Comments on: Dreams of Africa in Alabama: An Excerpt http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/ Academic insights for the thinking world. Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:04:06 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.2 hourly 1 By: James E. Woods http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-208074 James E. Woods Mon, 28 Feb 2011 20:44:47 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-208074 My name is James E. Woods. Henry C. Williams is/was my cousin. He and my father Simms E. Woods Jr. were first cousins. My grandfather owned Simms Cleaners and was one of the first grauates of Mobile County Training School 1911 Tenth Grade. As a child I used to go over to the cleaners and some older ladies use to say that I looked like Papa Elijah my great-grandfather. Henry took my brothers and sister to the Plateau Cemetery ans showed us graves Like West and Polly Woods who died in 1907 but were 78 years old. I know I have family out there. My family is also the Adams (Sam is still living). But my Dad had a lot of family. I was born when my parents were older so I'm missing a lot. Henry was working on the AfricaTown project in 2001, but he since passed. My email is woodsjej@aol.com. My name is James E. Woods. Henry C. Williams is/was my cousin. He and my father Simms E. Woods Jr. were first cousins. My grandfather owned Simms Cleaners and was one of the first grauates of Mobile County Training School 1911 Tenth Grade. As a child I used to go over to the cleaners and some older ladies use to say that I looked like Papa Elijah my great-grandfather. Henry took my brothers and sister to the Plateau Cemetery ans showed us graves Like West and Polly Woods who died in 1907 but were 78 years old. I know I have family out there. My family is also the Adams (Sam is still living). But my Dad had a lot of family. I was born when my parents were older so I’m missing a lot. Henry was working on the AfricaTown project in 2001, but he since passed. My email is woodsjej@aol.com.

]]> By: vernetta henson http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-205074 vernetta henson Mon, 14 Feb 2011 05:26:55 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-205074 Please contact me, Vernetta Henson. I am a member of Union Baptist church and attend Sunday School and Church every Sunday. Rebecca Allen Ellis Was married to my Grandmother's brother. ( The late Edwin Ellis) and their grandfather was Pollee Allen. My Grandfather had a Neice (Vivian Bently) who married Coley Dawson. I am very anxious to get in contact with you. be blessed Please contact me, Vernetta Henson. I am a member of Union Baptist church and attend Sunday School and Church every Sunday. Rebecca Allen Ellis Was married to my Grandmother’s brother. ( The late Edwin Ellis) and their grandfather was Pollee Allen. My Grandfather had a Neice (Vivian Bently) who married Coley Dawson. I am very anxious to get in contact with you. be blessed

]]> By: michael a shearer http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-182949 michael a shearer Mon, 18 Oct 2010 01:41:09 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-182949 I was born in africa town. my grand mother rebecca johnson -shearer was strong member in the community. she played the piano in church. my other side of the family lived on cherry st .florazell andrews-robinson was my grand mother I am proud to know people are gone but not forgotten. I live in detroit michigan at this time. Soon to retire and move home. If you are a family feel free to contact me. 1313 595 0234 god bless you. I was born in africa town. my grand mother rebecca johnson -shearer was strong member in the community. she played the piano in church. my other side of the family lived on cherry st .florazell andrews-robinson was my grand mother I am proud to know people are gone but not forgotten. I live in detroit michigan at this time. Soon to retire and move home. If you are a family feel free to contact me. 1313 595 0234 god bless you.

]]> By: Omar Smith http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-168841 Omar Smith Thu, 12 Aug 2010 03:41:41 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-168841 I was Born In Africa Town. My Granmother Helen Tinker Smith lived on the mobile river where the paper mill is she was born in 1879, when she died in 1975 according to their records she was 103 three years old. she raised cows on the other side of the river. her remains my uncle and aunt are in the plateau cemetary. She was a close friend of cudjo Lewis and the late Henry C Williams. She was a member Green Grove bapthist church in Happy Hill which was across the tracks from Lewis (cudjo relatives) quarter. Iam a 1969 graduate of Mobile Co Trng School. Go Whippets. we need the History of Mobile Co Trng School God Bless You. I was Born In Africa Town. My Granmother Helen Tinker Smith lived on the mobile river where the paper mill is she was born in 1879, when she died in 1975 according to their records she was 103 three years old. she raised cows on the other side of the river. her remains my uncle and aunt are in the plateau cemetary. She was a close friend of cudjo Lewis and the late Henry C Williams. She was a member Green Grove bapthist church in Happy Hill which was across the tracks from Lewis (cudjo relatives) quarter. Iam a 1969 graduate of Mobile Co Trng School. Go Whippets. we need the History of Mobile Co Trng School God Bless You.

