Wednesday, August 11, 2010

In Honor of My Friend and Aunt - Elaine Logwood

Elaine Logwood (14 Nov 1937-10 Aug 2010)

In honor of a dear friend and "aunt"who I shared the passion for tracing our family roots and learning about the African American Experience. Your words of encouragement throughout the past twenty plus years were a blessing and inspiration to me as  I grew from a boy to man. I want to say thank for lending me your ear as I shared my joy and frustration with life as well as my genealogical research which seem to be practically everyday. Although you used to tell me how proud you were of me, I was also proud of you and your quiet strength, courage, and wisdom.

As I sit here and type these words tears are rolling down my cheeks because you are no longer here but I take comfort in knowing that you are no longer in pain. I also know that my life and others has been enriched by your presence.

Rest In Peace Ms. Elaine M. Logwood


Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Tombstone Tuesday - William L. Simpson

W.  L. Simpson  
26 July 1868-6 Nov 1916
Moore Cemetery
Leon County, Texas

W. L. Simpson was the son of Essex and Amanda (Henry) Simpson. He was also the father of my great grandmother Iola Simpson (1897-1977). Based on the initials (K of P) it appears that he was a member of the Knights of Pythias. The Knights of Pythias is a social brotherhood founded in Washington, D.C., February 19, 1864, by Justus Henry Rathbone and four others. The Order began during the Civil War, and its founder believed that it might do much to heal the wounds and allay the hatred of civil conflict. It was the first fraternal order to be chartered by an Act of Congress.