it dispelled a lot of the rumors that previously existed regarding the circumstances of his death. The information that I always heard was that he was killed in a tragic car accident. However, according to his death certificate, he died of pulmonary tuberculosis while working in El Paso, Texas doing rail road work on January 21, 1923. It says he had only been in the area for 4 months. Apparently, he went there to earn money since although the Great Depression did not hit until 1928, times were still hard especially for african americans in the South so they often went where they could find work. He was listed as single which is also in contrast to some of the stories that he was married. It is still unknown if he had any children. His death still seems tragic to me and must have to his family with him dying at the age of 30.

I'm sure Uncle Major is smiling today because of the knowledge that his final story is finally known made possible by the release of vital records, today's technology and the Awesome Power and Will of God Almighty! I'm smiling too!

Major Smith January 1, 1893 to January 21, 1923

(Major Smith's grave in Galilee Baptist Chruch Family cemetery in Plain Dealing, Louisiana. Most likely placed much later after burial since Birth and Death information is incorrect on stone as if it was estimated by memory)

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost but now I'm found
Was blind but now I see!

Mystery of Long-Lost Relative Solved

2008-07-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I created a post regarding having discovered a "missing link," i.e. great uncle by the name of Edward L. Hines who lived and died in Texas.

After speaking to an Aunt who is somewhat of an authority on our family history, we figured out that my Uncle Edward L. Hines is actually the same person as my Uncle Erascus Hines. However, Aunt Jane never knew him as Edward L.

We came to this conclusion based on the particulars surrounding his death. Please recall, his death certificate indicated that his occupation was a Radio Tech. My Aunt Jane remembered that her Uncle Erascus owned a TV/Radio repair shop in Houston, Texas, the same place where this Edward L. resided. Also, his age, parents and the circumstances and date of his death matched exactly.

Aunt Jane reminded me that I had actually viewed Edward L. (Erascus) tombstone when we were in the family cemetery in the Frierson/Gloster, LA area some years ago. However, his tombstone gives his name as Erascus Hines. Maybe, the Edward L. Hines was his formal given name but the family called him Erascus which by the way was the name of one of his uncles or he did not like Erascus and decided to change it to Edward L. I'm not sure but I am pretty sure that we are dealing with the same person.

I am glad though that I was able to locate his death certificate because up until now, I had very little information on him.

Found: Long Lost Relative!

2008-07-16T16:05:00.000-07:00

Today, I made an amazing discovery on FamilySearch Labs. I located a long-lost relative, actually a great-uncle who had been missing from my family tree due to his early demise.

The subject in question is one, Edward L. Hines, who was the son of Isam and Cornelia Jefferson Hines, my great-grand-parents. Today, I found him hiding in the pages of death certificates in Houston, Texas. You see, he was born and raised in Friersen, Louisiana and up until now there was no prior information given to me putting him in Texas.

The way that I found him was I did a broad search under Texas Death certificates for individuals born in Frierson, LA who died in Texas. The search engine generated several names of other relatives mostly from my Brayboy line that also proved valuable. Although, I am grateful for those finds too, but at least I already knew that many of them had relocated to Houston. However, I did not know that Edward L. Hines, who was cousin to the Brayboys on his mother's maternal side, had followed them there. He was the stunner for the day!

His death certificate lists him as being born on August 20, 1903 in Frierson, LA and died on April 15, 1944 in Houston in route to Jefferson Davis Hospital of a ruptured esohageal vein with internal hemmorage and cirrosis of the liver. It says that he worked as a Radio Tech. At the time of his death, he had lived there for 8 years. The certificate indicates that he was the son of Isam Hines and Cornelia Jefferson of Louisiana. His sister Nelvin Hines signed the death certificate. His place of burial is listed as Shreveport.

I think he really wanted me to find him because up until now, I was beginning to doubt his existence. Now, I have proof the he lived through his death!

I am so elated! Now, I am going to be on a quest to find other records on him. I will let you know what I find!

Witherspoon/Pressley Acquaintance

2008-07-15T17:21:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago, I made an acquaintance with a Witherspoon descendent who had run across my website. His name is John Renning Phillips, a very nice gentlemen who I exchanged several emails with.

He has written a book called, "The Good Intent: The Story and Heritage of a Fresno Family.” His book has information about his father’s family, which includes the Witherspoon and the Pressley families of Williamsburg County, South Carolina so he thought I would be interested in reading it.

I am very interested and have started but not yet finished reading it. However, John brought it to my attention that the Pressley and Witherspoons have several connections including the marriage of Ann Pressley to marry James Witherspoon, the great-grandfather of Boykin Witherspoon.

John has documented the family’s journey in 1734 on the ship called “The Good Intent” from Ireland to South Carolina. The family was originally from Scotland.

John also confirmed with me information about the prestigious family line that the Witherspoons in particular descended from including John Knox (The Divine), Robert the Bruce, kinship to Mary Queen of Scots and modern day actress, Reese Witherspoon.

I am very grateful to John Renning Phillips for the information he has shared with me and look forward to finishing his book. In fact, another friend of mine says she had heard good things about it and planned to read it as well.

If you are interested in obtaining a copy, you can do so by clicking on to the link below.

http://books.google.com/books?id=JEYhPU7EtNAC&printsec=frontcover&dq=John+Renning+Phillips&sig=g4AbWYi7QesSG42ZQMwIu4inD3Y

Ladies of Freedom

2008-07-15T16:43:00.000-07:00

Lucretia Mott

Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Susan B. Anthony

As you know, there were many heroes who were instrumental in the struggle for freedom in America.

Among them were Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. All were at least at some point of the Quaker faith and were abolistionists. They were all anti-slavery activists as well as instrumental in the struggle for women's rights.

These women should be remembered for their invaluable contributions in the fight against slavery. They all stood up and spoke out against slavery even though at the time it was unpopular to do so especially by women who were in that time considered unequal to men.

Yet, they risked their lives and own freedom since some of them were at times jailed for their speeches and work against slavery and women's rights.

As I mentioned, there were many heroes in the struggle for freedom but God also used these very brave women to rally for the cause. As African Americans, we can should remember the thank these women for their contributions.

I will write a more detailed account of their contributions at a later date but wanted to give you some information on these women.

The Magna Carta in New York

2008-07-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

I forgot to tell you that when I was in New York a couple of weeks ago, there was a "Big Stir" about the news that the Magna Carta, Britain's foremost national treasure is coming to New York.

The Magna Carta which we all studied about in school but have probably forgotten is the document that set the global standard for religious freedom, trial by jury and other liberties that became the basis of human rights laws in Britain and eventually in the U.S.

In 1215, English barons forced King John to sign the Magna Carta - Latin for "Great Charter" - to limit the monarch's power after a series of abuses.

The 793 year old charter is set to arrive in New York at the Fraunces Tavern Museum in Lower Manhattan returning to the City for the first time since the 1939 World's Fair in Queens.

It is set to be on display for 90 days.

Happy "Would Be" 100th Birthday, Grandpa Johnie

2008-07-11T15:48:00.000-07:00

Memory page of Johnnie Willie Greene (Coins and keys surrounding his picture were some of his actual belongings) Click to enlarge

I would like to wish a Happy "Would Be" 100th Birthday to my Grandpa Johnie. He was born Johnie Willie Green(e) on July 11, 1908 in Bradley, Arkansas. He actually added the "e" on the end early on to distinguish himself from what he considered the "ordinary." It fit, because he was anything but ordinary.

He was a very rare and special person. He was the son of Edward Green and Recie Clayton Green Jackson. Although, he was born in Arkansas, the family relocated back to the Plain Dealing, LA area where both of his parents were from. His parents parted ways during his youth and his care was assumed by his Aunt Lucy Green Faye and her husband Ransom Faye who he described as a tough taskmaster. Grandpa Johnie was required to work the family farm instead of attending school so he taught himself to read and write and later enrolled in adult school upon reaching maturity.

Johnie met and married Johnnie Pearl Lee, the daughter of Robert Edward Lee and Annie Bell Johnson Lee Green. The couple became parents to my mother, Lottie Viola Green and Shirley Bell Green. Johnie also was father to William Green and Lucille Green. He was a wonderful father to all of his children.

Grandpa Johnnie relocated to California in the 1940's. Initially, he moved to the San Francisco Bay area cities of Oakland and Richmond where he worked in the shipyards and worked for a period for the Ford Motor Company. He also worked for a time in the agricultural industry picking tomatoes and other crops. He was a hard worker with an excellent work ethic.

He moved to Sacramento, California where he resided for many years and became a homeowner. Like him, his home was also distinctive! The inside of his house was filled with things that reflected his unique style. It was essentially a kid's paradise. He had a large collection of dolls, trains, cars, action figures and other toys that every kid longed to play with. However, for the most part, his toys were for looking at and not for playing with. In addition, he had a fascination with unusual gadgets like clocks that uttered animals sounds at the stroke of each hour, cans of peanuts that when opened, snakes jumped out and toilet seats that talked to you when you sat on them. His house was distinctive, indeed!

Christmas was a very fun time at Granpa Johnnie's. He decorated every inch of the exterior of his house with neon lights, life size Santas and all the trimmings that said Christmas.

During the rest of the year, the exterior of his home was also special. Grandpa Johnie because of his early rearing was an excellent Gardener. He had one of the most wonderful and bountiful gardens that I have ever seen. He grew large stalks of corn, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, greens, peas and many other delicious vegetables. In addition, he had apple and peach trees. He also had the most refreshing well water that you ever tasted. You could sit all day under his shade trees and drink his delicious water.

My Grandpa was also an excellent hunter. He knew how to live off the land. He could hunt pheasants, quails, rabbit or anything else that had the misfortune to cross his path. He was actually a very healthy eater which I know contributed to his longevity.

My Grandpa was one of my favorite people in the world. He was very special to me. I loved going to his house as a kid and he made me feel very special. As a kid, he referred to me and the "Lawyer" because he said I would argue with a "sign board." He referred to my younger quiet sister, Carla as the "Rabbit." Ironically, she was one that became the Lawyer.

My Grandpa loved coconut cakes so on his birthday when I was growing up, I would make him a coconut cake and walk it over to his house on July 11th, one of the hottest days of the year. I would get as much joy out of making it as he would eating it. It would last him all week!

Grandpa Johnnie retired from Bercut Richards cannery in Sacramento and soon after relocated to Fordyce, Arkansas in 1984. He lived there for many years. While there, he became a Jehovah's Witness and later an elder. He was very active in the Church and traveled to many Kingdom Halls in Arkansas to speak which was remarkable at his age.

He relocated back to Sacramento in January 2001 at the age of 92 and remained in excellent physical and mental state. He rode a recumbent bike daily, out walked most young people and his mind was as sharp as can be.

