THE HERITAGE OF FATHER AND GRANDFATHER MARION TAYLOR HARRIS BARNES AND MOTHER AND GRANDMOTHER NOBIE (ALEXANDER GAINES) BARNES

FranklinCounty, when created in 1784, encompassed a great area that was eventually broken into the counties you see here. You may find it helpful to visit these counties to check for your ancestors. 

FranklinCounty was created from lands obtained from the Cherokee Indian Nation, and named for Benjamin Franklin. It covered a large part of upper Georgia, from the present day borders of Rabun and Towns counties to Clark and from the Savannah river to the Oconee in Hall and Jackson counties. The county seat of Carnesville was laid out in 1805 and named for Thomas Peter Carnes.

It was and will be quite easy to document the relatives of our father Marion Taylor’s side, our Harris/Barnes/Strange/Craft relatives.  I was informed by one of Daddy’s [Marion Taylor] sole surviving relatives of his generation that every Harris, Craft, Strange and Barnes in Hartwell, Georgia [HartCounty] are related.Those in Elbert and Franklin will also be included for, back then, they were one territory.

Part of what is now HartCounty was once part of FranklinCounty. HartCounty is where most of our Alexander and Gaines relatives from our mother Nobie’s side lived and continue to live, too.Our father and mother, Marion and Nobie, lived near one another as children and grew up together. Our mother and Grandmother, Nobie, springs from the Alexander clan. Hartwell - where most are from - is a small town in HartCounty.  Hart was also part of Elbert at one time.  I have, in fact, traced Hark Alexander, great-great grandfather of Vernelle, Dorothy, Fannie, Barbara, Juanita and Earl Barnes, to ElbertCounty in the 1880 US Census.  His daughter, Sarah Alexander Oliver, also lived near him in ElbertCounty at the time the 1880 Census was taken.  All those names will first be mentioned, after which Nobie Barnes' family line, beginning with her grandfather and continuing to the present, will be detailed.  She and we have quite a heritage.  Although we are principally tracing Nobie's family line, other Alexanders will be able to profit from the Georgia research done and find their heritage and trace their families, too, to the present date.

ALEXANDER daughters who have married and moved from the family homesteads have married surnames.  They cannot, therefore, be identified unless the surname is known. Genealogy researchers know that females are lost to ancestral family lines.  It is, therefore, known that families are actually larger in count because of unidentified females.  Also, siblingscanot always be linked because US census did not keep records of slaves prior to 1850 and many children had been separated from the families. Others had grown up, married and had households of their own.

I must make known that Black families were not included in the United States Census' taken prior to 1850 because it did not keep a record of slaves. It only counted slaves' heads and did not mention their names nor family members' names. They are only listed as belonging to particular masters of the plantations under the slave owner's name.  We can, however, tell who were living as slaves during that bleak period by the ages they gave in the 1850, 1860, 1870 and 1880 censuses.  We then know we can trace Alexanders back to the late 1700s and we have, although many also died during that period!

Most Blacks in Georgia were slaves prior to the Emancipation Proclamation, although there were some few freemen/women in existence. Georgia was one of the first states to free its slaves.  It was in favor of freeing slaves before the United States was prepared to do so. In that the U.S. did not count slaves as people, it is difficult, therefore, to easily discover one's lineage back to the beginning of the country.  Therefore, this record may change from time to time as more records are released and more names can be discovered.  It will also be updated as more connections are made with living relatives. It will be changed, also, as later census records disclose variations in the spelling of names.  The census taker may be at fault for the spelling errors or the person themselves changed the spelling.  I have already had to change spelling of names for the same person (Creasy, Creacy, Creecy) three times as I use different census records. They might change the spelling as they learned to spell! Further, in one census, they might use their first name, use the middle name in the next census and perhaps use their full name in an even later census.  It almost takes "detective work" to connect one with the other.  It is generally the children's names or the wife's name that helps to solve the puzzle.  Then, too, we must depend upon the handwriting, spelling and the hearing of the census-taker.

What a wonder.  Honor those who have gone before us through perilous times as slaves by reading through their names.

Closely-related Barnes, Craft and Alexanders live in other states, also, to include Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,Michigan and Ohio. Recognize that many names are missing.  They did not survive until the census times.  Born too soon, died too early. We stand on their shoulders. We enjoy the freedoms they never even dreamed of.  I believe that, for the most part, they would be proud of us. 

OUR HARRIS-BARNES-CRAFT-STRANGE ANCESTORS

Daddy (Marion)'s son, Marion Earl, sent his DNA to the African Ancestry genetic testing laboratories to attempt to discover where our Dad's (Marion Harris Barnes) ancient history began.  What Earl discovered was printed on the certificate of ancestry below: 

Marion Harris Barnes' heritage - and ours, on the male side - begins in Ethiopia (which in the Bible in Genesis, Chapter Two, is called CUSH).  Moses, the great biblical prophet, was married to a Cushite (Ethiopian) woman. 

Daddy's blood and genes are also in his daughters but his Y-chromosome and male DNA is passed on through his son, Marion Earl.  Marion Earl, in turn, passes on the Y-chromosome and male DNA to his sons, Kevin and Aaron.  They, in turn, will pass the male DNA on to their sons throughout all coming generations.  The fathers pass on the male DNA to their sons and the mothers pass on the female mtDNA to their daughters.  The daughters receive the male DNA but do not pass it on.  The sons receive the mtDNA, female DNA, but do not pass it on.  It is believed, scientifically at present, that each passes on only to the same sex:  the mother line to daughters, the father line to sons - through the ages. 

Daddy (Marion) married Nobie (Alexander) Gaines in Hartwell, Georgia and lived there until he came to Pgh from Georgia in 1937 to work on the W.P.I. Vernelle, Dorothy, Fannie, and Barbara were born by then and went by Harris since Daddy (Marion) was raised by Elisha and Aunt Mae Harris, his grandfather and grandmother on his mother’s side. It is believed that early in his life, his grandmother on his father’s side, Fannie Barnes, helped to raise him.At some point, he went to live with his Harris family. 

Daddy (Marion) had to go in his birth name (Barnes) when Social Security began in 1936.  His wife and our mother, Nobie, Dorothy, Fannie and Barbara came to Pgh to join him in 1938. Vernelle was already in Pittsburgh, living with our Grandmother Fannie and her third spouse, Elijah Benton.Us Georgia Harris/Barnes children lived with Big Dad (Elijah Benton) and Big Mama (Fannie) when we arrived in Pittsburgh from Georgia.  Juanita and Earl were both born in Pittburgh, PA

In 2005, The National Geographic Society, IBM, geneticist Spencer Wells, and the Waitt Family Foundation launched the Genographic Project, a five-year effort to understand the human journey—where humans came from and how we got to where we live today. This unprecedented effort will map humanity's genetic journey through the ages. 

The fossil record fixes human origins in Africa, but little is known about the great journey that took Homo sapiens to the far reaches of the Earth. How did we, each of us, end up where we are? Why do we appear in such a wide array of different colors and features? 

Our Dad and grandfather, Marion's son, Marion Earl Barnes, sent his DNA to the National Geographic Project in order to determine the genetic story of the male side of our family.  He and we received quite a shock when his DNA report arrived.  Only a true story can set the proper setting for his DNA results.  Here is story told in magazines and on TV: 

"A newspaper report from Jerusalem dated January 3, 1997 indicates that scientists have found a unique genetic chromosome linking Jews of the priestly tribe (Kohanim) worldwide. The researchers found these Jewish Kohanim, whether from the Ashkenazi (European) or the Sephardi (Spanish and Middle Eastern) branches share a variation of the Y chromosome. This is a very strong evidence that these individuals are descendants of one man, Aaron the High Priest and the brother of Moses, who lived 3,500 years ago. Prof. Karl Skorecki, a senior nephrologist (blood specialist) at RambamHospital in Haifa is the head of molecular medicine at Israel's Technion's medical school. He and his colleagues published their findings in Nature, a British science journal. 

The professor is himself a kohen. He noticed another kohen, who was a Black from Morocco, in a synagogue and wondered if they could be genetically linked since the Bible claimed they were all descended from Aaron. "I wanted to know if it were possible to find a genetic connection." It is estimated that approximately 5 percent (350,000 men) of the 7 million male Jews worldwide are descended from the priestly tribe. The priests led Israel in its worship in the Temple and Tabernacle from the time of Aaron. God commanded that they would not be given a tribal territory like the other tribes. Instead the Levites would receive tithes from the sacrifices in the Temple. Since the Roman army burned the Temple in A.D. 70 the kohanim priesthood required its members to keep ritually pure by not touching a corpse or marrying a divorcee. 

The scientists obtained genetic samples from the inside of the cheeks of unrelated Jewish men who lived in three nations. They asked if they were Kohanim, related to the priestly tribe. The genetic phenotypes of 188 Jews who believed they were descended from the Kohanim were different genetically from those Jews in the sample who were not kohanim. The researchers found a preponderance of the YAP, DYS19 haplotype in the priestly kohanim This Y chromosome is carried only by men and is passed down father to son patrilineally.Mitichondrial DNA, on the other hand, is transmitted by the mother's X chromosomes. Professor Skorecki explained that it was impressive how the characteristic Y chromosome was passed down the generations despite centuries of assimilation over the last two thousand years. Professor Skorecki did not choose kohanim based on their names (Cohen, Rappaport, or Shapiro, etc.). Rather, they asked if their family tradition claimed they were kohanim. 

Dr. Skorecki and his fellow researchers discovered a preponderance of the YAP, DYS19 haplotype in the priestly kohanim but they did not find this in Jews that were not descended from the kohanim. This genetic evidence was found in kohanim from both the Ashkenazi (European) and the Sephardi (Spanish and Middle Eastern) branches of the worldwide Jewish population. This is a strong proof that the Aaronic priesthood existed in the distant past as the Bible relates. This provides fascinating evidence that the Jewish priesthood predated the division of the Jewish people into the Ashkenazi and the Sephardi branches, these two major ethnic groups, which occurred approximately a 1,000 years ago during the Middle Ages." 

When Earl's results were read, it said he, his father, his grandfather and his great-grandfathers all the way back to "the beginning" were in the Haplogroup E3b group:  they had the DNA of Israelite SEMITES!   Further, one of the first spectacular applications of Y-chromosome testing was the discovery that Jewish Cohanim [the Priestly lineage descending from Aaron] exhibited a particular Y-chromosome haplotype, called the Cohen Modal Haplotype (CMH). Jewish Cohens are believed to be descended from the priests of biblical Israel by patrilineal descent, and, hence, their Y chromosomes should be descended from that of Aaron, the first priest. 

The first study announcing this discovery supported its case by showing a spectacular difference between Cohanim and non-Cohanim Jews. The Cohanim had trace frequencies of Haplogroup E3b, and a particular DYS19 allele at high frequency. This finding pdrove different histories for priests and non-priests. However, it did not prove descent from a single individual because the YAP- DYS19B combination is not a monophyletic lineage. 

Another study, the authors discovered a more extended version of the same haplotype (DYS19-14, DYS388-16,
DYS390-23, DYS391-10, DYS392-11, DYS393-12) at high frequency in the Lemba [Black Jews] of Southern Africa, as well as in Jews. That meant that all six DYS markers present in a male's DNA haplotype shows descendence from the Cohanim (Aaron the High Priest) lineage.  FOR ONLY THE MALE DESCENDENTS OF AARON HAVE ALL OF THESE SIX MARKERS.  So what a shock it was for the Israelis to discover that BLACK MALES had the same six markers and in the same HIGH porportion as the Jewish priesthood males and in similar or higher percentages!!

A prestigious scientific team collected DNA samples from African, Yemeni (Arab), and Sephardic Jews and Azhkenazi Jews (including Cohanim from both communities) to compare the amount of similarity that existed between each of these groups. 

B L A C K  B L O O D  I N  I S R A E L:   In an interview with NOVA, team member Dr. David Goldstein commented on the team's findings: "The first striking thing about the Y chromosomes of the Lemba [purported Black Israelites in exile in Africa] is that you find this particular chromosomal type (the Cohen - Aaron Priesthood - modalhaplotype) that is characteristic of the Jewish priesthood in a frequency that is similar to what you see in major Jewish populations. Something just under one out of every 10 Lemba that we looked at had this particular Y chromosomal type that appears to be a signature of Jewish ancestry. Perhaps even more striking is the fact that this Cohen genetic signature is strongly associated with a particular clan in the Lemba. Most of the Cohen modal haplotypes that we observe are carried by individuals of the Buba clan which, in Lemba oral tradition, had a leadership role in bringing the Lemba out of Israel."
What this study shows is that the Lemba, and more specifically some members of the Buba sub-clan, seem to have an ancestral connection to Judaic populations. Like an oral history, but written in the letters of their DNA, the Lemba Y chromosome hands from father to son a living record of the past. 