]]> By: Pamela Sanders-Dawson http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-157009 Pamela Sanders-Dawson Sat, 13 Mar 2010 19:25:28 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-157009 I am looking for information about Rebecca Allen-Ellis. She lived with her children in Plateau and have several children that still live there. I think that the Ellis family attended Union church as well. Rebecca Ellis is my husband aunt. Looking forward to hearing from someone soon. I am looking for information about Rebecca Allen-Ellis. She lived with her children in Plateau and have several children that still live there. I think that the Ellis family attended Union church as well. Rebecca Ellis is my husband aunt.
Looking forward to hearing from someone soon.

]]> By: Sandra http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-156716 Sandra Sun, 14 Feb 2010 09:09:10 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-156716 Anyone with info regarding Sunbeam Gaines, born circa 1910 in plateau, Mother was named Roxy? Anyone with info regarding Sunbeam Gaines, born
circa 1910 in plateau, Mother was named Roxy?

]]> By: Carletta Singleton http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-148139 Carletta Singleton Wed, 19 Nov 2008 21:35:09 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-148139 My family have been holding a family reunions since 1993 every two years. On even numbered years we come home to Mobile or Biloxi,MS. I am thinking the next time we are in Mobile, 2010, could be a grand time for a big reunion. What we have learned in tracing our Family History is that a majority of people living in Plateau were all related. So here is a grand idea, why not have a AfricaTown Family Reunion? Let me know if you and your family would be interested in participating. We would like to know general interest prior to making any plans. thanks My family have been holding a family reunions since 1993 every two years. On even numbered years we come home to Mobile or Biloxi,MS. I am thinking the next time we are in Mobile, 2010, could be a grand time for a big reunion. What we have learned in tracing our Family History is that a majority of people living in Plateau were all related.
So here is a grand idea, why not have a AfricaTown Family Reunion? Let me know if you and your family would be interested in participating. We would like to know general interest prior to making any plans.
thanks

]]> By: Vershawn Sanders http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-147990 Vershawn Sanders Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:58:41 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-147990 Hello, I am doing research on the Singleton Family which owned a lot of land in Plateau and orginally purchased the property the Plateau cemetary is on from Cudjoe Lewis. Looking to get information to research futher back than William Singleton born 1775. My e-mail is vershawn@redclaydance.com if you have any info I would love to get it. Hello,
I am doing research on the Singleton Family which owned a lot of land in Plateau and orginally purchased the property the Plateau cemetary is on from Cudjoe Lewis. Looking to get information to research futher back than William Singleton born 1775.

My e-mail is vershawn@redclaydance.com if you have any info I would love to get it.