No one would have guessed that he had terminal cancer that had metastasized all over his body but in July 2001, it became apparent. He fought a good fight but inevitably, he lost his mortal battle with cancer on August 13, 2001 at the age of 93but remained spiritually victorious since his soul reunited with Christ.

Grandpa Johnie Willie Greene was quite a man. He was a gentle soul that would give you the shirt off his back. Everyone loved him both young and old. He was truly good person and it eminated from his very soul. Little children especially could see it as they were naturally attracted to pleasant manner.

He lived to see 4 generations of his seed. From his daughter, Lottie, her daughter, Sharon, her daughter, Shawndra and her son Pablo who he established a very special bond with. In addition, his daughter Shirley, her daughter, Cassandra, her daughter, Josylyn and her daughter, Alexis. That makes 5 generations living at the same time and before his mother passed, 6!

He was a very intelligent man of distinction. He prided himself in his dress. He was a very daper older gentleman who was always dressed color-coordinated. He also wore gold and diamond rings on every finger but his thumbs. He was quite a handsome fellow and it did not go unnoticed by the ladies even in his elder days.

I miss my Grandpa Johnie. Again, he was so special to me. He thought he would live to get 100 years old and so did I since his mother lived to be 111. He would have but God had other plans for my Grandpa.

Anyway, I am wishing him a Happy "Would Be" 100th Birthday. May the angels in Heaven throw you one of the biggest Birthday celebrations ever with trumpets and angelic voices loud enough to shake the foundations of the world!

By the way, in rememberance of your "Would Be" 100th Birthday, your daughter Lottie made you a cake!

African American Civil War Memorial

2008-07-10T19:01:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I wrote an article about the US Colored Troops. In it, I mentioned that Ancestry.com has a site you can search for your ancestors or other relatives who may have served.

I also want to tell you about the African American Civil War Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. The Museum which has a memorial sculpture that is surrounded by a memorial wall in remembrance of the contributions that these soldiers made.

The museum curators utilize photographs, documents and state of the art audio visual equipment to convey the heroic's of the soldiers in their struggle for freedom.

The Museum is located at 1200 U Street N.W., Washington, DC 20009 and is open Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Saturdays, 10 AM to 2 PM.

I was in D.C. about 3 years ago and as you probably know, there is a lot to see there so I did not get the chance to visit this museum but I plan to. If you are in the D.C. area, please make a point to see this museum. The contributions of these men are invaluable not only to African Americans but they influenced our current way of life in America.

Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

2008-07-10T18:23:00.000-07:00

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is located in Harlem at 515 Malcolm X Boulevard, New York, NY 10037-1801, 212-491-2200. It is a division of the New York Public Library and is a national research library devoted to collecting, preserving and providing access to resources documenting the history and experiences of peoples of African descent throughout the world.

I did not get the chance to visit the center this visit but felt compelled to tell you about it. It is a wonderful resource not only for researching family history but the black experience in general.

The center houses records and exihibitions of all types including books, art collections, historical documents, original photographs, film, videotape, audiotape and sound recordings of events, personalities and social/cultural movements.

You can literally spend not only the whole day but weeks and months, perusing the center's collection.

Scripture regarding all the Generations of Earth

2008-07-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:10

Sundays in Harlem

2008-07-08T21:05:00.000-07:00

For the past 8 years, whenever I visit New York, I spend my Sundays in Harlem. I start out by attending church service at the Abyssinian Baptist Church, the Rev. Calvin O. Butts, III, presiding. This Sunday was very uplifting. It was a celebration of freedom in honor of the 4th and 5th of July (African freedom in NY) and commemorated the 200 year church anniversary. The sermon was excellent and the choir angelic.

After church, I also go to Sylvia's Queen of Soul restaurant on Lenox Avenue where I partake in some of the most delectable southern cuisine around. This sunday, I had the catfish and grits with a side of collard greens as I decided to combine breakfast and lunch. It was soooooooo good. I made acquaintance with the famed but very down to earth proprietor, Mrs. Sylvia Woods who very graciously agreed to take a photo with me.

We also discussed the fact that we shared a common family surname, Pressley/Presley from South Carolina. I told her about how my great-great-great grandfather, Stephen Pressley who had been brought from South Carolina to Louisiana by the Witherspoon family. We both agreed that we probably were related somehow since we both come from a family of really good cooks.

Again, the food there is excellent so if you ever get a chance, please visit Sylvia Soul Food in Harlem.

I ended my day in Harlem by just walking around perusing the various shops and historical landmarks. The weather was beautiful and I did not want the day to end but unforturnately it had to.

Anyway, if you are visiting the New York area, Harlem is a must see.

African Burial Ground in New York City

2008-07-08T20:30:00.001-07:00

For those of you who do not know, an African Burial Ground was discovered in New York in 1991 during excavation work for a new Federal office building and workers discovered the skeletal remains of the first of more than 400 men, women and children.

These turned out to be the remains of formerly enslaved Africans who were buried in a 6.6 acre burial ground in lower Manhattan outside the boundaries of the settlement of New Amsterdam, which would later become New York.

Over the decades, the unmarked cemetery was covered over by development and landfill.

Since being uncovered, the site has now been declared a National Monument and has a distinctive memorial that commemorates the former slaves.

The artwork above is entitled, " UNEARTHED" and was done by artist, Frank Bender in 2002 in finished bronze with patina and is located at the Ted Weiss Federal Building, 290 Broadway, New York City. Frank Bender is a world renowned sculptor from Philadelphia, known for his work on forensic facial identifications, fugitive age progressions and fine art. His studio is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The subjects deplicted are recreations of the actual skeletal remains found in the Burial Grounds. Bender indicated that he held the eldest woman's scull in my hands and felt that she had endured the most. The younger woman with the bandana had been shot in the back. The young man in the background, the youngest and tallest of the three, is rising for the hope-filled future.

The sculpture is truly remarkable and a priceless memorial not only to these individuals but to the countless other former slaves long buried and forgotten whose voices now cry out to modern generations to remember their pain.

If you ever get a chance, please go visit this African Burial Ground in New York.

New Yorkers celebrated end of slavery on July 5th

2008-07-08T19:40:00.000-07:00

While visiting in New York over the 4th of July weekend, I learned that many African Americans there were celebrating the 181th anniversary of the abolition of slavery on July 5th, the day after the American Independence from Great Britain. In fact, New York was 2nd in the country besides South Carolina for holding the largest number of slaves which played a role in the building of New York.

Slavery officially ended in the state of New York on July 4, 1827 which was about 35 years before President Abraham Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment in 1865, abolishing slavery in the entire U.S.

On July 5, 1827, over 4,000 blacks in New York City marched along Broadway, preceded by an honor guard on horseback and a grand marshal carrying a drawn sword. The parade wound through the downtown streets to the African Zion Church, where the abolitionist leader William Hamilton declared, "This day we stand redeemed from a bitter thralldom."

African Americans in New York chose to celebrate the 5th of July versus the 4th of July for fear of violent threats from whites and because African americans were not actually freed in 1776.

While I was in New York this past weekend, The Lefferts Historic House, the former home to a family that owned 10 slaves was where one of the main events commemorating the freedom of countless slaves was held. The event attracted people of all background and featured music including the bang of drums and the rattle of gourds, and re-enactments.

Again, I learned something new this past weekend because while New Yorkers still celebrate Juneteenth like many other African Americans around the country in rememberance of Emanicipation from slavery, they also commemorate July 5th, since slavery came for New Yorkers on July 4, 1827.

Back from New York

2008-07-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

I have just flown back from New York. It was a wonderful retreat. I plan to tell you all about my trip and the things I did and learned pertaining to Genealogy.

I have made many trips to New York and this by far was one of the best! So much to do and I just feel revived, relieved and inspired!

I plan to go back soon and indulge more in the history of New York residents and in genealogy possibly presenting some genealogy seminars since what I have found in talking to people is that a lot of New Yorkers do not know their family history or about the contributions of their own ancestors to their area and the country as a whole.

Anyway, I will tell you more later.

Sweet Honey in the Rock

2008-07-05T20:56:00.000-07:00

Before I go to bed, I had to tell you about an acquaintance that I made today both at the productions of "Thurgood and Strange." It was 2 of the members of the Grammy Award-winning group, “Sweet Honey in the Rock. They are an African-American female a cappella ensemble that tours the country with gospel inspired music.

I met the group's co-founders, Carol Maillard, the lady in the top hat, kinte cloth neck wrap with boots and Bernice Johnson Reagon, the lady on the far right in the fuscia colored dress.

I had not had the pleasure of seeing them in concert yet but have heard astounding reviews of their performances and I promised the ladies that would see them as soon as they are in a city near me again.

They told me that they are in New York for 2 weeks rehearsing for a concert they are slated to do in December with the Alvin Ailey dancers. I might try to catch that.

Anyway, they were very nice and we seemed to be on the same schedule since I encountered them at both theatre performances. I took a picture with them but I will have to upload it when I get home.

If you get a chance to see them, please do so. Okay, for real, I'm off to bed now!

Passing Strange

2008-07-05T20:22:00.000-07:00

Well, I just got out of the Tony Award winning musical, "Passing Strange" and while I would not give it the applause I gave "Thurgood," it was entertaining yet a little strange.

It featured an all african american group of actors that performed to the beat of rock and roll music played by a predominantly white band with the exception of the lead guitarist/singer/narrator.

The gist of the story was the maturing of a young african american male musician at the coming of age who rebelled against his mother, God and society to find himself. He ended up first in Amsterdam and then Berlin where he experienced drugs, free sex, freedom of expression and self acceptance.

Despite his mother's attempts to reunite him with his family and religion in the US, he never returned except for her funeral which had a profound effect on him.

Again, it was entertaining. The actors were very talented as reflected by each of their portrayals of diverse characters.

After the show, I indulged in some Sorbet from a French restaurant called "Un, Deux, Trois", translated it means, "one, two, three". After that I took a slow stroll back to my hotel.

The streets are littered with theatre goers all dressed up for their shows as well as other tourists headed for shopping, dining, comedy shows and more. There is no place like New York. It truly is the City that never sleeps! Except, for me because I am off to bed so farewell for now.

2 thumbs and a pinky finger up for Thurgood!-An excellent Broadway Play

2008-07-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

I just witnessed one of the most powerful plays ever! The Broadway play that I am referring to is "Thurgood." It is a one-man play performed by the very talented Laurence Fishburne. It is playing at the Booth Theatre in New's York's Theatre District.

Lawrence did an excellent job of portraying the late former Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall. So good, that at times you forgot it was Fishburne instead of Marshall.