And what a shock it was to discover that OUR Daddy and brother and father Uncle Earl's DNA Y-Chromosomes contained ALL SIX OF THE COHANIM PRIESTLY LINEAGE MARKERS (the ones in blue below are the 6 markers ONLY IN THE AARONIC  PRIESTLY LINEAGE FOR 3,300 YEARS OR 1,000 GENERATIONS): 

Here is the proof, the official record!
 DADDY'S AND EARL'S  Y CHROMOSOMES DATA
Type: Y-Chromosome
Haplogroup: E3b (M35)
Their STRs are:
DYS393: 15
DYS439: 12
DYS388: 12
DYS385a: 15
DYS19: 13
DYS389-1: 11
DYS390: 25
DYS385b: 17
DYS391: 11
DYS389-2: 19
DYS426: 11
DYS392: 11

From the TV program on NOVA: 

"OUT OF AFRICA

The Ethiopian Jews
Perhaps most well-known of the claimants of Lost Tribe status are the black Jews of Ethiopia, formerly known as Falashas. 

There are a number of theories about the origins of the Ethiopian Jews. One is that after the Exodus from Egypt they broke off and made their way down the coast of Africa to Ethiopia. Another is that they emigrated from Israel after the time of the destruction of First and SecondTemples. Their origin tradition is that the Queen of Sheba (Ethiopia), upon meeting King Solomon, converted to Judaism and bore him a son, Menelik. They believe that they are descended from the Hebrew notables sent with Menelik from Jerusalem to Ethiopia at that time.  [the DNA will now tell the true tale and who is telling the truth!] 

The National Flag of Ethiopia

From Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia

Ethiopia Crest

Amharic, official language of Ethiopia

Amharic is a Semitic language spoken in North Central Ethiopia. It is the second most spoken Semitic language in the world, after Arabic. It is the "official working" language of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and thus has official status nationwide. It is also the official or working language of several of the states within the federal system, including Amhara and the multi-ethnic Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples region. It has been the working language of government, the military, and of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church throughout modern times. Outside Ethiopia, Amharic is the language of some 2.7 million emigrants (notably in Egypt, Israel and Sweden), and is spoken in Eritrea by educated Eritreans of the preindependence generation and younger deportees from Ethiopia.

It is written using a writing system adapted from the one used for the now-extinct Ge'ez language.

The Falashas - Significant populations in: Israel: 90,000 (est.); Ethiopia: 15,000 (est.).  Religion: Judaism

Related ethnic groups: • Amharas • Tigrays • Jews   • African Jews  • Qemant  • Falash Mura  • Other Jewish groups

The Beta Israel (or "House of Israel"), known by outsiders by the term Falasha ("exiles" or "strangers"), a term that they consider to be pejorative, are Jews of Ethiopian origin. Under the provisions of Israel's "Law of Return" (1950), over 90,000 (over 80%) of them have emigrated to Israel, most notably during Operation Moses and Operation Solomon, but also continuing until the present time. The related Falash Mura are Ethiopian Jews who converted to Christianity in the past, but have since returned to Judaism.

Their Judaism is based on the Written Torah only, as they lacked all sources of the Oral Law. Their sacred texts are not in Hebrew, but written in Ge'ez - the Amharic language. Due to religious persecution, the community moved inland to the region of Gondar, becoming a semi-autonomous Jewish kingdom. Their over 1,000 year history includes victorious wars against other local tribes. Their heroes include leaders named Gideon and the Jewish queen Judith. For centuries Christians have persecuted and attempted conversion of the Falashas. 

Throughout their history, in their liturgy and customs, they have expressed a longing for Zion and the land of Israel. The entire community was airlifted out of Africa to Israel in the early 1990's. Some rabbinical authorities have considered them to be remnants of the Tribe of Dan. 

In something of a reenactment of the Exodus from Egypt, thousands of Ethiopians trekked for miles to reach the border and their flight to freedom and full citizenship in Israel. Within hours these traditional tribal people of Africa were transported into the modern world. Not only had they never seen an airplane before, but they had never seen stairs that lead up to the plane! Over 20,000 Ethiopian Jews have been welcomed home to their Promised Land. 

The Lemba are also Black Jews

Located in South Africa, particularly in the region known as the Venda, live a group of black Africans who claim descent from the ancient Hebrews. These are the Lemba. Though converted to Christianity, they maintain some Jewish-style practices including circumcision,Shofar (with a rhinoceros horn) and a degree of Kashrut - not eating meat with milk, nor pork. Their tribal emblem is an elephant within the Star of David. 

Though some believe they are related to the Ethiopian Jews, the main Lemba origin legend is that they are descendants of the Hebrews who emigrated from Israel to Yemen, and from their legendary vanished city of Sana'a, possibly in Yemen, across the straits to the east coast of Africa to Zimbabwe and South Africa. 

Lemba elders believe firmly that they are Jewish by lineage, if not by practice. Among theLemba, the senior clan is the Buba, which some say means "fromJudah." Buba is believed to be the early founder of the tribe. These men have different skin coloration and facial features than other Africans. 

Genetic studies on the Lemba have indicated that they are of a different ethnic origin than their African neighbors. There is a definite Semitic contribution to the Lemba. A particular Y-chromosome haplotype (a combination of unique DNA markers) which occurs among Jewish men and especially among Kohanim was also found in a significant percentage of Lemba men, and particularly among the Buba clan. This indicates that some of the male lineage of the Lemba may indeed have a source among the Hebrews, most likely derived from Yemenite Jewish males, many centuries ago."  [the DNA will now tell the true tale and who is telling the truth!] 

This our fathers, grandfathers all, brother's evidence of the truth:  they, and we, their descendents, children and grandchildren - through them are Semites:  Israelite Jews, from the ancient male side down to the present.  Now to find which of the lost 12 tribes of Israel we are from! Further tests are now being done to formally attest to the fact of being Israelite Jew!  IF the further tests affirm the Cohen Modal haplotype, we will know we are of the Tribe of Levi.  But, there are hints that we, the Black Jews, go back to Abraham!  This is shocking stuff that has me shaking!   And yet, when I look at the Bible record of Ethiopia (Cush), I can't help but face the perfectly remarkable fact that, instead of us, the Ethiopians (Cushites) being descendent of the Jews, it is highly, highly possible - biblically - that the Ethiopians precede the Jews!  That they come after us in history.  In biblical history, we are there in the Garden of Eden (Chapter two of Genesis:  Cush).  Also, Moses married a Cushite - Ethiopian - woman, Zipporah. If they had offspring and any of them were sons, Moses' Y Chromosome would be in that son or those sons, no matter how dark-skinned they be!

So....our genealogical line precedes - comes before - the Jewish priesthood.  Indeed, Ham, the father of Cush, was the son of Noah.  Noah's Y Chromosome would be in those sons, Ham, Shem and Japheth.  Abraham, Moses, Isaac, Ishmael, Jacob, etal are from that same line.  Ethiopia, as Cush, was there in the Garden of Eden.  How blessed and cool is that?

 Now back to the rest of the story:

THE TRUE, DISCOVERED LINEAGE OF OUR FATHER AND GRANDFATHER, MARION TAYLOR BARNES (SHIRLEY):  ISRAELITE SEMITIC (JEWISH) DNA Haplogroup E3b, Ancient Semitic line out of the Mediterranean (Middle East) and later Ethiopian and European areas

Benjamin Shirley – Branch 4 of the Shirley DNA Tree -

His forefathers immigrated from Europe; b. ca 1760 in Virginia. Family moved then to South Carolina.

Great-great-great Grandfather of Marion Barnes Shirley:

Benjamin Shirley (Israelite Semite) b. 1760's  died Aug 1824 Abbeville South Carolina.  Married Elizabeth Hughes.

children:
Great-great Grandfather of Marion Barnes Shirley:

    1. Nathaniel (Israelite Semite), b.June 20, 1787  died July 11, 1849  Typhoid fever. He married Nancy Grubbs, daughter of Richard and Elizabeth Mitchell Grubbs.

children:
Great Grandfather of Marion Barnes Shirley:

   1. Benjamin Shirley (Israelite Semite), b. Aug 28, 1814 near Due West, Abbeville Co. South Carolina. He was called "Bottom Ben". He died January 17, 1894 Hart Co. Georgia. married Katherine Latimer born Nov 1, 1824 Honea Path, South Carolina, daughter of  Benjamin and Dicie Grubbs Latimer. They settled in Franklin Co.  Georgia, but when the new county was formed, they found themselves in Hart County. They are buried in Shoal Creek Cemetery in Hart Co. GA. Benjamin was a farmer. Hartwell, Hart County, GA is where all our Black relatives, too, live today.

      Children:

Grandfather[possibility] of Marion Barnes Shirley:

Sandy Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1840 in SC; fathered by a white Israelite Semitic immigrant from Europe with a Black woman; d. sometime after the 1930 census in Cobb, GA; had to be the son of a Caucasian father (Jewish) as his father immigrated from Europe and his mother was born in GA.  She is the one who had to be Black for, at that time, no Caucasian woman would have lived who married a Black man!  So...this Jewish father of Sandy would have been Marion's Great-Grandfather; Sandy's Black mother would have been  Marion's Great-Grandmother, born in GA; Sandy married Francis (Fannie), a mulatto, born somewhere between late 1840s and early 1850s; in that they were married, they must have been free and not slaves; they are listed in the 1870 and 1880 censuses as husband and wife.  1870 is prior to the Civil War, so they had to be free in order to marry as slaves were not permitted to marry nor were they listed as heads of households in censuses back and Sandy and Francis (Fannie) were listed;  there is a Fannie Barnes buried in the Blacks’ Flat Rock Church cemetery in Hart County, GA who lived to be 109 years of age.

She died in 1959 so she fits the age time frame of Sandy Barnes' mother.  My eldest sister, Vernelle, who was only one of the sibling old enough to remember anything about our GA years prior to immigrating to PA, remembers seeing a Fannie Barnes who was the grandmother of Marion, who also helped to raise him shortly after his birth.  Sandy and Francis (Fannie) had many children, among who were:

    1.  DAUGHTER:  Elizabeth Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1866

    2. DAUGHTER:  Virginia Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1868

Father of Marion Barnes Shirley::

    3.  SON:  WILLIAM BARNES (SHIRLEY), a mulatto; b. 1872; was still alive in the 1930 Hart County, GA census.  William is listed in the 1910, 1920 and 1930 Hart County Censuses as being single.

    Children:

Our Father:

    a.  Marion Taylor Harris/Barnes/Shirley: SON OF WILLIAM BARNES SHIRLEY  b. 1907 in Hart County, GA; d.1963;  Marion’smother was Minnie Harris, Hart County, GA, daughter of Elisha Harris, Marion's grandfather who raised Marion as a Harris;  Marion Taylor married  (Pecola) Nobie Gaines (b. 1912; d. 1997)  August 25, 1929.  Marion lived as a Harris until Social Security law, in 1936 required all citizens to register in the names of the father and mother on the birth certificate.  William Barnes (Shirley) is noted as father on Marion's birth certificate.

Marion and Nobie had six children: Vernelle, b. 1930;  Dorothy, b. 1932;  Fannie Ruth, b. 1934;  Barbara Jean, b. 1936; Juanita Sue, b. 1938; Marion Earl, b. 1940

ANCESTRY.COM - IN THEIR HISTORICAL SECTION - HAS A FANNIE BARNES (MULATTO), A WILLIAM BARNES (MULATTO) AND A MINNIE HARRIS (BLACK) ALL LIVING IN THE SAME DISTRICT (MILITIA DISTRICT), SAME COUNTY (HART) AT THE SAME TIME.

Sandy Barnes (mulatto Shirley), the Barnes Shirley patriarch was living alone in Cobb, GA in the 1930 census at the age of 90 years.  His birth coincides with that of "Bottom Ben's" white children.  It appears that Benjamin “Bottom Ben” is Sandy Barnes father.

MARION TAYLOR’S BARNES ANCESTORS & DESCENDENTS (HIS FATHER’S SIDE OF THE FAMILY) :

These are the other children of Sandy and Francis Barnes who are Marion’s Aunts & Uncles:

    4.  DAUGHTER:  Fannie Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1874.

    5.  DAUGHTER:  Anna Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1875

    6.  SON:  Nathaniel Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1878; he would carry and pass on the Jewish DNA to any sons he would bear as Marion did with our brother, Marion Earl.

7.  DAUGHTER:  Odessa Barnes (Shirley), a mullato; b. 1880
HAD NOT NOTICED BEFORE THAT DADDY'S ( MARION) MOTHER, MINNIE HARRIS CRAFT, LATER NAMED A SON, NATHANIEL, AND A DAUGHTER, ANNIE!!!!!  I AM ALSO NAMED FANNIE

Sandy and Fannie must have had other children as she is living - apart from Sandy - in Hart County, GA in the 1920 census with younger sons and daughters.  These, too, would be Marion’s Aunts and Uncles and their children Marion’s Cousins:

    SON:  Edward L. Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1880; married to Mary; with a daughter, Eddie, a mulatto; b. 1913; a son, Ray, a mulatto; b. 1914; a daughter, Willie, a mulatto; b. 1917 and a daughter, Eva, a mulatto, b 1919.

    SON:  Walter Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1889; single, living with his mother, Fannie
    DAUGHTER:  Alice Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1894; single, living with her mother, Fannie
    DAUGHTER:  Pearlie Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1897; single, living with her mother, Fannie
    DAUGHTER:  Gertrude Barnes (Shirley), a mulatto; b. 1897; single, living with her mother, Fannie

WILLIAM BARNES SHIRLEY, mulatto,  Marion's father, was also living in Hart County, GA in the 1920 census and the 1930 census with his brother, Thomas, who was a younger than the 1880 census that mentions the Sandy and Francis family.  Therefore, there were other children born after that time and are noted just above.  Thomas would be Marion’s uncle.