]]> By: Pat http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-147445 Pat Tue, 23 Sep 2008 13:57:14 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-147445 Works Project Administration. Slave Narratives [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: The Generations Network, Inc., 2000. Original data: Works Project Administration. Federal Writers Project. Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves. Washington, D.C.: n.p., n.d. State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe Lewis, Cudjoe State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe (Alabama Archives, Montgomery. Louise Porter (Colored) Identification No. 0149-4249. Federal Writers Project, Dist. 6. WPA Project 694, New No. 2661. August 15, 1936) State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe On April 20, 1861, the last cargo of negro slaves imported to the United States was brought to Mobile. This date was given by the obituary of Captain Tim Meaher, who died in 1892. State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe The War between the States at this time was already on, and this black cargo created quite a sensation in Mobile, and the South, hundreds going down to the foot of St Anthony St to see the slaves gibbering in their tribal language. State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe The planters of the South generally did not desire savages from Africa, but desired those either born in the United States or the West Indian Islands, because they did not have to break them in for laboring purposes. The schooner Clotilde sailed from Lonanda in Africa with several hundred negroes, prisoners captured by the warriors of the tribe in a war with another tribe, and sold to American speculators. The Clotilde safely reached the Mississippi sound and was taken in charge by Captain Tim Meaher and run up Mobile Bay and river by night. State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe The negroes were then hidden in the delta marshes of upper Baldwin County at the head of Mobile Bay, and the Clotilde was taken to Bayou Conner and burned to the hull edge. The authorities took proceedings against Captain Tim Meaher, and although the case was tried with able lawyers on either side, the Captain of the Clotilde was kept out of the way and Captain Meaher proved that he had been in and about Mobile all the time. The result was that he was acquitted. After everything had blown over the slaves were divided by Captain Meaher among different person in interest. Many of the negroes were sent up the river to plantations, others were also employed in building redans and redoubts up the river, while the remainder remained in the neighborhood of Mobile river above Mobile on Meaher's land and that part of the suburb of Plateau known as "Affrishy Town", were up to the death of these slaves (Cudjoe Lewis, the subject of this article being the last), the pure African Lonanda tribal was spoken. State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe These last slaves were known as the "Tarkars", an African tribe, captured and brought here on the ship "Clotilde". In this number was Raseola Lewis, but later known to every one as "Uncle Cudjoe Lewis". State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe Uncle Cudjoe lived in an old cabin, next door to the Union Baptist Church in the Plateau Community for nearly a century or until he died Friday, October 2nd, 1935, being the last of the number who came on the "Clotilde". He was a member of this church and served as janitor for seventy years, very active, and able to perform his duties until a few months before he died at the ripe old age of 105 years. State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe Uncle Cudjoe was intelligent and possessed with a keen memory. He could relate stories about his early life in Africa and the United States, and was often interviewed by representatives of the leading newspapers and magazines of the country. He loved his church and could quote intelligently many scriptures in the Bible. State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe Uncle Cudjoe's life was a great influence on the people of his community. He was respected by members of both races. Hundreds of whites as well as Negroes attended his funeral, paying homage to his bier. Members of both races spoke on the life and struggles of this historical character. State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe The population of Plateau is 2,537 (all negroes) being descendants of Uncle Cudjoe and others who came with the last load of slaves. State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe [Reference: Obituary of Captain Timothy Meaher, in Mobile Register, March 4, 1892; Mobile Under Five Flags, by Peter J. Hamilton; Dropped Stitches from Mobile's Past, by Erwin Craigbad, in The Mobile Register, Sunday, April 21, 1929; The Mobile Sun, Negro paper.] Works Project Administration. Slave Narratives [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: The Generations Network, Inc., 2000. Original data: Works Project Administration. Federal Writers Project. Slave Narratives: A Folk History of Slavery in the United States from Interviews with Former Slaves. Washington, D.C.: n.p., n.d.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
Lewis, Cudjoe

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
(Alabama Archives, Montgomery. Louise Porter (Colored) Identification No. 0149-4249. Federal Writers Project, Dist. 6. WPA Project 694, New No. 2661. August 15, 1936)

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
On April 20, 1861, the last cargo of negro slaves imported to the United States was brought to Mobile. This date was given by the obituary of Captain Tim Meaher, who died in 1892.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
The War between the States at this time was already on, and this black cargo created quite a sensation in Mobile, and the South, hundreds going down to the foot of St Anthony St to see the slaves gibbering in their tribal language.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
The planters of the South generally did not desire savages from Africa, but desired those either born in the United States or the West Indian Islands, because they did not have to break them in for laboring purposes. The schooner Clotilde sailed from Lonanda in Africa with several hundred negroes, prisoners captured by the warriors of the tribe in a war with another tribe, and sold to American speculators. The Clotilde safely reached the Mississippi sound and was taken in charge by Captain Tim Meaher and run up Mobile Bay and river by night.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
The negroes were then hidden in the delta marshes of upper Baldwin County at the head of Mobile Bay, and the Clotilde was taken to Bayou Conner and burned to the hull edge. The authorities took proceedings against Captain Tim Meaher, and although the case was tried with able lawyers on either side, the Captain of the Clotilde was kept out of the way and Captain Meaher proved that he had been in and about Mobile all the time. The result was that he was acquitted. After everything had blown over the slaves were divided by Captain Meaher among different person in interest. Many of the negroes were sent up the river to plantations, others were also employed in building redans and redoubts up the river, while the remainder remained in the neighborhood of Mobile river above Mobile on Meaher’s land and that part of the suburb of Plateau known as “Affrishy Town”, were up to the death of these slaves (Cudjoe Lewis, the subject of this article being the last), the pure African Lonanda tribal was spoken.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
These last slaves were known as the “Tarkars”, an African tribe, captured and brought here on the ship “Clotilde”. In this number was Raseola Lewis, but later known to every one as “Uncle Cudjoe Lewis”.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
Uncle Cudjoe lived in an old cabin, next door to the Union Baptist Church in the Plateau Community for nearly a century or until he died Friday, October 2nd, 1935, being the last of the number who came on the “Clotilde”. He was a member of this church and served as janitor for seventy years, very active, and able to perform his duties until a few months before he died at the ripe old age of 105 years.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
Uncle Cudjoe was intelligent and possessed with a keen memory. He could relate stories about his early life in Africa and the United States, and was often interviewed by representatives of the leading newspapers and magazines of the country. He loved his church and could quote intelligently many scriptures in the Bible.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
Uncle Cudjoe’s life was a great influence on the people of his community. He was respected by members of both races. Hundreds of whites as well as Negroes attended his funeral, paying homage to his bier. Members of both races spoke on the life and struggles of this historical character.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
The population of Plateau is 2,537 (all negroes) being descendants of Uncle Cudjoe and others who came with the last load of slaves.