The play chronicles that late Marshall's rise from poverty in Baltimore to his prestigous legal achievements. It starts out talking about Marshall's genealogy. In particular, the origin of his name which he inherited from his great-great grandfather "Thorny Good" who was a slave brought over from Africa to the South but was freed before slavery ended at which time he relocated to Baltimore. Thurgood was himself originally named Thoroughgood but later shortened it.

The play also explains the influence on his life by his father and his decision to become a lawyer as well as his early brushes with racism. Fishburne recounts in the first person how Marshall worked as a waiter, pullman and later decided to go to law school.

The highlight of the play is when Marshall as a then lawyer prepares for, argues and await the decision of the famed Brown vs. Board of Education in which the Supreme Court did overturn the previous, "Law of the Land," "Plessy vs. Board of Education" which allowed for "separate but equal" policies for whites and minorities in the US in terms of education. The Supreme Court ruled in 1954, that the law was unconstitutional and allowed for integration in America.

Of course, this changed the lives of many African Americans including my mother, Lottie Green Burney who was a victim of the previous law. She recounted recently how growing up in the South, the colored schools in terms of school structures, books, supplies, lack of heating and transportation were far inferior to the white schools. In fact, she recalled that she never remembered having new books, pencils, or even chalk. She says that they always got the marked up books, broken pencils and chalks that the white school children had used years before.

Anyway, Fishburne should win an award for his amazing portral of Thurgood Marshall. The play reminds the audience of what an impact this great God-sent had on the lives of African Americans and other minorities in this county. I know the late Marshall is pleased with Fishburne's portrayal of him.

So, if you get a chance, I strongly recommend that you see it. Okay, I got to go now, I'm headed off to another play this evening, a musical called, "Passing Strange." I will let you know how it goes!

Happy 4th of July!!!

2008-07-05T07:57:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!! A day late but the sentiments remain the same. This year I am celebrating the 4th with a "Big Bang" live from New York City! Yesterday, I went to the famed Coney Island where they held an Annual Hot Dog eating contest. The winner, Joey Chestnut (ironically, the same surname affialiated with one of my ancestral lines) ate an amazing 64 hotdogs beating out the reigning champion in a first-ever tie-breaking round.! I did not eat quite so many but after sampling the also famed Nathan's "Dogs," I can identify with the contestants a little better.

The best part of my Coney Island experience was the beach area. I sat there for hours taking in the view of the waves, passing ships, the sea of umbrellas and people frolicking on the beach and in the water. The weather was perfect. I could have layed there for the week sipping on lemonade and the occasional Italian Ice.

I did not get on any rides this time but did stop and watch other people who did. Unfornately, that part of my day had to end so it was time to board the subway and head towards Battery Park near the Statute of Liberty to watch the annual Macy's Fireworks show.

It was spectacular and I had birds-eye view having arrived there early. This was one of the best fireworks show that I had ever witnessed! It featured a wide-range of pyro-technics that exploded into amazing fountains, UFO'S, happy faces and more. It was the perfect ending to an amazing day.

Then it was back off to Times Square to the hotel where I am staying.

Anyway, its Saturday and I'm off to explore the City today. Farewell for now.

Magnifying the Text on your Computer Screen

2008-07-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

Like a lot of my fellow Genealogists and other readers, as my years increase, my eyesight decreases. This is a realization that I am relunctantly admitting to. However, it has become more painfully apparent. I can no longer view the now seemingly tiny little print on certain sites and even in my blogs, I may proofread them several times and still overlook errors because of my declining vision but to the reader not aware of that, the reason for my errors may not be apparent.

You're probably thinking, time for glasses! And, you would be right but there is another alternative that I would like to share with you as a quick fix alternative.

If you hold down the "control key" and the " +" symbol located on the far right of your keyboard by the number pad simultaneously, you can magnify the text on your screen to make it more readable. Conversely, if you simultaneously hold down the
"control key" and the " -"symbol, you can decrease the size of the text.

Just a little tool I thought I would share with fellow genealogy buffs gracefully becoming visually impaired!

US Colored Troops-True American Heroes

2008-06-26T19:54:00.001-07:00

The United States Colored Troops (USCT) were regiments of the United States Army during the American Civil War that were comprised of African-American soldiers mostly former slaves.

The U.S. Congress passed a confiscation act in July 1862 that freed slaves of owners in rebellion against the United States, i.e. those states in the South that had seceded from the Union. Hence, a militia act was passed that empowered the President to use freed slaves in any capacity in the army.

In September 1862 Lincoln issued his preliminary proclamation that all slaves in rebellious states would be free as of January 1. Recruitment of colored regiments began in full force following the Emancipation Proclamation of January 1863.

The United States War Department issued General Order Number 143 on May 22, 1863, establishing a "Bureau of Colored Troops" to facilitate the recruitment of African-American soldiers to fight for the Union Army comprised of many regiments, including infantry, cavalry, light artillery, and heavy artillery units.

Former slaves and freed blacks rushed to sign up to secure the promise of freedom and deliverance from the life of bondage and oppression that so many knew. They were recruited from all states of the Union and became known as the United States Colored Troops (USCT). Approximately 175 regiments of over 178,000 free blacks and freed slaves served during the last two years of the war, and bolstered the Union war effort at a critical time. By war's end, the USCT were approximately a tenth of all Union troops. There were 2,751 USCT combat casualties during the war, and 68,178 losses from all causes.

The reason I am writing about and remembering these brave men is because Ancestry.com has a site that you can search for the names of your ancestors and other relatives who may have served. However, it does not stop there. A lot of the original documents contain personal information like who their former owners were, who to contact in case of an emergency, promotions, whether they were wounded, hospitalized or died. It is a virtual diary of their military experience. As such, I urge you to explore it and see what you come up with.

As mentioned in the title of this blog, these were true American heroes. These men put their lives on the lines not just for themselves but for the millions of other African Americans formerly enslaved and the countless number of future generations of African Americans in this country.

Their contribution to this country has over the years been mimimized, concealed and kept from even their own descendants and relatives. They received few accolades after the war in part due to the fact that many returned home to the bitter South still pining over the loss of the war and to those who did not care to hear about the heroics of blacks responsible for their sudden change in lifestyle. Hence, many former soldiers kept their service under wraps for fear of lynching or worse. Therefore, you would not have seen too many former soldiers marching around town in Union war uniforms or bearing medals. As well, there were no monuments in the South following the war commemorating United States Colored Troops.

As a result, the legacy of who they were and what they did for their country has to a great extent has been lost to even their own descendants and other relatives but
they should be highly regarded, saluted and honored for an eternity for their priceless contribution.

With that said, you can assess the site by going to the Ancestry.com opening page and then viewing all records under "Military Service" in the right sidebar. The database is listed towards the bottom under "U.S. Colored Troops Military Service Records, 1861-1865." Once you pull up and view the original document, you can click next at the top and you can view all the records on the individual.

Tribute:
To the US Colored Troops who have all now passed on to Glory-Thank you for your sacrifice and war efforts which have allowed so many to enjoy the freedoms that many of you early on were denied. Thank you for your willingness to lay down your lives for the benefit of countless others. You would be happy to know that your efforts were
not in vain. Many are still reaping the benefits of your selfless acts. May you enjoy the peace and freedom in heaven that you fought so hard to bring about for your fellow brothers and sisters on Earth. Eternally Grateful, Karen Burney

Juneteenth Celebration

2008-06-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend, thousands of african americans and others will celebrate Juneteenth across the country.

In case you don't know, Juneteenth celebrations began in this country, primarily in the Texas region in remembrance of when slaves in the United States were emancipated. The name comes from June 19th which is run together to form the word, Juneteenth.

On June 19, 1865, the Union soldiers led by Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas announcing the war had ended, and all those enslaved were now free! From that moment in Galveston, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day had spread across the United States and beyond. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

Today, Juneteenth’s national celebrations focus on African American freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures. In recent years, an increasing number of Juneteenth organizations have risen to take their place alongside older organizations with the mission to promote and cultivate knowledge and appreciation of African American history and heritage. As they continue to take on a more national and even global perspective, the events of 1865 in Texas are not only remembered, but celebrated.

My mother, Lottie Green Burney who grew up in rural Louisiana recalled that when she was a young girl, they never really celebrated the 4th of July because blacks were never really free in this country until the Emancipation Proclamation was passed. Hence, Juneteenth was a big day in the South. People would barbeque, do fish frys, put together dances, and just fellowship with with family and community while reflecting on what it meant to be free.

She recalled sitting around with the "Old Folks" listening to what some called "Slave Tales." At the time, she thought they were telling tales, like Peter Rabbit or Southern legends. It was not until later that she realized that they were not just "Slave Tales," but "Slave Truths."

African Americans have certainly come a long way in this country in the last century. While racial divide still exists, God has brought us from a mighty long ways. We are even at the point where we could have the first black president, Barrack Obama.

So in rememberance of Juneteenth, and all of those men and women both white and black who put their lives on the line to bring about freedom for all, I encourage you to attend a Juneteenth celebration in your area.

Here are some of the celebrations going on around the Country:

Sat - Jun 21, 2008
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Legions Hill Community Center
South Pardue
Vivian, LA 71082
Phone: (318) 455-1390 PRICE: free.
PHONE: (318) 375-4649 or 375-5730

Sacramento California
June 21 - 22, 2008
William Land Park
Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Free Admission

June 21 2008, 10:00am - 7:00pm
San Francisco, CaliforniaTomorrow,
Where: Civic Center Plaza Park
Polk, McAllister, Grove & Golden Gate
San Francisco, CA

Friday, June 13 at 1:00 PM
Park Strip (Anchorage, AK)
Mid-town, Anchorage
Anchorage, AK 99508

US

2008-06-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

Papa Isam and his Black Horse

2008-06-19T18:27:00.000-07:00

My paternal great-grandfather was Isam (Isham)Hines. He was the son of David and Mariah Pressley Hines and father to my grandmother Bessie Hines.

He was born and raised in and around Frierson, Louisiania in DeSoto Parish. He was one of at least 9 children so he was surrounded by a lot of family. His siblings Arthur, Bell, Phillice, David, Maria, Maria(Mariah), Mary and Richard.

As well, he had a big extended family as the Hines in Desoto Parish were and still are plentiful since his father, David also came from a big family and they all resided in that same community.

His maternal grandparents, the Pressleys also lived there. They were Stephen and Phyllis Pressley.

He met and married, Cornelia Jefferson Hines, the daughter of Issac and Jane Brayboy Jefferson. By all accounts, she was a tall, beautiful and strong woman. The 2 had 6 children together. She and Isam eventually parted ways but remained friends.