THOMAS BARNES SHIRLEY, mulatto,  b. 1883; brother of Marion's father, William, living in Hart County, GA, was married to Ida, b. 1887.  Their children were:  a son, Reuben, mulatto, b. 1911; a daughter, May or Mary, mulatto, b. 1911; a son, Allman, mulatto, b. 1913; a daughter, Mandy, mulatto, b. 1915; and a son, Hamlet, b. 1923
MARION TAYLOR’S [MOTHER MINNIE’S SIDE] CRAFT AND STRANGE ANCESTORS & DESCENDENTS CRAFTS (Half-sisters, brothers and cousins):

Henry Craft    b. 1850    Hart county, GA    Hartwell District
Lev Craft       b. 1851     Hart county, GA McCurry District
Amanda and Arthur Eugene Craft, Sr. Hart county, GA
son, Arthur Craft, Jr.  Hart County, GA
  son, Rudolph Craft    Hart county, GA
Charlie Joe Craft
Earlie Craft
William Craft
Earcey Craft b. 1884died 1974
Martha Ann Craftb. 1891died 1974
Tom Craft, father of Zeapher V. Lee
AnnieRee Craft  b. August, 1900  died May 10, 1967; son, Robert Joseph Barnes (?); stepsister of Marion
Julian Craft   b. 1915   died 1974
Jameson T. Craftb. June 6, 1919died December 28, 1978
Nathaniel Craft; m. Mary Jo; son, Thomas (Tom); beloved stepbrother of Marion
Zeapher Craft, b. September 3, 1912  died October 2, 1995; son, Andrew "Bim" Craft; stepsister of Marion
Lucille Craft died Oct. 13, 1972
Isham  Craft      died 1880         Elbert
Leah Craft        died 1880         Hart
Martha T. Craft    died 1880        Elbert
Mary Craft     died 1880            Elbert
William Craft  died 1880           Elbert

possibly related:
Abraham Craft    b. 1820  Elbert county, GA   Gaines District
Stephen Craft    b. 1834    Elbert county, GA   Centerville District
Thomas Craft    b. 1839    Elbert county, GA   Centerville District

STRANGE:
Henry Strange    b. 1825  Hart county, GA   Smith District
Newton Strange  b. 1820  Hart county, GA   Smith District
Minnie Hunt Strange, Aunt of Lamar Strange
HamptonStrangedied 1880       Hart county, GA

possibly related:
Arminda Strange    b. 1810 Franklin county, GA  Carnesville
Grace Strange    b. 1792 Franklin county, GA   Middle RVR
Neva Mae Strange, daughter of Rosa Harris Strange
Monk Strange, Daddy's cousin

LAST KNOWN STILL LIVING:
Lamar M. Strange, b. 1914  Daddy's cousin; living in Hartwell, GA  owns and raises beef cattle; retired school teacher.Vernellesays:he owns almost all of Hartwell........I have stayed at his house twice overnight and night fished.

  His children are:
  Dr. Anthony Strange, son
  Sandra Strange, daughter

His sibling are:
Christine Strange Morrison, Daddy's cousin; church organist, sister of Lamar; retired school teacher
Eula Strange Jones, sister of Lamar; Daddy’s cousin
Cynthia Strange, sister of Lamar; Daddy’s cousin
Fannie Strange Underwood, sister of Lamar; Daddy's cousin
Will Strange, brother of Lamar [has three sons who live in Port Chester, NY]; Daddy's cousin
Maxwell Strange, brother of Lamar; Daddy’s cousin
Spencer Strange, brother of Lamar; Daddy's cousin; father of :
  Spencer, Jr.; Vashti; Richard

Marion Taylor Barnes SHIRLEY and (Pecola) Nobie Gaines married August 25, 1929:

Children [ALL MARION’S CHILDREN ARE SHIRLEYS GENETICALLY, NOT BARNES]:
Vernelle (b. 4/29/1930), passed away November, 2004
Nobie and Marion's Daughter, Vernelle (b. 4.29.1930, d. 11/2004); married Donald Bacon (deceased).Vernelle[deceased] was a retired library assistant and church builder.
Vernelle and Donald [both deceased]
Vernelle had eight children:  Gayle Arnetta, Donna Ann, Gary, LaVerne Jean, Jeanine Carol, Phyllis, Harold Lee, Kenneth.

Vernelle

Vernelle and children
Vernelle's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: GayleArnetta Barnes-Price b. 3.10.48
Gayle is Supervisor, Tri-State Children's Detention Home.

         Gayle, Gayle's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
             Sonya Price b. 6.25.1969; James Earl Price b. 6.25.1973

                   Sonya and Derrick McClintock, Bunny McClintock, Sharise, April, Jenea
, Sonya's children, Gayle Arnetta's Grandchildren, Vernelle's Great-grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-grandchildren:
Sharice Price b. 6.18.1986
           April Price b. 4.3.1988
JeNea Price b. 10.18.1991

Vernell's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Donna Ann Bacon Ralph b. 1.12.1950; m. Eugene Ralph.  Donna works in the Finance Department, Dollar Bank, Pittsburgh, PA.

         Donna Ann's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren: Tracey Lavelle Ralph Webster b. 9.5.1968; m. Joseph William Webster III; children:  Joseph William Webster IV and Jasmine Onaya Webster:

Tracy and family
Tracy's children, Donna Ann's Grandchildren, Vernelle's Great-grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-great grandchildren:  Jasmine D. Webster b. 2.5.1995; Joseph Webster Jr.

               Eugene Steven Ralph  b.7.19.1973
Eugene's child, Donna Ann's Grandchild, Vernelle's Great-Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-great grandchild: David Wimbishb. 1.23.95

Vernelle's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Gary Bacon, Sr., b. 1.11.1951; m. Valeria (Pinky). Gary is a dental technician.
            Gary's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
                 Gary Bacon Jr. b. 11.24.1979
                 Gregory b. 9.23.1981
                      Gary Bacon, Jr.'s child, Gary Sr.'s Grandchild, Vernelle's Great-Grandchild, Nobie & Marions's Great-great-grandchild: ( a girl)
           Gregory's child, Gary Sr.'s Grandchild, Vernelle's Great-Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-
grandchild:  (a girl)
Vernelle's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: LaVerne Jean b. 3.6.1952. LaVerne is a Nurse's Aide at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh:

LaVerne
LaVerne's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
Danyiel D. Bacon b. 8.1.1969 and Danyiel's children, LaVerne's Grandchildren, Vernelle's Great-Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-grandchildren: Anthony Horne b. 3.13.1991; Baylie  Horne  b. 3.25.1995

Danyiel and children, Anthony and Baylie

Terriann Patterson, b. 5.12.1983

       Toni M. Bacon b. 4.7.1968:
                                  Toni and family
                  Toni's children, LaVerne's Grandchildren, Vernelle's Great-Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-grandchildren: Lawrence Bacon b. 12.3.1984; LaRon   b. 7.20.1986; Bruce Nelson   b. 7.29.1992
Lawrence's child, Toni's Grandchild, LaVerne's Great-grandchild, Vernelle's Great-Great-   Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-great-grandchild:
                          ?

Vernelle's Child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Jeanine Carol Bacon b. 4.14.1953; Jeanine is Manager, Pittsburgh Water Department:

                               Jeanine

Faye, Jeanine's "baby"

Vernelle's Child, Nobie& Marion's Grandchild:  Phyllis Bacon Fisher b. 5.3.1954; Phyllis is Mail Handler, Pittsburgh Post Office.
Vernelle'sChild,Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:   Harold Lee Bacon b. 12.6.1957; m. Jenell Williams Bacon:  Harold Lee is Warehouse Manager in Snellville, GA.
              Harold Lee's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-Grandchildren:
Tyronda b. 8.5.1979
           Harold L.BaconJr.b. 10.13.1982
           Harold Lee Bacon b. 7.13.1986  (Los Angeles)
           Antoine Deron Bacon  b. 6.1.1987  (Los Angeles)

Vernelle's Child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:   Kenneth D. Bacon b. 12.26.1964; Kenneth is Nursing Home Aide.
          Kenneth's children, Vernelle's Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
               Kenneth Patterson b. 5.20.1989
           Donald Edward Patterson b. 2.14.93--(Deceased 2.14.1993)
           Jasmine D.Patterson b. 2.12.1995
               A set of twins (?)

Dorothy (b. 4/4/1932)
Dorothy Barnes (b. 4.4.1932) and Harold Akrie (b. 5.14.1926); married 8.22.1953. Dorothy is a community activist, feted church "mother", and a noted church leader.
  Dorothy had four children:  Joy Ann, Terri Lynn, Francine Elizabeth, Gerald Dwayne.

Dorothy, Harold and family
     Dorothy's child,Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Joy Ann Akrieb.10.6.1954 ; m. Christopher Columbus Adams 3rd b. 2.5.1956 (deceased); Joy is an administrative aide for the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh.
          Joy Ann's children, Dorothy's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
           Christopher Anthony Adams, b. 5.6.1983
           Matthew David Adams b. 1.16.1989
Christoper's daughter, Hayley

Joy and sons, Christopher and Matthew Akrie

Joy's son and granddaughter
Christopher and daughter, Hayley
      Dorothy's child, Nobie & Marion's GrandChild:  Terri Lynn Akrie Goodman b. 8.29.1956; m. Craig Goodman. Terri is a flight attendant for US Air (27 years).
          Teri Lynn's Children, Dorothy's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
              Harold Michael Akrie, b. 7.26.1983
           Loren KevinAkrie Goodman, b. 6.17.1987
     Dorothy's child, Nobie & Marion's GrandChild:Francine Elizabeth Akrie Martin, b. 7.11.1959; m. Russell Martin, b. 1.25.1960.  Francine graduated from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and is employed by American College of Physicians - American Society of Internal Medicine in Philadelphia, PA in Education and Career Development. Fran assists in the development, implementation and monitoring of specific initiatives for the Department of Education and Career Development including staff supervision, quality assurance and department representation.
          Francine Elizabeth's children, Dorothy's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
McKinsi Elizabeth Martin, b. 3.18.1993
           Alexander Christian Martin, b. 7.5.1995

Fran, Russell and children, McKinsi and Alex
 Alex and McKinsi
McKinsi has a passion for books, reading and creating stories.  At the age of 5, she began writing, illustrating and selling her stapled bound books for $5.00 each.  By the age of 8, she created "Mandy", which was illustrated by McKinsi's grandmother, Dorothy.

     Dorothy's child, Nobie & Marion's GrandChild: Gerald Dwayne Akrie, b. 10.3.1961; m. Carole Elizabeth French, of Trinidad, b. 11.4.1960. Gerald is pastor of St. Paul's AME Zion Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  He is a graduate of Christ For The NationCollege in Dallas, Texas and is attending Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Gerald was ordained as a Pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church in Carnegie, Pa. in October, the year 2000.
          Gerald Dwayne's children, Dorothy's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
           Alicia Elizabeth Akrie b. 1.6.1990
           Gerald Nathaniel Akrie b. 6.2.1991
           Danielle Marie Akrie b. 6.17.1994
           Joel Zachary Akrie b. 9.26.1995

Fannie Ruth (b. 3/14/1934)

Fannie and Raymond
Fannie and Raymond Linder married  1.30.1953.  Fannie has a doctorate in psychology, has been a concert soprano here and abroad, is a Bible teacher, retreat leader, a community leader and a patron of the arts; 1965 Outstanding Young Women of America.

    Fannie Ruth had two children:  Raymond Terence and Michael Craig.
        Fannie Ruth's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Raymond Terence b. 6.14.1954; m. Christine Muriel Strum 5.14.1983

Raymond Terence & Christine
Ray has an MBA in finance and economics, author of nationally published books, national TV and radio personality, business consultant/OKA associate; Outstanding Young Men of America
            Raymond Terence's children, Fannie Ruth's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-Grandchildren:
Diandra Nicole  b. 5.22.1989
           Cassandra Christine  b. 4.16.1992

Diandra                      Cassandra
         Fannie Ruth's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Michael Craig b.9.10.1958 ; m. Colleen Jo Butgereit 2.10.1996

Michael Craig and Colleen
Michael is a senior Vice-President of sales and Chief Marketing Officer
with a national publishing firm, patron of the arts, community activist
             Michael's child, Fannie Ruth's Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchild:
           Logan James  b. 9.24.2000

Logan James
child model
Barbara Jean (b. 2/8/1936)
Barbara Jean and Willie Arthur Cheatham married 12.14.1956.  Barbara is a retired Civil Service administrator, serving overseas and stateside, a community activist and caretaker of friends.
   Barbara Jean had three children:  Cheryl Lynn, Daryl Arthur, Harold Michael

Barbara and sons, Harold and Daryl
       Barbara Jean's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Cheryl Lynn b. 4.3.1961; m. Jerry Hannah 9.19.1987
           Cheryl Lynn's child, Barbara Jean's Grandchild, Nobie's Great-Grandchild: ShawniceLynneab. 6.24.1988

Cheryl, Shawnice and Jerry
       Barbara Jean's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Daryl Arthur b. 12.2.1964.  Daryl is a media , Motown
        Barbara Jean's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:   Harold Michael b. 5.5.1966; m. Cynthia Odoms, 2.20.1993.  Harold honorably serves the country in the U. S. Army in Europe.