State: Alabama Interviewee: Lewis, Cudjoe
[Reference: Obituary of Captain Timothy Meaher, in Mobile Register, March 4, 1892; Mobile Under Five Flags, by Peter J. Hamilton; Dropped Stitches from Mobile's Past, by Erwin Craigbad, in The Mobile Register, Sunday, April 21, 1929; The Mobile Sun, Negro paper.]

]]> By: Tametra Allen http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-147241 Tametra Allen Fri, 22 Aug 2008 06:30:52 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-147241 Vernetta, I am so glad that you finally wrote something back here. I am so very interested in talking to you along with my father...we are also descendants of Polee (& Lucy) Allen. I will contact you soon...I want to know the rest of my family as well. I am currently reading 'Dreams of Africa' and am almost finished and I will be reading 'The Slave Ship Clotilda' next. I am anxious to talk with you. Talk to you soon, T Vernetta, I am so glad that you finally wrote something back here. I am so very interested in talking to you along with my father…we are also descendants of Polee (& Lucy) Allen. I will contact you soon…I want to know the rest of my family as well. I am currently reading ‘Dreams of Africa’ and am almost finished and I will be reading ‘The Slave Ship Clotilda’ next. I am anxious to talk with you.

Talk to you soon,

T

]]> By: Thomas Summerlin http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-147218 Thomas Summerlin Tue, 19 Aug 2008 23:00:42 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-147218 Shirley Phelps-Pollard, My name is Thomas Summerlin, and I am a fifth generational member of the Summerlin-Richardson Family still residing in Plateau, Al. It was spoken to me by my grandmother (Geneva Richardson-Summerlin) that Miss Note was a dear friend of hers, and by my father (Thomas "T.J." Summerlin) that Ellis Edwards was one of his lifelong friends. I was too young to personaliy remember Miss Note,and only vaguely remember Mr. Ellis Edwards. Unfortunately, Both my parents past away resently, but if there is anything else I can help you with about Plateau, its history, and/or any other information, please let me know. Plateau is at an exciting point in its history, which is defining its future. Many of our residents are meeting and getting together to ensure that the community and its history will continue. hopefully those of you how have moved away will one day return to continue the legacy set before us. I moved away when I was young because I wanted to see the world, but a sense of purpose kept calling me back everytime I visited Plateau. I always thought, If not me, then who! So now I am committed to living here in Plateau, and trying to make it a better place. Shirley Phelps-Pollard,

My name is Thomas Summerlin, and I am a fifth generational member of the Summerlin-Richardson Family still residing in Plateau, Al. It was spoken to me by my grandmother (Geneva Richardson-Summerlin) that Miss Note was a dear friend of hers, and by my father (Thomas “T.J.” Summerlin) that Ellis Edwards was one of his lifelong friends. I was too young to personaliy remember Miss Note,and only vaguely remember Mr. Ellis Edwards. Unfortunately, Both my parents past away resently, but if there is anything else I can help you with about Plateau, its history, and/or any other information, please let me know.