I never met my great-grandpa Isam but heard a lot about him from my father and other relatives. He was described as a very smooth dark-skinned man with the genes of Mother Africa definitely flowing through his blood. He was the darkest shade of ebony. His wife on the other hand, was very fair because of her african/native american and caucasian genes.

Isam and Cornelia were the parents of Bessie Hines Burney, Nelvin Hines Fuller, Jane Hines, Moeis Hines, Edward L.(Erascus) Hines and Mary Hines. As well, Cornelia had another daughter, Viola Nickleberry Henderson.

He later married a woman by the name of Sicily (Cecily). They resided primarily in the Shreveport area. On the 1930 census, he is listed as a Cotton Farmer and his 9 year grandson, Tom Fuller, the son of his daughter, Nelvin was residing with them.

The story that sticks out the most about Papa Isam is that he loved to ride his black horse, often even after nightfall came. One relative, Eliza Martin recalled that as a young girl, she would often see my dark-skinned Papa riding that black horse, at night with black clothing sometimes with a bottle of moonshine in hand at the end of a hard-day's labor. She remembered looking out the window and only seeing a streak pass as he galloped across land. She also shared that after he passed on that she would still see him streak across the acres on his black horse and say to her parents, "I just seen Papa Isam on his black horse," while they assured her that it was only "a little girl's imagination."

He passed on to glory on April 30, 1947. As said before, I never got the chance to met him but his memory has lived on trhough his children, grandchildren and other relatives who lovingly remembered him.

To Papa Isam:

Strong Black Nubian Prince, perched upon his black horse
Ride, ride until the sun sets and you finish your course
Ride high, ride proud, until the Lord calls your name
And you prance away, prance away & victory's proclaimed

Love always, Your great-grand-daughter, Karen Burney

Seed (offspring/descendent)scriptures

2008-06-06T18:22:00.000-07:00

Psalm 37:25
I have been young and now am old, yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken or their seed begging bread.

Psalm 89:4
Your Seed I will establish forever, and I will build up your throne for all generations.

Lamberton Genealogy Project

2008-06-03T17:41:00.000-07:00

The following is a Press Release from a gentleman connected with my Brayboy line.

Press Release
May 28, 2008
George Geder

Lamberton Genealogy Project

November 2007 was the beginning of a wonderful and productive relationship for me with the Robert E. Lamberton Elementary school of Philadelphia, PA. Their principal, Marla Travis-Jones declared the 2007-2008 school year's theme as 'Family History & Genealogy'. My wife, Cynthia and I flew from Santa Fe to present and speak to the students about ancestry.

We showed the kids the PBS program 'History Detectives' that featured my 2nd great grandfather John Stevenson, an African American Civil War soldier and veteran. Then we gave a PowerPoint presentation of my ancestors, telling stories and explaining genealogical research along the way. We had a delightful and illuminating Q&A session with the students and their parents. After two days, we returned home.

For the next six months, the students had genealogy projects to develop. In order to graduate from middle school to high school, they had to create a family history presentation. And create they did! Booklets, posters, computer discs, oral histories on audio tape, and even a dance interpretation of three generations of women in one family!

I returned to the school in May to witness - and judge - a collection of genealogical treasures that just blew me away. I could tell that many of the students had help from their older siblings, parents and relatives. No points were taken off for that. In fact, that was the big 'Gotcha' moment. The whole family got together on a genealogical project! Folks, it doesn't get any better than that!

The top ten students had to present to me. There was the typical talking too fast, too low, not facing the audience, stumbling, fumbling, etc. There was something else, also. There was pride, improved self-esteem, and an awareness and upliftedness that comes from learning and knowing your ancestry. One student learned that there are skilled tradesmen on his father's side and college graduates on his mother's side. Another student had prominent ancestors from Haiti. Others had world class boxers, jockeys and footballers to point to. One student could trace his ancestors back to the 1700's. All of the students couldn't wait to tell me what they found out about their families. We also digressed a lot, talking about hippies, yippies, Black Panthers and all kinds of things. We had big fun.

At this juncture, I want to report that the school has all the attributes of an inner city facility in crisis. I could tell that they were probably near the bottom of the list for resources. One of the security personnel drove me between the school and the hotel. He explained to me what a tough job he and the teachers had in keeping the children safe and providing an education at the same time. Their saving grace came in the form of their progressive and dedicated principal, Marla Travis Jones.

It was Mrs. Jones, inspired by the PBS program, who figured that one way to make a difference in her students' lives was to shine a light on their family histories and have that reflection be part of their academic well being. And they got it; the students, parents and teachers! Mrs. Barbara Feracco, an eight grade teacher with a passion for genealogy, assisted the students throughout the year and was surprised by and proud of the students' efforts and parental participation. I was more than appreciative of her help in narrowing down the field to the top ten projects.

Well, I am the Lamberton school's official genealogist. That's an honor I'll cherish and respect for a long time to come. I'm already planning my next visit!

George Geder

Peace,
"Guided by the Ancestors"
http://george-geder.blogspot.com

Coming soon to Louisiana Lineage Legacies -Jefferson family photographs!

2008-04-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

I have great news! An aunt(cousin) Jane sent me photographs of most of my Jefferson line including my Great-Great grandparents, Issac "Tooke" Jefferson and his wife Jane Brayboy Jefferson and another photograph of all their daughters which represents 6 of their 12 children.

I have heard about this family all my life and wrote stories about them based on family oral history and genealogical documents but I must say that a picture is worth a thousand words.

Being able to put a face with a profile is immeasurable. These photographs were in the family all along. That just validates what I have been saying for years, you have to check with ALL your family members especially the older ones to see what pictures may be hiding in their photo albums, closets or attics. It also proves the old addage, "Ask and You shall receive!

The pictures look to be taken around the turn of century in the late 1890 the early 1900's based on the style of dress. All 6 ladies in the one photograph are wearing high neck, ruffled and lacy collared dresses and blouses which were prevalent around that time as pictured below:

I am sorry to advise that I am not uploading them right now to the site but I will soon. However, I felt the need to share with you my good news but be looking out for them in the very near future.

Charlton Heston (Moses) passes away

2008-04-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

The Great Charlton Heston, the critically acclaimed and one of my favorite actors of all time passed away on April 4, 2008 at the age of 84 reportedly of the effects of Alzheimers.

Heston was born John Charles Carter in an unincorporated area between Evanston and Wilmette, Illinois, the son of Lilla (née Charlton) and Russell Whitford Carter, a mill operator.

Genealogically speaking, Heston was of English and Scottish descent and a member of the Fraser clan.

His passing was definitely a loss to many of his adoring fans including myself who were inspired by his life-long work. His best work in my opinion was in the late Cecille B. De Mille's, "The Ten Commandments."

Mr. DeMille's should also go down in history as having produced, directed and written the epic movie. He delivered on that end and Charlton Heston, again in my opinion became "Moses."

The story chronicles the journey of the Biblical hero, Moses' life from his humble entry into the world as an infant son of slaves doomed for execution by edict of the reigning Pharoah of Egypt to his basket journey across the Nile into the hands of his adoptive Egyptian Royal mother that landed him into the House of Pharoah. From there, Moses rises to power as a strong, young Mighty Warrior Prince smitten by a beautiful Egyptian princess, Neferteri and is destined to assume the title of Pharoah until his true identity is learned and he is exiled from Egypt. He finds the strength to make it across the desert into a distant land where he marries and lives amongst the descendents of Ishmael until God speaks to him in the form of a "Burning Bush" on a high mountain and ordains him to lead the Hebrew people out of the bondage of Egypt. He does return to Egypt and following many God sent plagues and against strong opposition of his once brother, Ramses, leads a nation out of bondage across a parted Red Sea to receive "God's Ten Commandments" for living a good life only to have them lose faith and sin against God so they are made to wonder in the desert for 40 years until the ones that sinned died off. You may be thinking, I nailed that summary of the movie. If so, that is because I have literally seen the movie over 100 times since I own the movie and watch it at least 10 times a year.

This movie written in 1956 was spectacular in every way, shape and form. The setting, the scenes, the costumes and especially the actors. Highest honors in that regard as mentioned above goes to Charlton Heston. He was the central character, Moses and his fabulous portrayal of that role made the epic movie what it was. In the process, he touched many hearts and souls including mine and undoubtedly lead as many people to Glory and delivered them from the bondage of sin in real life as he did in his portrayal in the movie. I believe and pray that he is sitting on the right hand of God as we speak!

He leaves behind his wife, Lydia and the world who was blessed by his presence in the world and will forever cherish his memory.

Witherspoon Wills

2008-04-09T18:27:00.000-07:00

I found these wills belonging to Boykin Witherspoon's grandparents on a site entitled

"SLAVES OF SOUTH CAROLINA RELIGIOUS DISSENTERS." Boykin Witherspoon was from Darlington County, South Carolina and was the slaveowner of my ggg-grandfather, Stephen Pressley who was born in 1820 so the transactions below took place before his time but some of the bequeathed slaves might have been been his ancestors but I have not yet established that. If you know of a connection, please advise.

Slave Name: Ceasar , Willed to David Witherspoon son of David Witherspoon
Will of David Witherspoon dated 9 Jan 1759 proved 4 Oct 1759

Slave Name: Jack Bristow, Willed to John Witherspoon son of Gavin Witherspoon
Will of Gavin Witherspoondated 6____ 1778prove 1778

Slave Names: Saul, Jemmy, Sue with her two children Isaac & Sue, Pamila, Diana with all their increase Willed to Mary Donnom daughter of James Donnom
Will of Ruth Witherspoondated 22 Nov 1763proved 26 June 1764
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PRESSLEY/WITHERSPOON CONNECTION

2008-04-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

My ggg-grandfather, Stephen Pressley was owned by the Witherspoon family, in particular, Boykin Witherspoon. According to family oral history, he was a Witherspoon during slavery but changed his name to Pressley after slavery ended which some say was actually his wife, Phyllis surname from perhaps a former slavemaster.

I ran across the McKee/Witherspoon family history and it revealed that an Ann Pressley married a James Witherspoon who was a cousin to Boykin's father, John D. Witherspoon as follows:

90. Ann13 Pressley (Sarah12 Witherspoon, David11, John10, David9, James Alexander8, Alexander7, John6 Wedderspone, Alexander5 Wedderspoyn, Andro4, William3 Wethirspoon, James2 Wydderspoon, Alexander1 Wetherspun) She married James Witherspoon, son of James Witherspoon and Elizabeth McQuoid. He was born 1743 in Williamsburg County, South Carolina, and died 1790 in Williamsburg County, South Carolina.