Juanita Sue (b. 11.25 1938)
Juanita and William A. Mitchell married 9.21.1957. Juanita is a teacher assistant in the Pittsburgh school system.
    Juanita Sue had three children:  William Elijah, Jacqueline Yvette, Paul Edward

Juanita and grandchildren
        Juanita Sue's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: William Elijah Mitchell  b. 4.5.1958 Saturday 5am.
             William's Elijah's children, Juanita Sue's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren :
                           (5?)
         Juanita Sue's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Jacqueline Yvette b. 3.3.1962  Saturday2.20am
              Jacqueline Yvette's children, Juanita Sue's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
           (3?)
         Juanita Sue's child,Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Paul Edward  b.11.17.1962. Paul is a noted chef for celebrities in Florida.
Marion Earl (b. 12/10/1940)
   Marion Earl and Brenda Thompson married 12.5.1975. Earl is an ordained lay minister, professional graphics artist, a community activist - coaching youth sports programs.
       Marion Earl had five children:  Kevin Charles, Leah Ruth, Aaron, Hilary, Linda

Earl, Brenda and family
            Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Kevin Charles b. 5.31.75.   Kevin is a PennState graduate in Business Administration. Kevin was a noted basketball star at SewicklyAcademy,
             Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Leah Ruth b. 9.15.76.  Leah attended PennState and  is a dental technician in the U. S. Army.
             Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Aaron Taylor b. 12.26.80.  Aaron is a student at Edinboro, College in PA. and is quite a basketball player, also.
              Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Hilary Dianeb. 1.12.82. Hilary is also a student at Edinboroand a gifted athlete.
              Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's GrandChild:  Linda Maria Nobie b. 2.28.85.

Marion’s and Nobie's "Kids"

THE REST OF THE SHIRLEY FAMILY:

Great-great-great Grandtather Benjamin “Bottom Ben” Shirley’s other children (the white ones):

A.. Sons... twins, died same day

B. Joseph Ann Jan 10, 1844 Anderson Co. South Carolina, died Oct 20, 1908 Hart Co. GA, m. John Thompson Holland March 27, 1866. He was born 1844 Anderson Co. SC and died 1928 Hart Co. GA.  They are buried Shoal Creek Cemetery. John was the son of Jefferson Holland, May 28, 1812, Pendleton, died Oct 7, 1893, m. 1st Mary Barton. She died at birth of her only son. He married 2nd her sister, Nancy Barton, a brother of Rev. H. M. Barton.

children:
(a). Benjamin Martin Holland June 12, 1867, m. Eleanor Electa Walters Feb 18, 1892
(b). Perry J. Holland 1871, d. Oct 31, 1901
(c). Erwin (Epp) Hampton Holland 1874

C. James Nathaniel March 9, 1846, died July 26, 1913, buried Providence Cemetery Hart Co. Georgia. He married Matilda (Hulda) J. Parker Dec 19, 1866 in Hart Co. GA.

Children: (born Lowndesville SC or Hart Co. GA)
(a). James 1867
(b). Annie Rosalee Sept 28, 1868, died June 9, 1915
(c). Maude Letitia Feb 28, 1871. died Sept 27, 1912
(d). Lillie B. Dec 5, 1873, died July 1, 1874
(e). Lester Dec 5, 1874, married Achshah Bernice Reeder, daughter of Charles and Fannie Parker Reeder. Achshan was born March 5, 1886 Shoal Creek, Hart Co. GA.

children:
1. Sarah Lucile May 5, 1909 m. Thomas Bartlett
2. Blanton Parker Dec 3. 1911 m. Margaret Clark
3. Ruby Nell Nov 24, 1913 m. George Tyler
4. Harold Lester Mar 8, 1915 m. Freddie Elam
5. Charles Nathaniel April 28, 1917 m. Vera Fauset
6. Max Reeder Nov 21, 1919

(f). Jessie 1875, died Feb 14, 1949 m. Ferrell Kay.
(g). Walter B. March 10, 1876, committed suicide Nov 29, 1913.
(h). Carrie 1877
(i). Glenn W. Aug 7, 1878, married Lilla Thomas of South Union, daughter of W. L. and Eliz. Crawford Thomas.

Children:
1. James T. m. Nancy Dodds
2. Cecile m. George A. Ansel
3. Audrey
4. Virginia
D. Richard Butler May 28, 1848 Abbeville Co. South Carolina, died May 27, 1920 at age 72 in Hart Co. GA. He married 1st, Minerva Elvira (Vira) Parker March 6, 1877. She was born Sept 11, 1848 GA, died March 9, 1879, daughter of Lewis and Matilda Swann Parker. He married 2nd, Eliz. (Betty) Colquitt, widow Green.
Children:
(a). Lilly Jan 30, 1878, m. Flaval Bond of Cannon Co. GA Nov 16, 1900. Parents of 3 children.
(b). Benjamin S. March 1, 1879, died March 1879
(c). Ella Daisy Aug 5, 1883, m. J.D. Voyles
(d). Sarah Ethel April 24, 1886 m. T.F. Wright Dec 16, 1907
(e). Carrie Bessie Sept 29, 1888, m. J.W. Pepper Nov 9, 1901
(f). Annie Gladys Feb 29, 1891, m. W.L. Thurmond May 10, 1925
(g). Leo Bertram July 18, 1893, m. Lauree Parks Dec 16, 1916
(h).  Audrey Colquitt Aug 10, 1896
(i). Robert Butler Aug 17, 1902, m. Estelle Dowdy May 1, 1927
E. Jasper (Jap) W. Sept 9, 1850 near Honea Path, Abbeville Co. South Carolina, died Dec 23, 1935 at age 85 years. He married 1st, Thurza Ann Shirley Oct 26, 1873 at Fords Store, Hart Co. GA. She was born Feb 28, 1854 Anderson Co. SC and died Mar 1947. She was the daughter of Benjamin T. and Mary Ann Brock Shirley. (Benj. T. Shirley was the son of John Riley Shirley born March 25, 1798, son of Benj. and Eliz Hughes Shirley).
Children:
(a. Eula E. April 22, 1876 Hart Co. GA, m. Cortez O. Hunt
(b). Hayden Claude Jan 26, 1878 Hart Co. GA, m. Lillian Johnson
(c). Ernest Gregory Nov 17, 1879 Hart Co. GA, died Sept 15, 1881 Shoal Creek
(d). Garland Latimer April 6, 1882 Jackson Co. GA, m. Jenny Lind Roebush
(f). Bonnie Mae April 19, 1884, m. Robert C. Nix
(g). Kate Ruth Aug 4, 1886, m. Carl Williamson
(h). Preston Opal Jan 23, 1889, m. Lena Mae Turner
(i). Gerald Judson Dec 25, 1891, m. Cora Belle Smith
(j). Harold Hoke July 2, 1894, m. Edna Swindett
(k). Eunice Mary Oct 28, 1896, m. George Hubbard
F. Millard T. Dec 7, 1852 near Honea Path, Abbeville Co. SC, died Feb 22, 1934 Lavonia, Franklin Co., Georgia, m. 1st Sidney A. Price Oct 15, 1874. She was born March 30, 1858 Lavonia, Franklin Co. GA, died Nov 25, 1889, daughter of William F. and Annie Fisher Price. (Annie was the daughter of Samuel and Rhoda Wakefield Fisher).  He m. 2nd Talulla Moorehead (Crawford). Both are buried in Shoal Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.
(a). William Ottis Oct 23, 1875, m. Susan Emma Tyler Mar 13, 1898
Children:
1. Grace Marie Mar 25, 1899 m. Green R. Andrews
2. Boyd Cameron April 1, 1901 m. Annie Julia Cheek
3. Magwillie Feb 13, 1903 m. John A. Johnson (John was 1st married to Reba Holland, dau of Ben).
(b). Gertrude May 23, 1878, m. Laurel Madden
(c). Coyt Nov 23, 1880. m. Annie Mayfield
(d). Kirby Oct 20, 1882, m. Flora Pound
(e). Clyde Sept 20, 1887, m. Catherine Sadler
G. Jefferson O. Oct 4, 1854 Ford's Store, Hart Co. GA, died Aug 22, 1929, buried Ware Shoals, Hart Co. GA, m. Parthenia Warsham Nov 29, 1877 Hart Co. GA. She was born Jan 5, 1855.
Children:
(a). Lollie 1882, m. Thomas Croft
(b). Orr Jan 21, 1884,  m. Ola Leonard
(c). Carleton Sept 31, 1887, m. Nettie Campbell
H. Joshua   September 30, 1856 Ford's Store, Hart Co. GA and died April 30, 1926, m. Kittie Black
Children:
(a). Ernest b. 20 Sept 1881 and d. 25 May 1971, m. 1st Lucy Holland, m. 2nd Miss. Herring
(b). Carrie Mae b. 5 Jan 1885 and d. 16 Oct 1966,  m. Mr. Burton
(c). Arthur Gaines b. Oct 1886 and d. 10 June 1938
(d). Annie Elizabeth b. Nov 1888 and d. Sept 1911,  m. Mr. Holbrook
(3). Beulah b. 15 Aug 1891 and d. 13 Dec 1892
(f). Ruth Lee b. 15 Sept 1892 and d. 28 Nov 1974
(g). Guy Benjamin b. 1 June 1897 and d. 11 Oct 1971
I. Nancy Ellen Jan 3, 1860, died July 4, 1901
J. Dicie M. 1861, died 1934, spinster
K. Robert E. June 21, 1866 Bowersville, Hart Co. GA, died Dec 20, 1935, m. Minnie Adeholt Feb 5, 1901 Franklin Co. GA.
children:
(a). John Benjamin Feb 24, 1902, m.   Faye Davis
(b). Catherine April 26, 1904, m. Hoyt Webb