Plateau is at an exciting point in its history, which is defining its future. Many of our residents are meeting and getting together to ensure that the community and its history will continue. hopefully those of you how have moved away will one day return to continue the legacy set before us. I moved away when I was young because I wanted to see the world, but a sense of purpose kept calling me back everytime I visited Plateau. I always thought, If not me, then who! So now I am committed to living here in Plateau, and trying to make it a better place.

]]> By: vernetta peters henson http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-147214 vernetta peters henson Tue, 19 Aug 2008 16:01:06 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-147214 My name is Vernetta Peters Henson, a descendant of Polee Allen. I still attend Union Missionary Baptist Church and would like to talk to each one who writes in on this website. I was at the book signing with Dr. Robertson and am in touch with her on occasion. My home phone is 251-478-4478. I remain open to re-uniting with all of the descendants and fellowshiping with them. My name is Vernetta Peters Henson, a descendant of Polee Allen. I still attend Union Missionary Baptist Church and would like to talk to each one who writes in on this website. I was at the book signing with Dr. Robertson and am in touch with her on occasion.
My home phone is 251-478-4478. I remain open to re-uniting with all of the descendants and fellowshiping with them.

]]> By: Shirley Phelps-Pollard http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-147177 Shirley Phelps-Pollard Tue, 12 Aug 2008 12:20:01 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-147177 My fathers family the Edwards on Richardson st has been in Plateau,Al for over 85 years.I have tried to visit and learn more about Africatown and never get close to learning if there is a tie to our family there. I have gone the the Africatown welcome center many times and its never open,I don't know where else to go.I just leave there and go over to the Plateau cemetary to honor my Grandmother,who we called Mama Note and my father who is named Ellis Edwards.I feel such a strong connection with Plateau and love coming there 2/3 times ayear.My mother was born and raised in Prichard and Whistler,Al.she attended MCTS,some of her family still reside in those areas.I am trying to learn as much as possible about the historical significance of Plateau with Africatown.I am going to try and get the book to read more on the history of Africatown.I was just in Mobile/Plateau from a reunion that was held in Birmingham,Al.there was a book signing of Dr.Natalie Robertson,about the ship"Clotilda" at the Museum of Mobile on Royal st August 7th 2008,we were leaving that morning and didn't get a chance to attend this book signing.I am going to get her book and read it also. My fathers family the Edwards on Richardson st has been in Plateau,Al for over 85 years.I have tried to visit and learn more about Africatown and never get close to learning if there is a tie to our family there. I have gone the the Africatown welcome center many times and its never open,I don’t know where else to go.I just leave there and go over to the Plateau cemetary to honor my Grandmother,who we called Mama Note and my father who is named Ellis Edwards.I feel such a strong connection with Plateau and love coming there 2/3 times ayear.My mother was born and raised in Prichard and Whistler,Al.she attended MCTS,some of her family still reside in those areas.I am trying to learn as much as possible about the historical significance of Plateau with Africatown.I am going to try and get the book to read more on the history of Africatown.I was just in Mobile/Plateau from a reunion that was held in Birmingham,Al.there was a book signing of Dr.Natalie Robertson,about the ship”Clotilda” at the Museum of Mobile on Royal
st August 7th 2008,we were leaving that morning and didn’t get a chance to attend this book signing.I am going to get her book and read it also.

]]> By: LeAnne Roberts http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-146987 LeAnne Roberts Sat, 19 Jul 2008 05:47:46 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-146987 Cleon, I am not sure if you will get this message, but I believe we may be related. Since our family reunions have stopped, I am not aware of my many relatives from Mobile. I am of the Bracy & Lee family, being the great-great-granddaughter of Peter Lee and the great-granddaughter of Sidney Lee (to my knowledge). Some of my cousins are Marshalls and the Jones family sounds very familiar. I am very interested in receiving further information about Africatown. I will keep checking this board in case you reply. Thank you! Cleon,

I am not sure if you will get this message, but I believe we may be related. Since our family reunions have stopped, I am not aware of my many relatives from Mobile. I am of the Bracy & Lee family, being the great-great-granddaughter of Peter Lee and the great-granddaughter of Sidney Lee (to my knowledge). Some of my cousins are Marshalls and the Jones family sounds very familiar. I am very interested in receiving further information about Africatown. I will keep checking this board in case you reply. Thank you!