Based on the above, this may be how the Pressley and Witherspoon slaves crossed paths. Perhaps, Boykin inherited or purchased slaves bearing the Pressley name from his Aunt by marriage, Ann Pressley Witherspoon. That is one theory but I still have not yet located documents to confirm it so my search continues.

2008 Pressley Reunion

2008-04-08T20:07:00.000-07:00

The Presley Family Reunion dates are August 1-3, 2008 in Houston, Texas for the Presley families originating from Desoto Parish, Louisiana and South Carolina.

Please contact me for additional contact information.

Slaves in the Carribean Islands

2008-04-08T18:02:00.000-07:00

For those of you that are of Carribean or British West Indies ancestry, Ancestry.com has a massive search site which lists the names of former slaves as well as their slave owners.

It is listed as below under:

Slave Registers of former British Colonial Dependencies, 1812-1834 Census & Voter Lists Antigua and Barbuda.

To get to the site,
1. Pull up Ancestry.com's main page
2. Click search all databases
3. Click on "Slave Registers of former British Colonial Dependencies, 1812-1834"
4. Enter slave's surname and/or first name
5. You can narrow your search by colony dependency and/or parish

Coloney dependencies search options include Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Berbice, Dominica, Grenada, Honduras, Jamaica, Mauritius, Nevis, Sri Lanka, St. Christopher, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Tobago, Trinidad and Virgin Islands.

This is a great site and an invaluable resources for those of you in search of your Carribean ancestry.

Our family Cars

2008-04-03T18:51:00.000-07:00

1965 Chrysler New Yorker like the one my parents owned except they owned a brown one and later a burgundy one

1958 Dodge like ours except ours was PINK

I recently encountered a piece written by my cousin, Craig Manson on his blogsite, GeneaBlogie regarding the vehicles his parents owned while he was growing up. It inspired me to do a piece as well on the same subject. Afterall, we as families spend a great deal of time in our vehicles creating memories inside them or on our way to memorable events.

Among the vehicles that my parents owned was a 1958 Dodge and we took many cross country trips in the early 60's to Louisiana in it. They later upgraded to a brown Chrysler New Yorker and later a 1965 Burgundy Chrysler New Yorker with matching leather interior with cruise control and all the other "Bells and Whistles" of that era. We kids referred to the rear of the 1958 Dodge as having "Bat Wings" because it resembled the rear of the "Batmobile" on the then hit show, "Batman." We didn't realize we were riding in luxury.

As mentioned above, for most people, those vehicles hold a lot of nostalgia and creates another "vehicular" aspect or angle of family history.

My father, Jewel Burney loved to drive, whether it was a leisurely Sunday afternoon drive or a long-distance trek across the country, it seemed to relax him and bring on a level of peace.

Some of our more local destinations included many Saturday trips up to Roseville, California to the Denio's Farmers' Market and Auction which has been around since 1946. For those of you not familiar with it, it is a mecca for fruits and vegetables, leather goods, clothing and just about anything you could possibly think of at bargain prices.

We were a family of 9 including my parents when all the children were at home and in addition, my parents regularly entertained brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews, friends and anyone else my father seen fit to invite home to partake of his wife's good cooking. Hence, those 20 mile car trips to Roseville not only provided leisurely quality family time but was well worth the trip for the fresh bargain fruits and vegetables and other food goods for their massive dinner menus, school clothing and supplies, car parts, ice cream cones and my favorite, pony rides.

My dad also drove us to the Zoo a lot. Again, the car drive on the way to Zoo was just as memorable as the Zoo itself. I can remember conversations we had, songs we sang and the many funny things we did.

One game we would play is "Pee-Wee Punch". The object of the game was for each child to identify as many Volkswagon Beetles (VW's) as possible on the way to our destination. We used our fingers to keep track. The winner was determined by whomever had pointed out the most "VW's by yelling, "Pee Wee Punch" by the time we reached our destination. The person was simultaneously "punched" usually in the arm. This was especially fun on long distance trips.

Another game that we played was whenever we crossed railroad tracks, each child was required to cross some bodyparts, i.e. their fingers, toes, legs, arms, lips, eyes,etc. If you were caught by another not crossing something when you crossed over the railroad tracks, someone identified it, and you were pinched. However, if you were actually crossing something like your lips, eyes or some other bodypart and they pinched you, you could pinch them back twice. We bruised each other up a lot playing this game and gave our parents a lot of headaches in the process.

Another trip, we would take a lot in the car was to the Bay Area home of my father's sister Gladys who was a WONDERFUL cook. Again, the drive down was one of the best parts of the experience. The drive from Sacramento to Richmond, CA is very scenic. We just loved to take in the beautiful mountain ranges, pastures, houses atop hills, waterways, bridges as well as the roadway as our car lapped the miles. As a family, we would point out to one another a breathtaking view, a sunset or even a cow. They seem simple but they were memorable.

A more long distance trip that we took several times in the 1960's were our road trips to Louisiana where both my parents grew up. Now, I got to be honest with you, here. The only real memories that I have of these is the packing up of the vehicle, climbing in and hitting the freeway because once we got about 20 miles down the road, all the children in the car were fast asleep. Mind you that it is at least a 36hour trip making good time since I drove it many times since as an adult. However, as a kid, the only thing I remember was getting in the car and waking up there. But again, as mentioned earlier, the car got us to that destination that brought us many memories. Those memories included spending time with my grandmother, Johnnie Pearl and her mother, Anne Bell Green whom we called "Big Mama and all the family dinners and conversations that went along with the trip.

I know you are probably wondering how on earth all 9 of us fit into that 5 person 1958 Dodge. Well, in case you didn't know it, there were no seatbelt or carseat laws back then. Hence, the going rule was "you get in where you fit in." That meant, everybody squeezed together to in order to accommodate each other. The usual and customary order and sitting arrangement was: My dad and mom in the front seat with 2 small children in between and my mom holding a baby, 4-5 children sitted in back with another child sitting on their lap if need be, and up to 2 children sitting on rear floor board. As I mentioned earlier, there were nine of us and often cousins and friends tagged along.

So as you can see, cars are one common and important place where family memories are made. I hope this article inspires you to reflect back on the family memories you had in your family vehicle!

HAPPY 75TH BIRTHDAY MOTHER

2008-03-31T17:39:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, March 29, 2008, we celebrated the 75th birthday of my mother, Lottie Burney in Las Vegas, Nevada at the Mirage Hotel.

I did a poem as a tribute to my mother. She was very happy with both the poem and the party.

People came literally from all over the country to honor my mother on her special day. This included family and close friends that she had crossed paths with over her life time. Some of the friends, she had known since early grade school! She is just one of those people that when she makes a friend, you are a friend for life! She is also very special to all of her family because she is just a naturally sweet person.

It was so nice to see all of the people come out to celebrate my mother. I know it meant a lot to her. There were lots of tears of joy but mostly a lot of laughter and smiles.

There was a video in which she recalled the journey of her life. It was very moving. She grew up in rural Louisiana during a time when racial tensions were high and she recalled how the 1960's civil rights movement never made it to her hometown. It remained very segregated and oppressed. It forced her family to relocate to California where for the 1st time, she attended school with all races of people. She was so overjoyed. Anyway, the short of it was that she have experienced a lot in life good and bad but she has learned to find joy in the midst of sorrow especially during her Golden Years!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM AND MANY MORE!

Easter 2008

2008-03-26T19:19:00.000-07:00

Easter came early this year on Sunday, March 23rd but I am late writing about it.

It started with me arising to the sound of the television ministries and sounds of praises around the world.

In honor of this very holy occassion, I read the story of Christ's journey to the Cross, his Crucifixion and Resurrection.

The previous week leading up to Easter, I attended a week long annual City-Wide Revival at St. Pauls Baptist Church. The event ended on Good Friday with a soul-stirring evening of praise, worship and sermon by a visiting pastor.

Praises went up and blessings and the holy spirit came pouring down!

It is so awesome to me to think about how many generations of not only my family but sooo many other family have been praising God around the world for over 2,000 years on Easter Day!

The day gives hope to multitudes of people, brothers and sisters of various colors, races, creeds and tongues who have a chance at eternal life through the blood of Christ. How awesome!

Imagine, finally meeting the long-lost ancestors that you have been researching for so many years? It was made possible all those many years ago with a selfless act by the Lamb of God!

I just want to say, thank you Christ for dying an agonizing death on a cross for the sins of mankind. I love you always. YOU LIVE!

Louisiana African American Heritage Trail

2008-03-25T19:34:00.000-07:00

A friend recently shared with me some information regarding Louisiana African American Heritage Trails.

Apparently, Louisiana tourism officials have unveiled the first 26 sites on an African American Heritage Trail running from New Orleans to northern Louisiana.

According to Chuck Morse, assistant secretary of the Louisiana Office of Tourism said in a recent article, "It will tell the stories of African Americans who have made contributions to Louisiana, to America and to the world."

However, it is a means of boosting the economy.

Initially, there will be 26 stops on the trail but there are plans for expansion.
The trail tours will include plantations with details about slaves' lives, and the early roots of jazz and unexpected stops such as Melrose Plantation, built and owned and operated by a former slave, who in turn became a slave owner.

Heritage tourism trails are routes that lead visitors to specialty points of interest. They constitute a fast-growing type of tourism, Morse said. Louisiana is in the process of developing a series of such trails, ranging from a Culinary Trail to a Civil War Trail.

These tours are designed to attract travelers who are seeking the authentic American experience offered through cultural and heritage tourism.

Other places on the trail include the Hermione Museum in Tallulah, which is currently hosting an exhibit on the famously successful hair-care entrepreneur Madam C.J. Walker, who was born in Delta, Louisiana, in 1867, shortly after slavery ended; the state capitol in Baton Rouge, where, in the 1870s, P.B.S. Pinchback briefly served as the first black governor in U.S. history; and Congo Square, in New Orleans, where slaves were permitted to assemble on Sundays. The St. Augustine Catholic Church in Natchez, Louisiana, and the St. Augustine Church in New Orleans' Treme neighborhood have both been spiritual centers for the black community for generations. Grambling State University in Grambling, and Southern University in Baton Rouge, both traditionally black colleges, are also on the list. The schools celebrate their rivalry at an annual football game called the Bayou Classic.

Some of the sites on the trail are associated with prominent individuals, such as the great gospel singer Mahalia Jackson's grave in Providence Park Cemetery in Metairie; and the Arna Bontemps African American Heritage Museum in Alexandria, the family home for a writer who went on to become important in the Harlem Renaissance.