(2). Richard Shirley Sept 10, 1816 Abbeville South Carolina, died Feb 14 1862 (Tyfoid Fever).  He m. 1st Mary Foster Mattison Aug 1, 1839. She was the Daughter of Wm. Mattison b. 1781 Culpeper Co. Va and Eliza Wyatt  born 1796 Fairfax Co. Va and died in Anderson Co. SC.  He married 2nd Eliz. Carolyn Armstrong in 1849. She died in 1908 Lavonia GA. She was the daughter of Archibald and Mary Ann (Branyon) Armstrong. (She m. 2nd Robert Ira Watson).
Children by Mary
A. Nancy Eliz. May 8, 1840 d. July 13, 1904 Franklin Co. GA m. William Harrison Crawford Oct 24, 1858 Hart Co. GA
Children:
(a). Hugh CRAWFORD Mar 1, 1860 m. Nancy Ada Miller
(b). Matison Barton CRAWFORD Dec 25, 1862 m. Nancy Wakecaster
(c). William Benjamin CRAWFORD Aug 1, 1864 m. 1st Leila Delphine Jackson, m 2nd___
(d). Samuel Sloan CRAWFORD   1824 d. age 24 unmarried
(e). Robert Lee CRAWFORD 1868 m. Viola Dunivan, lived Texas
(f). Dr. James Harrison CRAWFORD 1872 m. Blanche Katcherside April 22, 1909
(g). Paul Edins CRAWFORD 1874 d. age 16 years
(h). Bud CRAWFORD Feb 24, 1878 m. Blanche Meunier Feb 28, 1904
B. William Mattison Mar or May 22, 1841 d. Jan 4, 1862 Abbeville Co. SC
C. Lumima Catherine Eliza Jan 6, 1843 near Hone Path, Abbeville Co. SC  d. Sept 26, 1926 m. George Naylor Burroughs Nov 18, 1858 Hart Co. GA. He was b. Nov 8, 1834 Franklin Co. GA d. Jan 28, 1898. He was the grandson of Henry Burroughs.
children:  (photos)
(a). William R. BURROUGHS March 14,  1860  Killed Feb 21, 1895 m. Josephine Pulliam
(b). Benjamin Matison BURROUGHS Dec 15, 1861 m. Susan  Pulliam Sept 18, 1885 (sister of Josephine)
(c). Mary E. BURROUGHS m. Jesse LeCroy (4 children)
(d). Sarah BURROUGHS m. James Tony
(e). Frederick "Gus" BURROUGHS April 7, 1868 d. July 15, 1911 m. Stella Leslie
(f). Freeman BURROUGHS m. Ninette Mulkey
(g). Emory BURROUGHS   (was a bachelor)
(h). Samuel BURROUGHS Jan 18, 1876 Killed on  Sept 12, 1905 m. Katherine Mitchell  (2 children)
D. Benjamin Nathaniel Feb 9, 1845 Near Honea Path, Abbeville Co. SC d. Feb 14, 1901 Carnesville, Franklin Co. GA, m. Martha Cora Holbrook Nov 5, 1869 Hart Co. GA.  She was born April 10, 1848 Hart Co. GA d. Nov 16, 1910 Rexburg Idaho.
He was the first of this family to join the Latter Day Saints Church (Sept 20, 1897)
children:
(a). Other Theopholis  April 1, 1871, m. Agnes Cicily Fore Jan 27, 1894
(b). Thomas Oscar Sept 23, 1873 d. Jan 12, 1907 Carnesville, Franklin Co. GA m. Hattie Lauretta Sanders
(c). Richard Durell Oct 8, 1875, m. Susan Millisa Bailer July 22, 1911. She was born April 24, 1874 IL, d. Nov 24, 1954 Sacramento, California
(d). Orzo Thaddeus April 14, 1877 m. Minnie Walters Dec 20, 1903
(e). Luther Adolphus Jackson May 19, 1879
(f). Frederick Desra Mar 6, 1881 m. Hattie Miller April 22, 1908
(g). Mary Vera May 7, 1883 m. Carion Ross Holland Dec 8, 1908
(h). Clyde Ernest Nov 3, 1885 m. Ossie Bowers Mar 16, 1916
(i). Lula Maude Dec 28, 1887 m. Jo Hyrum Sharp Aug 8, 1910
(j). Annie Beatrice Oct 31, 1891 m. H. H. Thompson July 7, 1912
E. Mary Garrellia Nov 2, 1847 d. 1857.
(Richard's children by 2nd. to Eliz. Carolyn Armstrong)
F. Elivira Eliza Dec 11, 1849 m. Joseph Jackson
G. Richard Armstrong Sept 10, 1851 Ford's store, Hart Co. GA., died Nov 24, 1882 Elgin TX. He m. Tomma Catelle Hamm and she died in 1881 Harrison Co. TX.  He courted a lady in Bastrop TX.  Her brother heard he was a married man and killed him.
Children:
(a). Samuel Dolphus Nov 11, 1875 d. Sept 9, 1964 buried Safford AZ  (not married).
(b). Clyde Eustace Aug 28, 1877 m. Eliz. Crosthweight Nov 11, 1897
(c). Lottie B. (Jaqueline) Jan 29, 1879 m. John Richard Jackson June 28, 1896
(d). Richard Benjamin June 20, 1881 d. July 11, 1881
(e). Mattie Elvira June 20, 1881 d. July 14, 1881
H. Martha "Mattie" Ann July 11, 1853 d. April 18, 1931 Rexburg, Idaho m. William Jasper Eshew b. Oct 1, 1841 d. July 10, 1921 Atlanta GA.
children:
(a). Turah Maude ESHEW  Dec 24, 1873 d. Feb 2, 1946 m. 1st. Thomas Moore, 2nd Mr. Gillespie of Salt Lake City Utah.
(b). Cora Elizabeth Dec 24, 1875 m. Sanford Sunderland
(c). Ada Kate ESHEW May 3, 1878 Habersham Co. GA m. Allan Siglin
(d). Martha Laura ESHEW Aug 3, 1881 m. Will Croft
(e). Lucy Irene ESHEW Jan 16. 1885 Carnesville GA m. Richard Lankford
(f). Alice Coswell ESHEW Aug 15, 1890 Bowersville, GA m. Neeley C. Nelson
I. Mamie Alpha Ritta Feb 10, 1855 m.  Thomas Looney. She was a school teacher. She had infantile paralysis and was a cripple for life, d. July 1, 1891.
children:
(a). Bessie LOONEY 1888 buried in Louisiana
(b). Annie LOONEY July 22, 1890 d. June 10, 1891
J. Gustavos Adolphus Feb 1 or 10, 1858 Hart Co. GA d. Aug 12, 1939 Lynwood CA, m. Rose Lee Adams (This family lived in AZ and California).
children:
(a). Bonna 'A' Octa Aug 8, 1891 m. McCager Smithson May 31, 1911
(b). Lois Eliz. Oct 3, 1894 m/ Burt Roundy McColl May 30, 1914
(c). Willie Mae April 9, 1896 d. Oct 26, 1911 Typhoid Fever and is buried Safford AZ
(d). Nellie Feb 23, 1898 m. George D. Stubblefield Dec 26, 1929
(e). Rufus Newell June 7, 1900 d. Oct 30, 1933 m. Marie Meers
(f). Margaret Lee June 4, 1902 m. 1st. Wesley Richardson, m. 2nd Victor Mandotte
(g). Adolphus Reuben Oct 3, 1904 m. Vivian Phippen Aug 15, 1925
(h). Ruth O. Nov 5, 1907 d. April 25, 1908 (said to have had beautiful red hair)
(i). Rulon S. Nov 5, 1907, twin, d. June 26, 1918  heart attack
K. Rachel Ada Oct 31, 1860 m. Thomas J. Bartlett Nov 17, 1878 Lavonia GA, b. July 1845 Stewart Co. GA d. 1887 Milledgeville GA.
L. Laura Anna Oct 24, 1872 m. William Dolphus Speer
   (3). William Aug 12, 1818   never married
   (4). John Oct 18, 1821 near Due West, Abbeville Co. SC, d. Mar 14, 1889, married Martha Armstrong. Both were members of Barkers Creek Baptist Church.
children
A. William Jasper Shirley July 24, 1849 Anderson Co. SC died Dec 24, 1927 Tupelo, Lee Co. MS. He married Jimmie Ann Gambrell Mar 6, 1872 Guntown Lee Co. Mississippi, born  Oct 28, 1850 AL, d.  Sept 6, 1926 Guntown Lee Co. MS.
children
(a). Nina Pearl  May 28, 1877 d. May 1947 m. Bonnie L. Bryson
(b). Monroe Presley Jan 4, 1880 d. Nov 15, 1943 m. Nettie Bryson
(c). Susannah Elinor Sept 18, 1882 m. Luther Pettus
(d). Annie Laurie May 5, 1885 d. 1918 m. Dr. Archie Stokes in 1915
(e). John Burress June 7, 1888 m. 1st  Lula Caudle Oct 22, 1911, b. 1888 in Madison County TN d.1919 of the Avian flu epidemic, m. 2nd Sadie Maxey Aug 7, 1921.
(f). Aurie Carroll July 13, 1891 m. Jewel Bedford Aug 31, 1923
(g). Larkin Gambrell April 8, 1894 m. Isabel Spain June 21, 1924
B. James Nathaniel May 15, 1852 appears to have remained in the Honea Path SC area
children:
(a). John Milton Sept 5, 1877 d. July 18, 1879
(b). Gertrude Dec 1, 1878 d. July 13, 1879
(c). Ida Koratine Feb 16, 1880 d. Nov 16, 1959 spinster
(d). Mattie Varena July 23, 1881 m. Oliver Earl Gassaway
(e). Hoyt Bryson Mar 12, 1884 m. Nellie E. Wilson Feb 12, 1911
(f). Clara Lois June 21, 1884 m. James Andrew Robinson Feb 18, 1902
(g). Emma Ann Eliz. Nov 16, 1885 m. Thomas Richard Jones Feb 5, 1905
(h). Ersula Jan 26, 1888 d. Mar 25, 1888
(i). Sally Leora B. Dec 2, 1889 d. Jan 11, 1946 m. John Elmer Branyon Sept 18, 1910
(j). Dr. James Bartley July 31, 1891 m. Vera Lucinda Spoone Apr 30, 1917
(k). Sloan Bryan June 25, 1896 m. Ruby Tate Spoone July 8, 1918
(l). Esther Lucile Oct 23, 1898 m. Howard B. Mitchell Dec 26, 1918
(m). Thomas Aurie May 25, 1901 m. Genevieve Sharpe Mar 26, 1922
(n). infant son July 1, 1905 d. same day
C. Addison Butler Sept 2, 1854  d. June 21, 1927 m. 1st. Emma Williams, m. 2nd Lucinda Gassaway (appears in 1900 census of Anderson Co. SC)
D. Hugh Presley born and died in 1856
E. Tillison Lafayette Sept 26, 1860 near Honea Path SC d. Jan 24, 1952, buried Barkers Creek Abbeville Co. Cemetery SC. (settled in Bradenton, Manatee Co. Florida nr. Sarasota, returning to Honea Path about 1927). m. 1st Martha Adaline Robinson Oct 27, 1888. She was born Dec 4, 1860 Abbeville Co. SC d. Jan 10, 1893 Boardman Florida. She was the daughter of Hugh and Mary Jane Callaham Robinson, m. 2nd Lillian Kay in 1894. She was born Dec 7, 1870 Belton SC d. Nov 1926. She was the daughter of Lemuel Williamson and Harriet E. (Campbell) Kay.
children:
(a). Helen Irene Aug 18, 1889 Honea Path SC d. Tampa FL,  m. 1st. Fred Milligan, 2nd Elijah Foster
(b). Frank Truman April 2, 1891 FL d and buried Clearwater FL
(c). Martha Mattie Robinson Nov 12, 1892 m. Idell Redding Alexander Sept 23, 1913
(d). Myrtle Feb 2, 1895 Barto FL.  m. P. K. Stevenson
(e). Dewey Sept 2, 1898 Bradenton FL d. in the Navy
(f). Manilla Sept 2, 1898 Bradenton FL, twin, d. Nov 1898
(g). William Jennings Bryon April 24, 1902 m. Eloise Sheppard
(h). Russell Lafayett April 10, 1902 d.  unmarried
(i). John Jasper April 8, 1906 unmarried, lived FL
(j). James Malcom Dec 1. 1911 m. Isabell ___
F. Emmett Calhoun Shirley Aug 29, 1866 Anderson Co. SC.,  died 1949 Bowers, Hart Co. GA. He married Lauvenia Naomi Milford Dec 23, 1886 Antreville, Abbeville Co. SC. She was the daughter of George William and Nancy (Branyon) Milford (cousins). They came to Lee Co. about 1904. He was a Baptist minister who walked most of the time to visit his members, his relatiaves and the ill. He had a congenial personality, excellent memory and loved his relatives. He knew most of them. They lived for years in Guntown. Mississippi near his great uncle, Mastin Shirley. In his declining years he returned to Bowersville Georgia where he and his wife died and are buried.
children   (first 7 children born Antreville SC, the last 4 born in Guntown, Lee Co. MS)
(a). John William Apr 21, 1889 m. Ercell Reese
info from Dan and Terri Shirley:
John William Shirley  was born in Mississippi . He stayed in Tupelo all his life.  His profession was in the postal service.  It was somewhat prestigious as he made around $75 a week during the depression.  He had five children----- Ruth, Milward (called Mickey and died when he was seven), John William II (my father  D.O.B. Nov. 27, 1921), Van, and Rachel.  My grandpa, Van, and Rachel died in April, 1936 during the horrendous tornado that swept northeast MS and parts of Georgia. There is a book out and available in the library near Tupelo that describes the tornado's destruction and the deaths and relocations that the tornado caused.  My grandma died as well.  Her name was Ercelle.
(b). Mary Naomi Aug 7, 1891 m. 1st Clyde Bruton, m. 2nd John Elmer Branyon
(c). Martha Alkaza Jan 10, 1894  d. Feb 5, 1899
(d). George Butler June 18, 1893 d. June 21, 1896
(e). Ersula Eliz. May 18, 1897 m. Charles Burress
(f). Annie Pearl June 1900, m. Roscoe Plank
(g). Joseph Calhoun Mar 4, 1903 m. Louise Cromer
(h). Delia Aug 8, 1905 died young
(i). Leila Kathryn Nov 11, 1907 m. James Calhoun Wilson, Jr.
(j) Horace Milford May 24, 1909 m. Betty Reno
(k). Dora Bell Oct 1912 m. Clyde E. Regan
G. Madison Monroe Aug 29, 1868 near Honea Path SC, d. Sept 4, 1946 Bradenton FL., m. Elizabeth  (Bessie) Kay who was born May 5, 1873 Belton SC d. Dec 23, 1936. She was the daughter of Lemuel and Harriet Kay.
children:
(a). Louise Jan 20, 1896 SC m. Felix E. Early
(b). Fred Cordell June 18, 1901 d. June 28, 1962 m. Helen Baker May 10, 1924
(c). Gladys Aug 12, 1903 d. Aug 18, 1904
(d). Eleanor July 26, 1905 m. Frank Murch April 16, 1938
(e). Charles Monroe Jan 7, 1908 d. April 25, 1923
(f). Lillian Jan 21, 1911 d. June 25, 1912
(g). Elizabeth Kay Oct 22, 1913 m. A. C. Courtney Jr.
H. Aurie Walter C. Nov 29, 1870 Honea Path SC d. Aug 30, 1958 Jacksonville FL
children:
(a). Katherine 1910 d. age 4 years
(b). Richey 1912 m. Lillian Godwin
I.  Nancy Ann Eliz. Delilah Mar 24, 1873, m. James Shaw
   (5). Elizabeth Louvinia Naomi    m. Reuben Branyon
   (6). Frank 1825  died   5 years of age
   (7). George Sept 29, 1827 Donaldsville, Abbeville Co. SC, died Oct 27, 1889, married Elizabeth Elgin Aug 2, 1855. She was born Mar 25, 1835 Abbeville Co. SC, died Dec 3, 1915, daughter of Hezekiah and Nancy Webb Elgin. (Nancy was the daughter of John and Eliz. Webb).
Children:
A. Monroe Jefferson May 6, 1856, died July 24, 1858
B. Nancy Alcanza Nov 27, 1858, m. James Carrol Shirley Sept 20, 1883
C. Emmer Luani Oct 22, 1861, died June 23, 1911, spinster
D. Cora Jan Aug 29, 1866, died June 19, 1952, spinster
E. Alice Meceine Dec 19, 1868, m. Jasper Newton Robinson Oct 1, 1890
F. Benjamin Nathaniel July 12, 1871, died Oct 17, 1952, batchelor
G. Hezekiah Butler Oct 23, 1874, died Jan 23, 1875
H. Ethel Victoria Sept 1, 1877, died July 16, 1962, spinister
   (8). James W.  1829, Donaldsville, Abbeville Co. SC, died Feb 14, 1864, buried in grave #462 of a Military Cemetery Rock Island, Illinois; shot while trying to escape from prison hospital, Rock Island Illinois, during Civil War. Married Martha Drucilla Wright Feb 9, 1854. She was born Aug 8, 1836 Anderson Co. SC, died Dec 2, 1881 and is buried Barkers Creek Cem. She was the daughter of Robert Norris and Eliz. Grubbs Wright.
In 1857 the family lived in Franklin Co. GA. On Feb 13, 1860, James W. Shirley was appointed guardian of Nancy Alkansa Branyon, his niece, daughter of Eliz. Luvinia Naomi Shirley Branyon
Children:
A. James Lawrence Alonzo Mar 15, 1855, died Dec 8, 1921, m. Nina Victoria Tribble who was born Dec 21, 1870, died Aug 1936, both buried Barkers Creek Cem.
Children:
(a). Carrie Lucia Oct 24, 1891, died Feb 1941, m. J. Christie Wright, buried Barkers Creek Cemetery.
(b). William Tribble April 4, 1904, died July 27, 1964, batchelor
(c). Cena Evelyn Feb 4, 1908. spinster
(d). Virginia June 1, 1911, m. Mr. Norris
(e). Charles Fletcher Dec 7, 1913, m. Catherine Shaw. Parents of 4 children.
B. Caroline (Cora) W. Dec 11, 1856, died June 2, 1885, m. James R. Walker Dec 21, 1876. He died June 16, 1879.
C. Richard Nathaniel Nov 5, 1858, died Nov 28, 1889, m. Florence Glycelpha Grubbs Dec 16, 1880
Children: born Abbeville Co. SC
(a). William Sylvester June 12, 1882, m. Wallie Martin born 1890, dau. of William Frank and Evie T. Strickland Martin. Parents of 4 children.
(b). Lawrence Feb 18, 1884, m. 1st Mamie Wright born Oct 6, 1890 SC, died Nov 14, 1946. He m. 2nd Nettie Williamson.
(c). Ross Nov 29, 1885, m. Ida Shaw. Parents of 2 children.
(d). Alma Eliz. April 1888, spinster of Belton
D. William Robert Dec 2, 1862, died Nov 16, 1887, unmarried
   (9). Mary Ann 1831   Married 1st Reuben Branyon (spouse of her sister),  married   2nd Sanford V. Milford.
  (10).Lethe Massena  Oct 1834 Donalds, Abbeville Co. SC, died May 21, 1921, m 1st. Andrew H. Calaham, son of David and Sarah Jones Callaham. She m. 2nd Joshua Milford, son of George and Eleanor Milford.
Child
A. Nancy Ellen Victoria Milford Nov 24, 1866, died Oct 27, 1947, m. Rev. Benjamin Perry Mitchell born July 6, 1865, died April 16, 1947.
  (11). Nancy Irene Feb 8, 1836   died May 14, 1857
  (12). Amaziah Nathaniel Aug 1838 Donalds, Abbeville Co. SC, died Nov 7, 1888 GA, m. Martinah (Tiny) Eliz. Bond Feb 28, 1871 Franklin Co. Ga. She was born Mar 22, 1853, died May 31, 1926, daughter of Joseph Bond. Both are buried in Double Branch Church Cemetery, Franklin Co. GA. He was a successful farmer and lived in Warm Springs GA.
Children:
A. Luther Nov 30, 1871 Bowersville, GA, died July 24, 1940, m. Lillie Jackson Jan 9, 1896
children born in Greenville Co. SC (3 sons died of heart attacks)
(a). Leo 1897  d. July 23, 1945
(b). Claude ca. 1900, d. Sept 23, 1949
(c). Truman 1904 d. Feb 26, 1951
(d). James
(e). Dwight