]]> By: cleon jones jr http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-146462 cleon jones jr Fri, 20 Jun 2008 15:11:36 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-146462 Hello, I am Cleon Jones,Jr. of the Jones, Marshall,Jacobs and Lee family. My father is Cleon Jones, Sr. who played for the New York Mets. We are decendants of Peter Lee,Gumpa. My father met Sylvianne A. Diouf,author of Dreams of Africa in Ala., and spent time with her when she visited Plateau. I live in ATL,GA, but spend time in Mobile to help bring nat'l attension to AfricanTown & volunteer with the AfricaTown youth. Hello, I am Cleon Jones,Jr. of the Jones, Marshall,Jacobs and Lee family. My father is Cleon Jones, Sr. who played for the New York Mets. We are decendants of Peter Lee,Gumpa. My father met Sylvianne A. Diouf,author of Dreams of Africa in Ala., and spent time with her when she visited Plateau. I live in ATL,GA, but spend time in Mobile to help bring nat’l attension to AfricanTown & volunteer with the AfricaTown youth.

]]> By: Kimberly Harris http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-146254 Kimberly Harris Wed, 11 Jun 2008 01:42:28 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-146254 Reggie Lee may I please view your Pictures? Thanks!! Reggie Lee may I please view your Pictures?

Thanks!!

]]> By: Kimberly Harris http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-146253 Kimberly Harris Wed, 11 Jun 2008 01:31:00 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-146253 "Wow" I plan to read the book soon, I was also born a raised in Mobile,Alabama and raised in Plateau. I lived on Front street near Mr. Hubbard store. As a child I attended Whitley Elementary School and County Middle School. I plan to visit Mobile soon. Great information. “Wow” I plan to read the book soon, I was also born a raised in Mobile,Alabama and raised in Plateau. I lived on Front street near Mr. Hubbard store. As a child I attended Whitley Elementary School and County Middle School. I plan to visit Mobile soon. Great information.

]]> By: catherine benjamin bacon http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-146060 catherine benjamin bacon Sat, 31 May 2008 09:27:11 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-146060 i have just finish reading this information on mr, cudjo lewis i lived in plateau as a child ,i heard of him but not as much as iam reading now, but i will get the book, as soon as i can ,thanks for the information. catherine b. bocon, ft, lauderdale fl. i have just finish reading this information on mr, cudjo lewis i lived in plateau as a child ,i heard of him but not as much as iam reading now, but i will get the book, as soon as i can ,thanks for the information. catherine b. bocon, ft, lauderdale fl.

]]> By: Tametra Allen http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-145789 Tametra Allen Wed, 14 May 2008 06:52:11 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-145789 We've found the book! My dad got it from the library and OMG, I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw the picture of Polee Allen, my father, who is his grandson, resembles him very much. My father was also amazed. I have now ordered my own copy and waiting for it to be delivered next week. I can't wait to began reading and reliving our history. Hope to hear from family members soon. Tametra Allen We’ve found the book! My dad got it from the library and OMG, I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the picture of Polee Allen, my father, who is his grandson, resembles him very much. My father was also amazed. I have now ordered my own copy and waiting for it to be delivered next week. I can’t wait to began reading and reliving our history.

Hope to hear from family members soon.

Tametra Allen

]]> By: Tametra Allen http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-145645 Tametra Allen Thu, 08 May 2008 13:46:49 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-145645 Hello all, I am a great-grandaughter of Polee Allen. My grandfather was Henderson Allen and my father is Alister Allen. I too was told that Cudjoe Lewis and Polee Allen were brothers. I am interested in learning more about our family...I have learned a lot from both my dad and from research on the internet. We plan to read the book published as soon as we can find a copy. My father remembers a lot but his father, Henderson, passed away when he was only 14 years old. He has fond memories of growing up in Alabama, he was raised in Union Missionary Baptist Church, memories of his uncle Clarence and Aunt Eva, some of his grandfather, Polee Allen's children. I and my father are interested in finding out much more, we live in California. Hoping to reade more comments from family members. Sincerely, Tametra Hello all, I am a great-grandaughter of Polee Allen. My grandfather was Henderson Allen and my father is Alister Allen. I too was told that Cudjoe Lewis and Polee Allen were brothers.

I am interested in learning more about our family…I have learned a lot from both my dad and from research on the internet. We plan to read the book published as soon as we can find a copy.