Other places on the trail in New Orleans are the New Orleans African American Museum, St. Louis Cemeteries No. 1 and No. 2, the French Market and the Amistad Research Center. Elsewhere in the state, the list also includes Laura Plantation, Vacherie; Evergreen Plantation, Wallace; River Road African American Museum, Donaldsonville; Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum, Hammond; Port Hudson Battlefield, Jackson; the African American Museum, St. Martinville; the Black Heritage Art Gallery, Central School Arts and Humanities Center, Lake Charles; the Creole Heritage Folk Life Center, Opelousas; the Cane River Creole National Historic Park-Creole Center, Natchitoches; the Multicultural Center of the South, Shreveport; Southern University Museum of Art, Shreveport; and the Northeast Louisiana Delta African American Heritage Museum, Monroe.

It all sounds very interesting and being a Louisiana native, I plan to explore the new tour. I will let you know how it goes!

Prince Burney

2008-03-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

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Prince Burney was born around 1830-1834 according to the 1870 and 1880 census in Florida. At the present time, I do not know who his parents were but I do know that he was of native american ancestry according to his son and my great grandfather, Anderson Burney who himself was said to resemble an Indian Chief. Prince is listed on the 1880 census as Mulatto. Please note that Native Americans were often listed as mulatto on census records. I do know from census records that his mother was born in South Carolina.

He relocated to the Brundidge/Monticello area of Pike County, Alabama where he and his family resided until his death.

Prince married Jennie Burney who was born in Georgia and I am not sure at this point what her maiden name was. What I do know is that had at least 8 children including Charlotte, Sarah, Caroline, Elbert, Levi, Anderson, Nancy, Lula and possibly another girl named June.

Prince was listed in census reports as a farmer while Jennie kept house.

What is also unclear at this point is how they got to Alabama. In particular, were they brought as slaves or came as freed persons of color. According to oral family history and census records, Jennie was of african american origin.

All evidence thus far points to them being slaves at some point although for Prince at least it might not have started out that way. I researched and found that a wealthy slaveowner by the name of Guilford Burney was living in the same area of Pike County, Alabama where Prince resided. He married another native Georgian Catherine Dixon on 6/4/1834 in Leon county Florida and some of their children were Susan, Mary, Frances,Josephine,Marshall, Richard, and Alonzo. Most interesting is the fact, that he was born in Georgia, the same place as Prince's wife Jennie but later relocated to Leon county, Florida in the Tallahasee area where Prince was born and then to the Brundidge area of Pike County just like Prince. The 1860 census in Pike County, Alabama shows he owned 32 slaves. There are 2 male mulattos listed who could have been Prince but the schedule only lists the age, gender and race of the slave.

Guilford came to Pike County between 1834 and 1840, I believe because his wife had family in the area since I found other Dixons from Georgia in the small Brundidge area of Pike county. This theory is also consistent with Dixon descendent forum page information I found. It is possible that they brought both Prince and Jennie with them. Jennie may has been a slave inheritance of his wife while Prince may have been captured or inherited by Guilford since he bore his surname, Burney. I found a record in 1836 in which Guilford was executor of the estate of Ellis Burney in which slaves were distributed among the heirs but Prince's name was not on it.

The reason I suggest that Prince may have been "caputured" is because of the native american ancestry. Indians were often hunted down and captured and forced into slavery. Also, since I know that he was born in Florida and was of indian origin, it is well documented that the 2nd of a series of Seminole Wars took place in that area from 1835 to 1842 in the the Tallahassee area, where Guilford was from.
The Seminole nation came into existence in the 18th century and was composed of Native Americans from Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama, most significantly the Creek Nation, as well as African Americans who escaped from slavery in South Carolina and Georgia. While roughly 3,000 Seminoles were forced west of the Mississippi River, including the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, who picked up new members along their way, approximately 300 to 500 Seminoles stayed and fought in and around the Everglades of Florida.

The surname Burney appears repeatedly on the DAWES FINAL ROLLS OF CIVILIZED TRIBES. These rolls contain names of those Indians who RECEIVED LAND under the provisions of the Dawes Act. There are multiple Burneys listed under the from the Creek, Chowtaw and Cherokee tribal lists. The Surname Prince, also appears multiple times. Creek Choctaw and Cherokee. I mention this because it is possible that Prince's surname may have been taken from his mother's maiden name which was common practice at that time.

It should also be noted that Pike County in general was Creek territory.
Pike County was created in 1821 from lands ceded by Creek Indians in Treaty of Ft. Jackson, 1814. The Creeks were the largest, most important Indian group living in Alabama. They called themselves “People of the One Fire”. The English traders called them “Creeks” because their villages were built primarily along creeks and rivers. In the early days, most of the Creek villages were in Georgia. However, with the arrival of the English colonists in 1730, the majority of the Creek nation was forced to join their relatives who had taken residence in the “western wilderness” which would eventually become known as “Alabama”. The name “Alabama” was taken from the “Alibamos” Indians, the first Creek tribe to populate the region.

At this point, a lot of questions still remain about his exact indian heritage but I am determined to continue to track his journey from slavery to freedom. One thing is certain, Prince Burney left a tremendous legacy that is evidenced by his children, grand-grandchildren and current descendents. His seed has multiplied in great numbers and are spread across the United States, east and west and north and south. His blood courses through our veins and his memory takes hold of our very souls!

The last record that I found on him was on the 1900 census. He was not on the 1920 so I believe his death must have occurred between that 10 year span. In body, he passed on to Glory but his memory and legacy lives on her through descendents.

Rest in peace, Grandfather, to us you were a Prince Amongst Princes!

The Tortoise and the Hare-Crockpot vs. Microwave

2008-03-14T18:27:00.000-07:00

Here is a tip I would like to share with you regarding cooking for the busy modern family.

I have an ongoing debate with some of my family and acquaintances regarding the best cooking method for working and multi-tasked chefs.

THE HARE: A lot of people prefer the speed of a microwave for preparing quick dishes. I guess this is a great way to go if you have had a busy day and just want something right away. However, in most instances, you compromise quickness for taste.

THE TORTOISE: I prefer a crockpot. Why? You can just load it full of your favorite ingredients at night or before you leave for work and return to a delicious savory meal that tastes like Grandma cooked it. In addition, in the end, it is faster than waiting for seemingly quicker microwave. How? It cooks your food all day but when you get home, it is done, hot and waiting for you because most crockpots have a warming mechanism. Hence, the "Tortoise" analogy because you do not have to even zap your food in a microwave, because it is already hot and ready.

Try it and you be the judge and see what works best for your family.

The Lords Prayer

2008-03-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

This is the prayer that Jesus taught us to pray and it has been handed down from generation to generation.

Matthew 6:9-13

9.....Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Dessie Lee Patterson, S. Mansfield Mayor murdered

2008-03-13T19:02:00.000-07:00

Dessie Lee Patterson, Mayor of South Mansfield, Louisiana in Desoto Parish, was recently slain on Tuesday, March 11, 2008. The 88 year old was brutally stabbed to death by suspected killer, Bobby Harris for $200 in $1 bills.

The small amount of money he took makes it even more senseless and tragic.

Mayor Dessie Lee Patterson became the state's first black female mayor on March 14, 1971 when she was appointed to fill an unexpired term in the village of South Mansfield. Her term was set to expire in December 2008.

Prior to becoming Mayor she was involved in politics and community activism decades earlier. Patterson was one of the pioneers in the Civil Rights Movement in the local area. She joined federal officials in the 1950s and 1960s to encourage blacks to vote since elections in South Mansfield even were hampered by the lack of registered voters.

I did not know the lady personally but her story touched me and senseless murder saddened me especially since she was from the ancestral parish of my father's maternal line.

She was described as a sweet-spirited person who gave her life for this community and worked tirelessly in her role as Mayor.

I'm sure that she will be missed but by all accounts, her memory and legacy will not be soon forgotten.

May you rest in peace!

New York's 1st times two!

2008-03-12T18:30:00.000-07:00

Lt. Gov. David Paterson is expected to succeed disgraced Gov. Eliot Spitzer who is expected to resign following a sex scandal.

In doing so, Lt. Gov. David Paterson will not only become the first black governor of New York but since he is legally blind, he will also become the 1st blind and disabled governor since Franklin D. Roosevelt.

53-year-old Paterson is a native New Yorker and is the son of former state Sen. Basil Paterson who also the 1st black to hold the office of Secretary of State.

By all accounts, Paterson is up for the task despite his handicap.

ANCESTRAL COUNT

2008-03-11T17:41:00.000-07:00

As the generations passes, every person's ancestors doubles as follows:

(1st generation) YOURSELF 1
(2nd generation) PARENTS 2
(3rd generation) GRANDPARENTS 4
(4th generation) GREAT-GRANDPARENTS 8
(5th generation) 2G GRANDPARENTS 16

(6th generation) 3G GRANDPARENTS 32
(7th generation) 4G GRANDPARENTS 64
(8th generation) 5G GRANDPARENTS 128
(9th generation) 6G GRANDPARENTS 256
(10 generations)7G GRANDPARENTS 512

(11 generations) 8G GRANDPARENTS 1024
(12 generations) 9G GRANDPARENTS 2048
(13 generations) 10G GRANDPARENTS 4096
(14 generations) 11G GRANDPARENTS 8192
(15 generations) 12G GRANDPARENTS 16,384

(16 generations) 13G GRANDPARENTS 32,768
(17 generations) 14G GRANDPARENTS 65,536
(18 generations) 15G GRANDPARENTS 131,072
(19 generations) 16G GRANDPARENTS 262,144
(20 generations) 17G GRANDPARENTS 564,288
---------

TOTAL NUMBER OF ANCESTORS 1,048,574

That means that every person at least the ones living now has had 1,048,574 ancestors in the last 20 generations. That is a lot of grandparents. So, as you can see the likelihood of one person being related to the next is highly probable.

African American Family History Seminar

2008-03-10T17:46:00.000-07:00

The 3rd annual African American Family History Seminar took place on March 8,2008. It was a resounding success! We had a great turnout in terms of attendees. The keynote speaker was Ugo Parego with the Sorenson Foundation and he did a wonderful job. In addition, on behalf of the Sorenson Foundation provided free DNA testing to all interested attendees including myself. I can hardly wait for my results!

I taught a class this year, "Using Genealogy to Plan Your Family Reunion" and my class was almost full to capacity. As well, I got a lot of positive feedback.

Also, in attendance was news media staff, Karen Massie and Dana Howard.

I was on the planning committe for the event and everything flowed pretty much as planned with few unexpected occurences.

I am already looking forward to next year's event!

Clay Family

2008-02-28T17:22:00.000-08:00

Click to changing of this tree through the generations!

At this point in time, I know very little about my Clay family Line. This line is different from my CLAYTON line. What I do know about the Clays is that my great-great-grandmother, Mary Clay, a former slave of South Carolina married my gg-grandpa, Levi Green also a former slave on September 24, 1872 in Bossier Parish. According to the 1870 census, she was born around 1830.