B. Joseph Nathaniel June 12, 1874  d. Aug 25, 1932, m. Rosabell Adams Feb 1896
Children:
(a). Duard
(b). Ralph
(c). Ruby  married M. Robert Poole
(d). Wylanne  m. ____ Thomas
(e). Amalee
(f). Joe Bell
(g). William (Bill)
(h). June m. ____ Whitehead.
C. George Arthur Oct 28, 1876 Bowersville, Hart Co. GA, d. Jan 30, 1953, m. Ethel Isabel Milford Nov 22, 1899. She was born Aug 5, 1882 Abbeville Co. SC, d. Dec 18, 1952 daughter of George Washington and Nancy Alcanza (Branyon) Milford.
children (born Bowersville, Hart Co. GA)
(a). George Loy Mar 2, 1902. d. June 25, 1950, m. Margaret Payne Dec 25, 1930
(b). Amaziah Milford Dec 5, 1904, m. 1st. Mary Louise Hughing May 24, 1922, 2nd Effie Eugenia Brown Aug 16, 1942.
(c). Lena Pearl
(d). Howard Wilmer Sept 29, 1909, m. Kate Burnette
(e). Arthur Ray Feb 28, 1913, m. Mary Virginia McKay
(f). Ned Wilson Sept 27, 1915, d. Dec 16, 1959
(g). Charles Morton Feb 15, 1918, m. Helen Feltcher
(h). George Arthur, Jr. May 5, 1922, m. Sarah Hall
(i). Nancy Elizabeth Jan 10, 1925, m. Richard Thomas
D. Nancy Bertha Aug 5, 1879 d. Nov 21, 1951, m. Bunyon Burnette Jan 5, 1897
children
(a). Blanche Burnette
(b). Roy Burnette
(c). Berchyl Burnette
(d). Benjamin Franklin Burnette
(e). Morris Burnette
E. Benjamin Oct 11, 1882, died Jan 1949, m. Emma Jane Jacks in July 1899, dau of George and Rebecca SHIRLEY Jacks. She was born Nov 27, 1884, d. Aug 3, 1923, (9 children). He married 2nd Bertie Eugenia King Bradley born 12/1/1886 died 11/24/69.  They had 2 children.
children
(a). Annabel Lee Shirley 1900-1963 Clyde Lee Parker 1893-1952   3 children
(b). Madge Rebecca Shirley 1901-1993 James Marvin Allison 1904-1969   2 children
(c). Lettye Irene Shirley 1904-      Frank B. Smith 1904--1970    2 children
(d). Robert Eugene Shirley-1905-1955   Dora Elizabeth Harp 1913-   4 children
(e). Marian Elizabeth Shirley 1908-2000   John Hoyt Bradley 1905-1975   2 children
(f). Bessie Clara Shirley 1911-1999   Walter L. Howard 1901-1971  1 adopted child*
(g). Ben Dixie Shirley 1916-  1st marriage Lester Ortho Meeks ? 2nd Andrew Julian Reynolds  total 4 children 2 by Lester 2 by Julian
(h).Charlie Franklin Shirley 1919-1961 Helen Cyrus 1926-   3 children
(i). Steve Benson Keaton 1922-1978 (adopted by his aunt at time of his mothers death, less than year old) m. 1st Mercedes Moreland 1919-   2 children,  2nd m. Arlene Probst, 0 children

Benjamin Alexander Shirley m. 2nd to Bertie Eugenia King Bradley
(j). Emily Ann Shirley 1925-           3 children
(k). Peggy Jean Shirley 1930-          1 child

*adopted one of Ben Dixie's children by her first marriage at time of Dixie's divorce.
F. Letitia ( Lettie)  June 23, 1887 d. Oct 8, 1977, m. Motte Keaton  Dec 21, 1910
They had one child
(a). Letty Pearl Keaton Sept 8, 1913, married Marshall Burton.

2. Letitia 1789  died Feb 2, 1842   Married Weldon Pearman Dec 15, 1806
3. James 1791
4. Armand Aug 7, 1792  died Jan 5, 1874 buried First Westminister Baptist Church cemetery, Oconee, South Carolina. Married 1st Robert Kay Oct 9, 1809 and they were the parents of 9 children, married 2nd Jesse Rutledge Oct 19, 1838
children:
(1). Nancy KAY1810 m. 1st. Asa Clinkscales, 2nd John McGee
(2). William B. KAY 1812 d. young
(3). Silas Wesley 1814 KAY m. Maranda Brownlee Smith Sept 27, 1838
(4). Elizabeth July 18, 1815 KAY m. John Wilson Hall
(5). James Doran KAY d. Jan 10, 1886 m. Elizabeth King
(6) Benjamin Dozier KAY April 22, 1820 d. Dec 19, 1886 m. Elizabeth Caldwell Speer Dec 23, 1847, born Jan 16, 1809 d. Aug 12, 1870, he m. 2nd Malinda Sullivan Kilgore
(7). Grace KAY July 19, 1825 m. N.H. Ercherger Oct 9, 1842
(8). John Robert KAY June 4, 1828 m. Lucinda Pickerell
(9). Catherine KAY 1830 d. Oct 8, 1906 m. Rev Wade Fletcher Smith
5. Julaney Apr 17, 1794  died Dec 2, 1833  Married James W. Richey July 9, 1812, son of James and Elizabeth Dunn Richey, Jr. They were the parents of  10 children
6. Letizier Irene Mar 2, 1797  Married John Wilson and they were the parents of 10 children
7. John Riley Mar 25, 1798  died June 14, 1873 Fulton Co. Georgia  Married 1st Acemith Kay Nov 30, 1817 and they had 7 children. She was the daughter of John and Rosannah Kay. He married 2nd Mary Eliz. Kay before 1850.  She was born Jan 12, 1806 SC and died July 18, 1887. She was the daughter of Rev. William and Catherine Trussell Kay (widow of Asa Kay).  John and Mary lived in Franklin Co. GA and went to Fulton Co. GA after 1852.  He was mentioned as out of state with wife, Polly, in the Trussell estate of March 29, 1854.
children:
   (1). Reuben N. Aug 28, 1820  Abbeville SC d. ?1863 Jackson Co. GA, m. Isabella _______
   Children
  A. Mary Jane 1842
  B. Sena Ann 1847
   (2). Grace Essie  1821 Abbeville Co. SC
   (3). Benjamin T.  Aug 23, 1826, died Mar 1891, m. Mary Ann Brock in 1845. She was born Feb 11, 1826 Abbeville Co. SC. and died May 1898 in Franklin Co. GA.
Children
A. Messena (Missouri) Cordelia Nov 10, 1846, m. Oct 12, 1865 to Levi Branson Fisher
B. Lucinda E. May 26, 1848, m. Benj. M. Isobell Sept  14, 1875
C. Mary Elvira Aug 2, 1851 m. John T. Branyon Oct 17, 1879
D. Thurza Ann Feb 28, 1854 m. Jasper W. Shirley Oct 26, 1873
E. Lawrence Preston  May 23, 1856, died July 30, 1947, m. Georgia A. Pace in 1862. They settled in Franklin Co. GA
child:
(a). W. E. (female) Jan 1880
F. Florence Electa May 15, 1868, m. John D. Potts
   (4). John Kay C. Sept 19, 1831 Abbeville Co. SC d. Milton Co. GA, m. Acemith McDade
   (5). Rosannah Elizabeth July 4,1834 Abbeville Co. SC d. Feb 21, 1907 Clarkton GA,  m. Francis M. Branyon
   (6). Thurza Ann May 29, 1837  m. George W. Thompson
   (7). Joel Milton  Mar 31, 1839 died 1857 Yell Co. Arkansas
   (8). James A.  Dec 5, 1843 died May 19, 1919 Milton Co. Georgia, m. Martha ___
   (9). Mary Catherine  Feb 12, 1846 Abbeville Co. SC d. Jan 10, 1915 Milton Co. GA, m. John Franklin Shirley (son of Benjamin 1811 who is son of John and Eliz Fields branch #5)
  (10). Riley M. Feb 24, 1849  Abbeville Co. SC,  m. Dicy Rebecca Douglas Sept 22, 1847 GA, died Dec 29, 1925. They were married May 18, 1867.
Children:
A. Mary E  b. Aug. 12,1868
B. Russell M  b. Oct 27,1870 d Aug 6, 1953 m. Lula Willie Landrum Jan 2, 1894
C. John Charles  b. Feb 24, 1873
D. Fannie Mae  b July 26, 1875
E. Joseph Rodgers b July 5,1878 d April 1904 (appears in 1900 census Fulton Co GA. as J. Rodgers)
F. William Clifford  b. Dec 12, 1880 d Mar. 9, 1919 Married Ella Parks b unknown d 1931 on April 24, 1905 in GA
children:
(a). Mary Dicie  b Dec 28, 1909 Atlanta Fulton county d Dec 1987  Philadelphia PA. Married Van Arnold Fuller on July  11, 1936  Fulton Co. GA.  Mary listed her place of Rrsidence as East Pt. Georgia she also lists both parents W C Shirley & Ella Shirley as decd.
(b). Eugene F. b 1910 Atlanta GA Fulton county
(c. Stephen Wilbur  b May 20, 1912
(d). Marie  b ? d ? ca buried in Jonesboro GA m Mr. David E Warner
(e). Annie Sue  b 1916 d 1921 cause of death burned as her  dress caught fire at home in kitchen