My father remembers a lot but his father, Henderson, passed away when he was only 14 years old. He has fond memories of growing up in Alabama, he was raised in Union Missionary Baptist Church, memories of his uncle Clarence and Aunt Eva, some of his grandfather, Polee Allen’s children.

I and my father are interested in finding out much more, we live in California.

Hoping to reade more comments from family members.

Sincerely, Tametra

]]> By: Vernetta Peters Henson http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-136893 Vernetta Peters Henson Fri, 15 Feb 2008 06:15:25 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-136893 I live in the Mobile area and I was married at the Union Missionary Baptist church where I am still a member. The whole worship experience is phenomenal as well as unique. I live in the Mobile area and I was married at the Union Missionary Baptist church where I am still a member. The whole worship experience is phenomenal as well as unique.

]]> By: Vernetta Peters Henson http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-136892 Vernetta Peters Henson Fri, 15 Feb 2008 06:10:37 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-136892 I am 59 years old and a direct descendant of Cudjo Lewis. My Second Great Grandfather, Polee Allen, was reported to be a brother of Cudjo Lewis. I have heard many stories from my Grandmother, Mrs. Ora A. Floyd, about the values and sense of unity and perserverance taught to her by her parents and grandparents and about the values of the old country. Their strong faith in God helped them to become citizen of worth and enabled them to produce children of the same caliber and character. I am pleased to have been reard by my grandparents (Mr. & Mrs. Nathan D. Floyd). They taught me lessons that I hold dear to my heart and I will pass everything that they taught me on to my children and grandchildren and will encourage them to do the same. I also was surrounded by many extended family members. (aunts, uncles, great aunts and great uncles.) I am 59 years old and a direct descendant of Cudjo Lewis. My Second Great Grandfather, Polee Allen, was reported to be a brother of Cudjo Lewis. I have heard many stories from my Grandmother, Mrs. Ora A. Floyd, about the values and sense of unity and perserverance taught to her by her parents and grandparents and about the values of the old country. Their strong faith in God helped them to become citizen of worth and enabled them to produce children of the same caliber and character. I am pleased to have been reard by my grandparents (Mr. & Mrs. Nathan D. Floyd). They taught me lessons that I hold dear to my heart and I will pass everything that they taught me on to my children and grandchildren and will encourage them to do the same. I also was surrounded by many extended family members. (aunts, uncles, great aunts and great uncles.)

]]> By: Suzy M. Harris http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-121549 Suzy M. Harris Sat, 19 Jan 2008 18:35:12 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-121549 I am 37-years-old and I live with my 16 year old daughter in Greensboro, NC. I was raised in Cleveland, Ohio but was born in Plateau. It is stated on my Birth Certificate. A lot of my family is in Happy Hill. I would definately like to know more about the life of my Grandma Priscilla "Soot" Harris/Reed of Mobile, AL. born @ 1899 or 1900 deceased in May 1995 in Mobile, AL. I am 37-years-old and I live with my 16 year old daughter in Greensboro, NC. I was raised in Cleveland, Ohio but was born in Plateau. It is stated on my Birth Certificate. A lot of my family is in Happy Hill.

I would definately like to know more about the life of my Grandma Priscilla “Soot” Harris/Reed of Mobile, AL. born @ 1899 or 1900 deceased in May 1995 in Mobile, AL.

]]> By: Torrais Singleton Glenn http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-101861 Torrais Singleton Glenn Thu, 13 Dec 2007 03:33:31 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-101861 I grew up in Mobile and can remember my familt always telling us about Mr. Cudjo Lewis. How great a Story to remember and honor him by. I grew up in Mobile and can remember my familt always telling us about Mr. Cudjo Lewis. How great a Story to remember and honor him by.

]]> By: Dazerine Ingram http://blog.oup.com/2007/03/dreams_of_afric/comment-page-1/#comment-71692 Dazerine Ingram Fri, 16 Nov 2007 06:23:26 +0000 http://216.110.190.15/2007/03/dreams_of_africa_in_alabama_an_excerpt/#comment-71692 Really Interestng.Beautiful that they came together as A group, to make the best Of life in Alabama.I must get the book,I read the Excert. I am A native Of Birmingham,Alabama When I visit there again I much check it out. Really Interestng.Beautiful that they came together as A group, to make the best Of life in Alabama.I must get the book,I read the Excert. I am A native Of Birmingham,Alabama When I visit there again I much check it out.

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