They resided in and around the Plain Dealing, LA area.

I know that she had two brothers, William and Hill Clay who also lived in the area.
There were other Clays living in that area and in the neighboring Caddo Parish but at this point I do not know if they were related.

I also do not know who their parents were but her parents must have been in Louisiana at some point because although she and her brother William were born in South Carolina, Hill Clay was born in Lousiana.

Mary Clay Green was the mother of at least 8 children, Rebecca Green Goodman, Julia, Antonio, Mary, Parthenia, Lucy Green Faye, John and Edward (My grandpa).

My grandpa Johnnie Greene told me that my grandma Mary Clay Green was at least part native american and very beautiful.

Anyway, my search continues in search of my Clay family roots.

Here are some of the records I have found on the Clays in Bossier

1880 Census

Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace
William CLAY Self M M B 35 SC
Occ: Laborer Fa: SC Mo: SC
Jane CLAY Wife F M B 35 LA
Occ: Laborer Fa: KY Mo: VA
Young CLAY SSon M S B 16 LA
Occ: Laborer Fa: LA Mo: LA
Allice CLAY SDau F S B 14 LA
Occ: Laborer Fa: LA Mo: LA
Green WILLIAMS Other M S B 16 LA
Occ: Laborer Fa: --- Mo: TX
Jinny JEFFERSON Other F S B 30 LA
Occ: Laborer Fa: AL Mo: SC

Census Place: Township 22, Bossier, Louisiana
Source: FHL Film 1254448 National Archives Film T9-0448 Page 6C
Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace
Hill CLAY Self M B 25 LA.
Occ: Laborer Fa: SC. Mo: SC.
Liny CLAY Wife F M B 20 LA.
Occ: Laborer Fa: KY. Mo: KY.
John CLAY Son M S B 7 LA.
Occ: At Home Fa: LA. Mo: LA.
Wash CLAY Son M S B 5 LA.
Occ: At Home Fa: LA. Mo: LA.
Elizabeth CLAY Dau F S B 4 LA.
Occ: At Home Fa: LA. Mo: LA.
Arch CLAY Son M S B 2 LA.
Occ: At Home Fa: LA. Mo: LA.

CLAY MARRIAGES IN BOSSIER PARISH

Buelah Campbell AND Wm Henry Clay MARRIED 13 Jun 1878

Arch Clay AND Charlotte Woodard MARRIED 26 Aug 1873

Henrietta Clay AND Tom Yates MARRIED 9 Aug 1875

Lena Clay AND Walter William MARRIED 19 May 1888

Mary Clay AND Levi Green MARRIED 24 Sep 1872

Tenny Clay AND Samuel Jones MARRIED 24 Jan 1882 Bossier

CLAY DEATHS

They are listed by Name, Death date, Birth yr, Parish and death date

Archie Clay 16 May 1931 1848 Bossier 83

Carrie Clay 24 Aug 1915 1902 Bossier 13

Henry Clay 23 May 1931 1895 Bossier 36

Jane Clay 18 Oct 1915 1850 Bossier 65

Mary Clay 1 Jan 1927 1872 Bossier 55

Odis Clay 13 Sep 1925 1916 Bossier 9

Rosie Clay 19 Nov 1942 1900 Bossier 42 Negro (Black)

Sweet D. Clay 5 Mar 1924 1919 Bossier 5

William Clay 31 Mar 1923 1853 Bossier 70

Biss Clay 12 Dec 1872 Black Not Stated, Bossier, LA

CLAY World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918 IN BOSSIER PARISH

Finn Clay 10 Aug 1889 African (Black) Louisiana;United States of America Not Stated, Bossier, LA

Henry Clay 1896 Black Louisiana;United States of America Not Stated, Bossier, LA

Louis Clay 1880 Black Not Stated, Bossier, LA

Wes Clay 20 May 1882 Black Not Stated, Bossier, LA

Slave marriages

2008-02-26T18:56:00.000-08:00

During slavery, most slaves were not able to legally marry since they were considered property and therefore less than human. They were however, in many cases encouraged by slave-owners to informally marry since it was believed that married men was less likely to be rebellious or to run away. Also, the slavemaster felt that marriage meant the procreation of children and some even offered freedom to slaves who produced at least 15 children.

This is a sad and awful truth that our ancestors had to endure. In addition, since slave marriages had no legal standing, it meant no protection from the abuses and restrictions imposed on them by slaveowners. Slave husbands and wives, without legal recourse, could be separated or sold at their master's will.

Couples who resided on different plantations were often only allowed to visit with the consent of their owners. However, in some of the slave narratives that I have read, the men preferred it that way. As John Anderson explained: "I did not want to marry a girl belonging to my own place, because I knew I could not bear to see her ill-treated." Moses Grandy agreed he wrote: "no colored man wishes to live at the house where his wife lives, for he has to endure the continual misery of seeing her flogged and abused without daring to say a word in her defence." As Henry Bibb pointed out: "If my wife must be exposed to the insults and licentious passions of wicked slave-drivers and overseers. Heaven forbid that I should be compelled to witness the sight."

Most slaves married without the benefit of clergy but instead the marriage ceremony was often performed by other family members and only with the master's permission.

It also was not like the other traditional marriages that took place during that time. Instead, most slaves "jumped the broom." This was a practice in which the couple before being pronounced as man and wife, they literally jumped over one or in some cases 2 brooms, one for each person into the land of "holy matrimony."

These were the lucky ones, some marriages consisted only of the slaves simply getting the master's permission and moving into a cabin together." Hence, comes the term, "shacking up."

After emancipation, a lot of slaves became legally married even though by that time, they often already had a house full of kids.

The federal government also established the Freedmen's Bureau to help former slaves get established in the society as free men. One of the services provided by the Bureau was to record marriages that had taken place during slavery.

Several of my own ancestors did just that even though in a lot of cases, they already had grown kids.

These are some of the ones like became legally married after slavery ended:

1. Oliver and Edy Williams Clayton "re-married" 7/24/1869 in Caddo parish after slavery ended and they already at least 3 children at this time. The oldest known was 8 years old so they had been together at least that long.

2. Levi and Mary Clay Green renewed their vows on September 24, 1872 in Bossier Parish. At that time, they had about 8 kids.

3. David and Mariah Pressley Hines (Hinds) exchanged their vows again on April 1, 1873 in DeSoto Parish. They already had at least 3 children at that time and another (My g-grandpapa Isam) on the way.

We have definitely come a long way from back then and we are truly blessed for having come so far. It must have had so much meaning for these former slave couples as was the case for many others to legalize their marriages.

However, I believe that in the eyes of God, they were already bonded and their love and commitment to each other and their families are eternal!

Click on the image below to see a testimony of their joy!

Oliver Clayton and Family

2008-02-26T18:09:00.000-08:00

According to census records, my ggg-grandfather, Oliver Clayton was born a slave around 1841 in Virginia as were both of his parents whose names I presently do not know.

He legally married my ggg-grandmother, Edy (Edie)Williams Clayton on July 24, 1869 in Caddo Parish after slavery ended. I indicated that he legally married her because like many other former slaves, they were previously unable to have legal marriages while they were held captive, rather they were only able to "jump the broom." Hence, once slavery ended, they like many other of my slave ancestors made it official even though they already had a house full of kids, the oldest being born in 1861 so they had been together at least that long.

Census records indicate that Grandma Edy was born in South Carolina and so were her parents.

Their children were Johnson, Rosa and my gg-grandpa John (Johnnie) Clayton. These were only the ones that I knew of but there could have been others.

The pair resided in Bossier Parish in and around the Plain Dealing area.

Oliver later married Harriett Clayton in 1895 as indicated on the 1900 census that they had been married 5 years. I'm not sure whether he and my ggg-greatmother had divorced or he proceeded her in death.

Oliver died on 12/30/1917 only 28 days after his wife died on 12/2/1917. His age is listed as 48 but he had to be at least 76 at that time.

1880 Census Records:

Oliver CLAYTON Self M M B 39 VA
Occ: Laborer Fa: VA Mo: VA
Edy CLAYTON Wife F M B 40 SC
Occ: Laborer Fa: SC Mo: SC
Johnson CLAYTON Son M S B 19 LA
Occ: Laborer Fa: VA Mo: SC
John CLAYTON Son M S B 12 LA
Occ: Laborer Fa: VA Mo: SC
Rosa CLAYTON Dau F S B 16 LA
Occ: Laborer Fa: VA Mo: SC
Mary HACKET Other F S B 15 LA
Occ: Boarder-Laborer Fa: LA Mo: LA
Titus ANDERSON Other M W B 56 SC
Occ: Laborer Fa: SC Mo: SC

Superstitions, Old Wives Tales and Words of Wisdom

2008-02-23T16:25:00.001-08:00

Below are some of the superstitions and Old Wives Tales I heard growing up from my mother, Lottie. Did you hear the same ones or different ones? Do tell.

1. When the sun is shining and it is raining and/or thunder and lightning at the same time: The devil is beating his wife.

2. If your hand is itching-That means that you are coming into some money

3. If your nose is itching-That means unexpected company is coming so start cleaning up.

4. Fish dreams means that someone is having a baby.

5. Don't go to the zoo when you are pregnant because the animals could "mock" your baby and it will come out looking like that animal-be it a monkey, giraffe or an elephant.

6. Animals know when you are pregnant, i.e. a bird or dog and they might try to attack you.

7. If you cut a baby's hair before his/her first birthday, they will have "bad" hair.

8. If you break a mirror, you will have 7 years of bad luck.

9. If you step on a crack, you can break your mother's back or have bad luck.

10. It bad luck to cross a black cat's path

11. Never open an umbrella up indoors because it will bring bad luck.

12. You will catch your death of cold by walking around with wet hair.

13.If you keep making funny faces, one day it will get stuck that way.

14. Rule for determining newborn's gender :Girls are carried high; boys are carried low

15. Don't talk on the phone or turn on the TV while it is thundering and lightning cause you can get struck by lightning.

My mother is a very wise woman but I don't know how valid these tales are but they have been passed down through the generations. Now, here are some passages that have been passed down throughout the generations a lot longer in fact since the beginning of time from one of the wisest men to walk the earth, King Solomon and I KNOW them to be true!

Proverbs 1:8-9

8 Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and
do not forsake your mother's teaching.
9 They will be a garland to grace your head and a
chain to adorn your neck.

Proverbs 10:4-9

4 Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth.