Note: In a note in bible records of Stephen W. Shirley he states...  We called daddy Tee Wee !
G. Benjamin Franklin Shirley b Nov 25, 1883
H. Walter Sterling Shirley b Mar 31, 1886
I. Annie Pauline Shirley b June 16, 1891
NOTE: Update for (10). Riley M. Feb 24, 1849  Abbeville Co. SC,  m. Dicy Rebecca Douglas
from Marie June 18, 2007
I have a copy of the loose pages in the old Bible of Dicy Rebecca Douglass's parents with info about their marriage and children of Riley Shirley and Dicy Douglass. If anyone wants to contact me they may email me at Dicy430@aol.com

Per records at Westview Cemetery 1680 Westview Dr Atlanta Ga on Phone Conservation on June 18th 2007  confirmed to me Marie Hignett that Dicy Rebecca Douglass Wife of Riley Mastin Shirley is buried in Section 7 Lot 391 Grave 2 buried 12-30-1925 (no marker)
R. M. Shirley (Riley Mastin Shirley) Section 7 Lot 391 Grave 1 buried 08/01/1912(no marker) their son Joseph Rodgers is also buried at Westview
J Rodger Shirley Section 7 Lot 396 Grave 3 buried 04/17/1904 Next to J Rodger shirley is a Lizzy Shirley ( a quick guess would be she is his wife)
  (11). Andrew Pinkney May 31, 1852 Abbeville Co. SC d. Dec 20, 1943 GA, m.  Rebecca E. Kelly Dec 24, 1874

8. Mastin 1800 Abbeville Co. SC m.  Rachel McAdam. She was born Nov 22, 1801 Abbeville Co. SC, daughter of John McAdams. He may have married again after Rachel's death. If so, her name must have also been Rachel. He is said to have moved to Guntown, Lee Co. MS
children:
   (1). Benjamin Hershel 1823 Abbeville, Co. SC,  m. Lucinda Brock Dec 22, 1846
children
A. Benjamin
B. Elbert L. 1851 Abbeville Co. SC, m. Margaret Hughes Oct 13, 1870 Hart Co. GA. (She was born Mar 8, 1853, daughter of Hezekiah and Sarah Delilah (Mitchell) Hughes). They went to Texas with the Hughes family in 1874 and settled on a farm in Smith Co. TX.
C. Jordon 1856
D. William D. 1863 GA
   (2). Elizabeth F. 1825
   (3). Sarah C. 1827
   (4). John Franklin 1829
   (5). Margaret J.  1830   Married Abner Branyon. They settled in Guntown, Mississippi
   (6). Mary Ann 1832
   (7). Nancy Catherine 1834
   (8). Nathaniel Newton 1836
   (9). Arminda Letitia  Feb 3, 1840  died Apr 14, 1914  Married 1st Armstrong Billingsby, married 2nd Welden Chesley Pearman Jan 24, 1868
  (10). George W.  1842
  (11). William F. 1844
  (12). Marianna J. 1845 m. Weldon Pearman Armstrong
  (13. James Watson April 1, 1847 Abbeville Co. SC, d. April 16, 1920 Ft. Worth, Tarrant Co. TX, m. Mourning Christobel Darter. She was born June 19, 1855 Randolph Co. AL, d. Jan 9, 1930 Tarrant Co. TX.
children   (born Roanoke, Denton Co. TX or Fort Worth, Texas)
A. Emma Christobel Nov 9, 1877 d. May 21, 1880
B. Valira Lottie Sept 5, 1880 d. May 10, 1906 unmarried
C. Fred  July 22,  1882 Denton Co. TX d. Sept 19, 1958 Denton Co. TX, m. Frankie Burke Nov 23, 1912
children
(a). Fred B. m. Esther Seid
(b). Marvin m. Ruby Scott
D. Etta Dec 1884, d. June 19, 1939 spinster
E. James Bob June 20, 1886 d. Jan 3, 1951, m. Ruth Wise Oct 28, 1920
F. Mark June 7, 1888 m. Grace Alexander Feb 8, 1922. (12 children)
G. Mittie Bell June 26, 1890, m. Lorenzo Dow Morgan Aug 9, 1910 (1 son)
H. Violet Dec 1892, m. Jimmie Graham Nov 9, 1919
9. Rapady Rhoda  1802 Abbeville Co. SC, m.  James Cullens, a wheel-wright. He was born 1798 SC, son of James Cullens.
children
(1). James M. Cullens 1825
(2). Chloe Cullens 1833
(3). Nathaniel Cullens 1840
(4). Jane Cullens 1842
(5). Rosanna Cullens 1844
(6). Catherine Cullens 1848

Shirley Association International Website:
http://www.shirleyassociation.com/NewShirleySite/index2.html
note from the website by the Association President:
NOTE: From Betty Shirley:  I have reviewed the 37 marker test for Marion Earl who is the brother of Fannie. They are Shirleys!
Any information that could help with the genealogy of this family would be greatly appreciated. You may email Fannie direct. rlinder@stny.rr.com

OUR ALEXANDER AND GAINES ANCESTORS AND DESCENDENTS* * *

Although in most states in slavery Blacks were not permitted to marry, the state of Georgia obviously allowed it for there are records of marriages very early even in the 1800s.

Marriages In Franklin County, Georgia prior to 1865

ALEXANDERS in FranklinCounty, GA:

ALEXANDER, Elizabeth 31 DEC 1807 Levi BANKS
ALEXANDER, Isaac 24 DEC 1807 Susannah THOMAS
ALEXANDER, Murphy 27 JUL 1813 Susannah COLEMAN
ALEXANDER, John P. 28 FEB 1828 Elizabeth TATE
ALEXANDER, James S. 13 SEP 1829 Elizabeth HUMPHRIES
ALEXANDER, Samuel 12 JAN 1832 Matilda NEAL
ALEXANDER, John M. 14 FEB 1844 Sarah GUNNELS
ALEXANDER, Rachael Ann  4 SEP 1848 Richard C HUNT
ALEXANDER, William P. 11 OCT 1854 Louisa E. SEWELL
ALEXANDER, Harriet C. 25 NOV 1856 Joseph W. CARTLEDGE
ALEXANDER, T. 15 DEC 1859 James L. CARSON

1850 CENSUS
CENSUS YR: 1850 STATE or TERRITORY: GA COUNTY: Elbert DIVISION

ALEXANDERS in Elbert County, GA:

Alexander M born in 1755 Female
Alexander J B born in 1794 Male Farmer GA
Alexander C born in 1808 Female GA X
Alexander W A born in 1810 Female SC
Alexander W B born in 1815 Male Farmer GA
Alexander G J born in 1826 Male Stewart GA X
Alexander W W born in 1831 Male Farmer GA X
Alexander L J born in 1832 Female GA X
 Alexander J A born in 1833 Male Farmer GA X
Alexander L A born in 1836 Male GA
Alexander J H born in 1838 Male GA
Alexander N T born in 1840 Male GA
Alexander F C born in 1842 Male GA
Alexander M E born in 1844 Female GA
Alexander F born in 1844 Female
Alexander M W born in 1847 Male GA

GAINES (GAINS) in Elbert County, GA

Gains S born 1780 Female  Mother
Gains R T born in 1781 69 Male Farmer  Father
Gains F born in 1805 Male Merchant  Son
Gains D born in 1813 Female Daughter
Gains J born in 1836 Male Grandson
Gains F Male born in 1838 Male Grandson
Gains L Born in 1841 Male Grandson
Gains M born in 1843 Female Granddaughter
Gains S born in 1846 Female Granddaughter

1870 CENSUS
CENSUS YR: 1870 STATE or TERRITORY: GA COUNTY: Elbert DIVISION:
ELBERTCOUNTY:

ALEXANDERS in Elbert County, GA:

Tobe Alexander b. 1790 in SC
Joanna Alexander b. 1791
Ruben Alexander b. 1820
Jack Alexander b. 1826
Mat Alexander b. 1828
Milly Alexander b. 1833
Dave Alexander b. 1836
Lee Alexander b. 1839
Catherine Alexander b.1840

GAINES:

Charles Gaines b. 1810
George Gaines b. 1816e
Gabriel Gaines b. 1838
James Gaines b. 1838
Johnes Gaines b. 1842
Lewis Gaines b. 1843
Lindsy Gaines b. 1843
John Gaines b. 1847
Gaines Richard b.1850 M Laborer
Henry Gaines b. 1852
John Gaines b. 1854 

HARTCOUNTY:

ALEXANDERS:

Lucinda Alexander b. 1817
Peter Alexander b. 1840
Norris Alexander b. 1841 in SC

GAINES in Elbert County, GA:

Jackson Gaines b. 1808 in VA
Rubin Gaines b. 1817
Richard Gaines b. 1820
Rabun Gaines b. 1820
Benjamin Gaines b. 1826
Asa Gaines b. 1832
Henry Gaines b. 1842

FRANKLINCOUNTY:

ALEXANDERS in FranklinCounty, GA:

Clarisy Alexander b. 1827
Henry Alexander b. 1820
Hugh Alexander b. 1836 in SC

1880 CENSUS

ALEXANDERS IN HARTCOUNTY

Census Place: Pike, Elbert, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254145  National Archives Film T9-0145     Page 409B

 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

Joanna ALEXANDER Self Female Divorced BLACK b. 1845 GA
 Caroline ALEXANDER Dau Female  BLACK b. 1866 GA
 Sam ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1868 GA
 Mary ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1870 GA
   William ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1872 GA
   Dinah ALEXANDER Other Female  BLACK b. 1809 GA

    Census Place: Pike, Elbert, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254145  National Archives Film T9-0145     Page 411B
 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

Henry ALEXANDER Self (Husband)M Male MULATTO b. 1852 GA
Clider ALEXANDER Wife Female M BLACK b. 1862 GA
 Lucy ALEXANDER Other Female  BLACK b. 1805 GA (grandmother)
   Tom ALEXANDER Other Male W BLACK b. 1873 GA
Cathrine ALEXANDER Other Female W BLACK 1830 GA (mother)
 William ALEXANDER Other Male S BLACK b. 1861 GA

             Census Place: District 212, Franklin, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254147  National Archives Film T9-0147     Page 490B
 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

Peter VORTERS Self (Husband) Male M BLACK b. 1852 GA
Marth VORTERS Wife Female M BLACK b. 1857 GA
 Robert W. VORTERS Son Male S BLACK b. 1872 GA
   John H. VORTERS Son Male S BLACK b. 1875 GA
   Alonzo VORTERS Son Male S BLACK b. 1878 GA
   Clary ALEXANDER Mother Female Widow BLACK b. 1830 GA
Rezannah ADAMS Other Female Widow WHITE b. 1836 SC
 Julie ADAMS Other Female S WHITE b. 1856 GA
   Wilson M. ADAMS Other Male S WHITE b. 1863 GA
 D. B. LEDBETTER Other Male S WHITE b. 1851 GA

  Census Place: Gunnels, Franklin, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254147  National Archives Film T9-0147     Page 528C
 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

Gus ALEXANDER Self (Husband) Male M BLACK b. 1843 GA
 Mary ALEXANDER Wife Female M BLACK b. 1848 GA
 John ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1869 GA
   Perry ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1874 GA
   Charles ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1877 GA
   Frances ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1879 GA
   Rhoda ALEXANDER Mother F Widow BLACK b. 1825 GA

Census Place: Alfords,Hart, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254151  National Archives Film T9-0151     Page 577C
 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

Peter ALEXANDER Self  (Husband) Male M BLACK b. 1841 GA
 Francis ALEXANDER Wife Female M BLACK b. 1850 GA
 James ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1868 GA
 Jackson ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1871 GA
 Lewis ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1872 GA
 Doctor ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1873 GA
 Harriet ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1874 GA
Moriah ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1876 GA
Essie ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1879 GA
Moriah ALEXANDER Mother F Widow BLACK b. 1808 GA

  Census Place: Town, Hart, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254151  National Archives Film T9-0151     Page 589D
 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

Peter ADAMS Self (Husband) Male M BLACK b. 1826 GA
 Mary ADAMS Wife Female M BLACK b. 1830 GA
 Lindsey ADAMS Son M S BLACK b. 1860 GA
 Tidy ADAMS Dau F S BLACK b. 1862 GA
 Amanda ADAMS Dau F S BLACK b. 1866 GA
Ben HUDSON FatherL M W BLACK b. 1805 GA
   Lucy ALEXANDER Sister-in-Law F S BLACK b. 1820 GA

Census Place: Ruckersville, Elbert, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254145  National Archives Film T9-0145     Page 484A
 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

