Apr 28, 2017 Orange County Review
There are so many vibrant stories yet untold, inaccurately told or denied of a valid and crucial component of the American journey. Many truths have been buried about American Indians, women, and immigrants like my own ancestors. However, I can only devote my time to one subject and I have chosen the African American story. I am proud to add my own efforts to the thousands more who collaborate and disseminate important findings.
When your work, no matter how meager, provides a tiny beacon of light and raises even one individual to a higher plain of hope and empowerment, it is worth the effort. To that end rather than dig into another mystery or the latest discovery, I thought you might enjoy reading a few comments shared with me by guests who recently visited James Madison’s Montpelier.
We are still swooning over our Montpelier visit and you touched my heart with your passion and hospitality. I found the information that we learned during our visit to Montpelier to be more powerful and compelling as compared to the African American Smithsonian in D.C.
Perhaps because Montpelier was far more personal and tangible. I’ve visited the Civil Rights Museum in Atlanta, the museum in Memphis, and the Greensboro museum where they have the actual Woolworth counter for the sit-ins...they all tell a similar story but the focus Montpelier places on the enslaved experience is like nothing I’ve ever seen before and I’ve visited several plantations between North Carolina and Florida.
I had no idea how Montpelier would affect me but I feel something stirring in me that I can’t explain. I’m telling anyone who will listen to me about this treasure.
—RJH, Charlotte, NC
(Note: RJH was so taken with the Montpelier archaeology expeditions that she is planning to attend for a week in August, hopefully with her teenage son.)
I am still talking about the event. Please thank the staff for being passionate, knowledgeable and sensitive in sharing their understanding of the enslaved at Montpelier.
—BB, Louisiana and Maryland
(speaking about the recent gathering at Montpelier of historical and genealogical researchers)
I am still reeling from my experience. I am grateful beyond words for your connecting me to Gloria Johnson Gilmore, family historian. Driving me to Gordonsville on my first day really supported my belief that my childhood really did exist. The trip to the Gordonsville gravesite with Gloria and hearing her share about members of my family was reinforcing all of my goals of real connections. Going to the courthouse finding and my great grandfather Wesley Frye’s will was made possible by your incredible being. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.
—BG, New York, NY
(an attendee at the gathering of researchers and a direct descendant of Orange County ancestor Wesley Frye born into slavery in the 19th century)
And then there was this email sent by local residents with an obvious desire to assist in the quest by sharing information. I am grateful for their effort!
We recently read “Buried Truth: Dr. Peter T. Johnson” and you mention Polly Ellis in your article. In 2015, we purchased the Frank Ellis Estate (grandfather of Clara Ellis Payne). The family cemetery is located on the property and Polly May Ellis (1855 – 1929) is buried there. Attached is a picture of the list of family members that are buried at the family cemetery. We just thought that you may find this interesting.
—D&TH, Orange County, VA
Until next week, be well.
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