5 He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son,
but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.

6 Blessings crown the head of the righteous,
but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked.

7 The memory of the righteous will be a blessing,
but the name of the wicked will rot.

8 The wise in heart accept commands,
but a chattering fool comes to ruin.

9 The man of integrity walks securely,
but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.

Household Staples and Remedies

2008-02-21T19:12:00.000-08:00

Growing up, I remember that in our household there were 3 staples that my parents always kept on hand. They were vaseline, peroxide and baking soda. These 3 items proved to be invaluable items to have around the house because of they could be used in a variety of ways. Here are some of the multipurpose uses that I remember.

Vaseline:
1. An ointment for scrapes, burns, and cuts
2. An everyday skin mosturizer
3. A medicinal solution for chapped hands or lips, toenail fungus, nosebleeds, diaper rash, chest colds.
4. Makeup remover
5. Furniture stain remover
6. Hair pomade
7. Shoe shine
8. Personal lubricant

Baking Soda
1. As a powdered toothpaste or added to water, mouth wash
2. Refrigerator deordorizer
3. General deordorizer such as sink, pet box, tub
4. Cleaning agent-can be substituted for comet or ajax
5. Medicine to reduce or eliminate acid indigestion, reflux or upset stomach
6. Shoe deordorizer
7. For baking
8. Stain remover for grease and oil on clothing
9. Underarm deordorant
10. A baking soda bath to relieve general skin irritations such as measles and chicken pox or other minor skin irritations or itching
11. Carpet deordorizer

Peroxide
1. Anti-septic for cuts
2. Mouthwash for cuts in mouth-don't swallow
3. Personal hygiene
4. Gargle for a toothache
5. Foot fungus-50/50 water mix
6. Kills germs on countertops and tabletops
7. For blemishes/blackheads
8. Hair dye-bleacher/lightner
9. To clean exterior of electronic parts
10.A nasal spray when 1 tablespoon added to 1 cup of non-chlorinated water

Anyway, I still have these items around my own house at all times. For me, they are a necessity. I think it is the same for many other families and these uses have been utilized throughout the generations since their introduction.

1 Corinthians 13-The true definition of Love

2008-02-21T17:29:00.000-08:00

I know Valentines Day has already passed and I already did a story on that occassion but I am compelled to share this with you if you have not ever heard it. It is a bible scripture that I recited and won a prize for when I was about 10 years old. It is one of my favorite scriptures and is a good rule to live by and the message holds true for generations and transcends time since it teaches you about true love. It is applicable for love between a man and woman, a family or a friend.

1 Corinthians 13
1Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love*, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

2And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing.

3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not love, it profiteth me nothing.

4Love suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

5Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

6Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

7Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

8Love never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

9For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

10But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

11When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

12For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

13And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

*Love is also interchanged with the word charity in some translations

1 Chronicles 16:28

2008-02-21T10:41:00.000-08:00

1 Chronicles 16:28
Give unto the LORD, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength

Mother Wit

2008-02-20T18:12:00.000-08:00

Mother Wit. What is it? The American Heritage Dictionary defines it as n.Innate intelligence or common sense.

This is a term that my southern-born and reared mother and a lot of other mothers like her used to describe common sense ways of doing things. This is differentiated from formal institutional training that takes years to acquire. It requires that you basically use the sense your mama taught you and that God gave you to get the job done. Be it cooking, cleaning, trying to obtain a job or whatever the case may be, you just got to go for what you know and use your "Mother Wit."

People have been using it since the beginning of time. African Americans and especially those that were former slaves used their "Mother Wit" to get ahead because more often than not, that is all they had since they had no formal education or training.

I recently read an article about a former slave named John Claybrook who was born on an Alabama cotton patch who over many years slowly became one of the most affluent members of his race in the South. He owned a large tenant farm, a bank and general store in his Negro settlement of 300, a fortune estimated at $100,000 and a colored baseball team. He lived in Memphis in the height of comfort. Claybrook who never went to school credited all this worldly success, to his "mother wit."

Now, that is not to say that education does not play a valuable role in furthering our careers and knowledge in general but good old common sense or "mother wit" is also crucial.

This is a term that my own mother, Lottie often used. She offered it up as advice and a solution to dealing with and overcoming everyday problems and obstacles. It was the same advice given to her by her mother, Johnnie Pearl Lee and her grandmother, Anne Bell Johnson Green which probably came down from her mother. It has stood the test of time and been handed down through the generations.

So, when it doubt, use your "Mother Wit!"

President's Day and Black History Month Salute to Barrack Obama

2008-02-19T20:03:00.000-08:00

I have another tribute and salute to pay to Presidential Hopeful, Barrack Obama in honor of President's Day and Black History Month.

Although, he has not yet been elected President, it is the first time in history, an African American has been a major contender for the office so in light of that, I was would to honor Barrack Obama and commend him on running his campaign with dignity, respect and honor especially with the negativity being thrown his way by his opponents.

Barrack Obama has demonstrated courage under pressure and his high-road ethics makes you proud to be not only an African-American but an American period. He is a candidate for the people and ALL people.

In the last blog, I honored Abraham Lincoln and credited him as being pivotal figure in the struggle for racial equality and there have been many since him. I believe Barrack Obama is the next chapter in the War against racial divide. I believe under his leadership, we can begin just being people and one United Nation under God, indivisable.

I cannot predict the future so I do not know what the outcome will be but I do know that whatever plan God has for this Country and whoever he has ordained to lead it, it will be so.

Whatever, the outcome of the 2008 Presidential Election, I admire Barrack Obama for running an outstanding campaign!

President's Day & Black History Month Tribute to Abraham Lincoln

2008-02-19T18:11:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, was President's Day so I'm a day late and a dollar short in writing this. Also, this month is Black History Month. In honor of these 2 occasions, I would like to pay tribute to Abraham Lincoln who is on the top rung for heroes in both categories.

Abraham Lincoln was born Feb. 12, 1809, in a log cabin in Hardin (now Larue) County, Kentucky to Thomas and Nancy Hanks Lincoln. His mother was a distant cousin of the current and popular actor, Tom Hanks. Do you notice his resemblance to Abraham? His father was a carpenter. Abraham was one of 3 children as he had an older sister, Sarah, and a younger brother, Thomas, who died in infancy.

In 1816, the Lincolns relocated to the wilderness of Indiana near Little Pigeon Creek, in Perry (now Spencer) County. It is said that their move was in part because of slavery, since his parents belonged to a faction of the Baptist church that disapproved of slavery.

Lincoln's mother died in 1818 when he was 9 years old and the following year his father married a Kentucky widow, Sarah Bush Johnston who proved a good and kind mother according to Lincoln.

In 1830, the Lincolns left Indiana for Illinois and in 1831, Abraham left home for New Salem, in Sangamon County near Springfield. After trying several different occupations, Lincoln ran unsuccessfully for the Illinois legislature in 1832. Two years later he was elected to the lower house for the first of four successive terms (until 1841) as a Whig. He later became a lawyer in 1836, and in 1837 he moved to Springfield.

He met and married Mary Todd on Nov. 4, 1842.

Lincoln served one term (1847-49) as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.
In 1854, Congress passed the Kansas-Nebraska Act which opened lands previously closed to slavery to the possibility of its spread by local option (popular sovereignty) and Lincoln viewed the provisions of the act as immoral.

In 1856, he joined the newly formed Republican Party, and two years later he campaigned for the Senate against Douglas. In his speech at Springfield he expressed the view that the nation would become either all slave or all free: "A house divided against itself cannot stand."

Lincoln was elected to the presidency in 1860, defeating the Northern Democrat Douglas, the Southern Democrat John C. Breckinridge, and the Constitutional Union candidate John Bell.

By the time of Lincoln's inauguration in March 1861, seven states had seceded from the Union. As a commander in chief, although the Constitution protected slavery in peace, in war, Lincoln came to believe that the commander in chief could abolish slavery as a military necessity. The preliminary Emancipation Proclamation of Sept. 22, 1862, bore this military justification, as did all of Lincoln's racial measures, including and especially his decision in the final proclamation of Jan. 1, 1863 to accept blacks in the army.

By 1864, Lincoln endorsed the 13TH Amendment to the Constitution abolishing slavery.
He was re-elected that year. On Apr. 9, 1865, Robert E. Lee, the South's Confederate General surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant's Union forces at Appomattox Court House.

Lincoln was gunned down by John Wilkes Booth 5 days late on Apr. 14, 1865 while attending a performance of Our American Cousin at Ford's Theatre in Washington. Booth entered the presidential box and shot Lincoln. He died the following morning at 7:22am.

Abraham Lincoln was an Almighty God-sent angel. God used him and worked through him and others to free a people and a nation from the evils of slavery. He may or may not have known at the time that this was the case but God definitely had a plan for him at an early age and also worked through his parents who were God abiding people and anti-slavery activists to prepare him for his destiny.

African Americans have a lot be thankful for and first and foremost we should drop to our knees and thank God. However, we also need to be grateful for men and women like Abraham Lincoln who when God gave him a mission, he answered the call and went with what was in his gut and heart and did what he thought was right.

So in honor of both President's Day and Black History Month, I salute Abraham Lincoln because he ranks on the top in regards to both of the events.

He was "hands down" one of the best presidents in US History and his actions forever changed Black History because without his contribution and efforts Black History could very well still be one of slavery and oppression.

Below are just some of my own ancestors who were liberated by the Civil War (Holy War) and the Emancipation Proclamation signed by Lincoln:

Levi and Mary Clay Green
Henry and Effie Johnson
Jane Green,
Harry and Mary Gay
Monroe and Sophia Brittentine
Nat and Sarah Hill
Pompey and Mary Hines
David and Mariah Pressly Hines
Stephen and Phyllis Pressley
William and Phoebe Brayboy
Issac and Jane Jefferson
Betsey Taylor
Prince and Jennie Burney
William and Louisa Knox
Anthony and Betty Banks Brown Smith
Adam and Sallie Brown
Richard Clyde "Papa Dickie" Lee

On behalf of my ancestors and their descendant's past and present, We thank, God for you, Abe!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

2008-02-15T18:42:00.000-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! A DAY LATE

There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Some experts state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D., the same day that had been devoted to love lotteries. Legend also says that St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer's daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine".

Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Claudius then had Valentine jailed for defying him. In 496 A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honour St. Valentine.
Gradually, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. The date was marked by sending poems and simple gifts such as flowers. There was often a social gathering or a ball.

In the United States, Miss Esther Howland is given credit for sending the first valentine cards. Commercial valentines were introduced in the 1800's and now the date is very commercialised. The town of Loveland, Colorado, does a large post office business around February 14. The spirit of good continues as valentines are sent out with sentimental verses and children exchange valentine cards at school.

Here is an advertisment from the Brooklyn Daily Eagle from 2/14/1892