Rubin ALEXANDER Self (Husband) Male M BLACK b. 1824 GA
 Nancy ALEXANDER Wife Female M BLACK b. 1832 GA
 Virginia ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1865 GA
Lucindy ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1870 GA
   Emory ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1869 GA
 Eliza ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1875 GA
   Lucy ALEXANDER Mother Female Widow BLACK b.1790 VA
[Lucy ALEXANDER may be Mother of Rubin, Jackson, Madison and Harkness and Grandmother of William Harkness.
She would, therefore, be Nobie'S GREAT-GREAT-GRANDMOTHER.  And Rubin, Jackson and Madison would be the brothers of Harkness ALEXANDER.
Many same names run through these particular families:  Rubin, Lucy, Lucinda, Lucindy, William, James, Adaline,Adoline, "Liny" - nickname for Adaline?, Fannie.  In fact, William Harkness, son of Harkness, names at least five of his children seemingly for these ancestors:  Rubin, James, Fannie, William H., and Lucille]

Census Place: Eliam,Elbert, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254145  National Archives Film T9-0145     Page 441B
 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

Jackson ALEXANDER Self (Husband)Male M BLACK b. 1827 GA
 Betsy ALEXANDER Wife Female M BLACK b. 1831 GA
Sandford ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1868 GA
 Lucinda ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1862 GA
Lulah ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1864 GA
 Fannie ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1869 GA
 John ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1872 GA
   Lizzie ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1874 GA
   Georgia ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. b. 1876 GA

Census Place: Eliam,Elbert, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254145  National Archives Film T9-0145     Page 446D
 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

Madison ALEXANDER Self (Husband) Male M BLACK b. 1827 GA
Adaline S. ALEXANDER Wife Female M BLACK b. 1839 GA
 Bedford S. ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1863 GA
 James H. ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1865 GA
 Lorenzo D. ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1866 GA
 Flora E. ALEXANDER Sister Female S BLACK b. 1868 GA
 Rosa D. ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1869 GA
 John A. ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1873 GA
   William H. ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1875 GA
   Dolly ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK 9M GA

Census Place: Moss, Elbert, Georgia
 Source: FHL Film 1254145  National Archives Film T9-0145     Page 479C
 Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace

[Nobie GAINES BARNES's Great-grandfather]
(William) Harkness ALEXANDER Self (Husband) Male M BLACK b. 1829 GA
 Judy ALEXANDER Wife Female M BLACK b. 1836 GA
The 1910 Census records that Hark and Judy ALEXANDER had 18 children born.
How many survived birth or childhood is not known.
children:

Sarah ALEXANDER, b.1858 GA
    William Harkness ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1862 GA [Nobie's grandfather]
Liny ALEXANDER Dau Female S BLACK b. 1864 GA
Dunsten ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1870 GA
   Larkin ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1872 GA
   Joseph ALEXANDER Son Male S BLACK b. 1875 GA

It is thought that there are other married children who cannot be identified at present.

"They brought us in in chains; God brought us out in Spirit."

THE DIRECT HERITAGE OF MOTHER AND GRANDMOTHER NOBIE (ALEXANDER GAINES) BARNES

In 2005, The National Geographic Society, IBM, geneticist Spencer Wells, and the Waitt Family Foundation launched the Genographic Project, a five-year effort to understand the human journey—where humans came from and how we got to where we live today. This unprecedented effort will map humanity's genetic journey through the ages.

The fossil record fixes human origins in Africa, but little is known about the great journey that took Homo sapiens to the far reaches of the Earth. How did we, each of us, end up where we are? Why do we appear in such a wide array of different colors and features?

Mitochondrial Eve

Mitochondrial DNA (MtDNA) is that which is passed down from mother to daughter through all the generations. MtDNA is only passed through the females.

All humans living today descend from a woman nicknamed "Mitochondrial Eve". This unknown woman probably lived in Africa  more than 144,000 years ago (1,440 centuries, 5,760 generations+ ago). She became an ancestor of all modern humans. She wasn't the only human female in her generation -- some scientists think that she belonged to a human population of about 2,000 people. The other women of her time certainly left daughters and granddaughters, but Mitochondrial Eve was the only woman in her generation whose descendants in the female line are still living today, the L line. At some point, the descendants of all her contemporaries left only sons, so that their female lines became extinct.  Many races and lines were spawned from this original L line and spread throughout the world.  There are 37 different known branches from the same "Eve" tree thus far.  If those living today have mitochondrial DNA that is L1 and L2,  they are direct descendents of "Mitochondrial Eve".

Part of the L haplogroup, which has been concretely characterized as representing the original human mitochondrial lineage, haplogroup L2 is found in Africa. This haplogroup dates to approximately 70,000 years [700 centuries] ago, and is detected in highest frequency in north, west, and central Africa.

In August of 2005, Fannie Ruth, one of Nobie’s daughters, decided to take part in the National Geographic genographic project to help them discover where all the various races came from.  Not knowing fully what the project would amount to, she sent in her DNA sample and was absolutely amazed, upon receiving the results, to discover that all of the females in Nobie’s line before her and all her daughters and their daughters and their daughters, etc. – each mother passing along to her daughter(s) -  are members of the haplogroup L2, meaning that they are among the most direct and closest descendants of Mitochondrial Eve!!

For all female daughters of Nobie Barnes (Vernelle, Dorothy, Fannie, Barbara and Juanita) and their daughters (Gayle, Donna Ann, Jeanine, LaVerne, Phyllis, Joy, Teri, Francine, Cheryl, Jackie) and their daughters and their daughters, and every daughter through generations thereafter, this means the following:

All of us family females, throughout the generations since "Mitochondrial Eve", have the same mtDNA. MtDNA never changes...passed along from the first mother, whoever that was, down to the present day – whether that first mother was born 10,000 years ago or 20,000 years ago, etc.  Our mtDNA results, identified through Fannie Ruth’s DNA by the Genographic project, identify our female line as members of haplogroup L2.

Haplogroup L2 originated 60,000 to 100,000 years ago from descendents of the L1 line.  This distinctly African haplogroup included those peoples who never left the continent.  The subclade L2a is the most common in Africa, and also reflects the most common African American lineage.

This ancient line of descent is directly from the oldest and common ancestor of all humans, “Mitochondrial Eve”.  All of us females in the Nobie Barnes genealogical line are directly from the line of "Mitochondrial Eve" .  All existing mtDNA of whatever race began with Eve and remains greatest, and subsequently the oldest, in Africa.  This strongly suggests that modern humans originated in Africa and the L1 and L2 lines are her oldest and purest daughter lines!

The amazing thing, too, about this particular DNA test, is that you get a number to accompany your DNA but you do not send in your name or tell your race. You do not tell if you are Caucasian, Black, Latino, whatever.  You just send your DNA.  It is your mtDNA that will tell who you are in the human race!  The females in our family line go all the way back to the oldest mtDNA found in the world:  we are great (over 5,700 generational great) granddaughters of “Mitochondrial Eve”!!!

All other races come from our 5,700+ generational MOTHER “Mitochondrial Eve’s” DNA!  AMAZING!  And her DNA is in the bloodstream of all Nobie’s mothers, daughters, granddaughters, great grand- daughters, great great granddaughters, greatgreatgreat grand- daughters and ever shall be in all the future daughters in this family bloodline. AMAZING.

Just think.  All the females listed here on these pages from Nobie's side are “daughters” with the blood in their veins of the oldest bloodline found on the face of this earth to date, that of “Mitochondrial Eve”.

Nobie's blood and genes are also in her only son, Marion Earl, but her mtDNA, the female DNA, is passed on through her daughters.  They, in turn, will pass the female DNA on to their daughters throughout all coming generations.  The fathers pass on the male DNA to their sons and the mothers pass on the female mtDNA to their daughters.  The sons receive the female DNA but do not pass it on.  The daughters receive the male DNA but do not pass it on.  It is believed, scientifically at present, that each passes on only to the same sex:  the mother line to daughters, the father line to sons - through the ages.

 Now back to the rest of the story:

Nobie's daughter, Fannie, also sent her DNA to the African Ancestry genetic testing laboratories to attempt to discover where our Mother's (Nobie Alexander Gaines) ancient history began.  What Fannie discovered was printed on the certificate of ancestry above and below: 

Nobie's heritage - and ours on the female side and line - begins in Senegal and is of the Mandinkan peoples, the same peoples as Alex Haley who wrote the story of the Mandinkans in the book and the movie,  "ROOTS".  His accounting tells of how the Mandinkans were sold into slavery and brought to America.  It is wonderful beyond words to be able to trace our heritage back to the Motherland of Africa, the Senegalese people AND the "Mitochondrial Eve":  the known beginning of our maternal family lineage.  Overwhelming and gratifying beyond words.

Nobie's Great-Grandfather Harkness ALEXANDER b. 1829; lived and owned his own farm in Elbert, GA
    Great-great grandmother: Judy ALEXANDER, wife of Hark ALEXANDER, b. 1835, GA
The 1910 Census records that Hark and Judy ALEXANDER had 18 children born. How many survived birth or childhood
is not known.  I would suspect that there are a number of children born before Sarah, who was born in 1858 when her father was 29 years of age and her mother was 23 years of age.

Hark and Judy ALEXANDER's children [as of the 1880 census] were:

     Sarah ALEXANDER, daughter, b. 1858 GA, died August, 1941; [Nobie's Great-aunt]
           Sarah married Nelsen OLIVER, who was b. in SC in 1854. They lived in Elbert, GA. Their children were:
                 Son, Price OLIVER, b. 1876;
                 Daughter, Misie OLIVER, b. 1877;
                 Son, Willie OLIVER, b. 1878;
                 Daughter, Adoline OLIVER, b. 1879.
It is thought that there are other children who cannot be identified at present.

    William Harkness ALEXANDER, son, b. 1862 GA [Nobie'sfutureGrandfather.  His family will be shown in detal below]  W. Harkness and his wife, Creasy, had 15 children.
The known children are:  Jean, Ervin, James, Rubin, William, Fannie,  Jessie, Thomas, Ellis, Marie (Mary), Homer, Osie, Susie, Lucille.

Liny ALEXANDER,  daughter, b. 1864 GA; married Elijah RUCKER [her second marriage]; she was widowed between 1910 and 1920.  In the 1920 US census, she was living with her widowed mother, Judy - wife of Harkness ALEXANDER.

Dunsten ALEXANDER, son, b. 1870 GA; wife Lula, b. March, 1867
             Children:

                Pearson (Pierce), son; b. February, 1892
Armond (Erman)(Ermine), son; b. October, 1893
               Otis, son; b. February, 1895
                        m. Elease (?).  Otis and Elease had six children:
                        Owen, Curtice, Murtice, Clarence, Raymond, Grover;  Pittsburgh, PA
                Mary, daughter; b. November, 1899
Myrtice, dau., b. 1901
                M. J. son, b. 1903
The 1910 Census states that eight (8) children were born to Dunsten and Lula ALEXANDER.  There is a Pierce (1890) and Erman (1892) mentioned but it is difficult to tell if Erman is the Armond listed above or if Pierce is the Pearson listed above.  If they are different sons, that, indeed, totals eight (8) children.
In the 1910 Census, Ermine and Otis are living part-time as hired hands with a white family, William P. Gaines.
In the 1920 Census, Erman and Anna ALEXANDER are married but have no children as yet.

    Larkin ALEXANDER,  son, b. 1872 GA

    Joseph W. ALEXANDER,  son, b. 1875 GA; the 1910 Census shows Joseph W. and Catherine ALEXANDER
are married and have six (6) children:
Elzular (spelling may be incorrect), dau., b. 1897
                 Larkin, son, b. 1899
                 Agnes, dau., b. 1902
                 Ernest, son, b. 1906
                 Ben, son, b. 1910

There are believed to be other children who cannot be identified at this time.  It is believed that the other children were married and in their own households by the time of the 1880 US Census.

************************************************************************************

The William Harkness and Creasy Alexander Family [Nobie's Grandfather]

(William) Harkness ALEXANDER; farmer; b. October, 1862;  m. Creasy, b. March, 1866; he died May 20, 1943.
Great-grandaughterVernelle remembers:  "Great-GrandpopHarkness  had a large farm (but, as you know, to kids everything seems large!).  He raised sugar cane, peanuts, watermelons and, perhaps, cotton.  He would tell us (Minnie Dee, Lydia and me) not to go in the sugar cane...which we did.  We would break off a stalk of cane and eat it.  We also dug up peanuts.  I can still remember the taste."

William Harkness and Creasy ALEXANDER had 15 children.  The known children are:
Jean (1882), Ervin (1883), Jim (1886), Rubin (1887), William (1889), Fannie (1891),  Jessie (1892), Thomas (1896), Ellis (1897), Marie (Mary) (1898), Homer (1901), Osie (1902), Susie (1903), Lucille (1905).

Child of William Harkness:Jeannie ALEXANDER; b. 1882 ; schooled at Savannah RiverAcademy; married Joseph Hudson.  [Jeannie is Hark and Judy Alexander's granddaughter].
               Jeannie's children: Lucius, b.? ; Frederick, b. 2/12/1904, d. 12/10/1997 and a daughter, Pearlie Mae Hudson Sanders, b. Nov/1906; d. 4/19/84. [These are WilliamHarkness and Creasy Alexander's grandchildren and Hark and Judy Alexander's Great-grandchildren]..
              Jeannie's son, Frederick (Fred) b. 1904, died in 1997; married Rosa Lee King in Wintergarden, FL.
Freddy's home was a sanctuary of safety and joy for those in need; a child's advocate, thoughtful, loving all.  To him there was no race, age, or class of man. He became Deacon Emeritus of NewZionBaptistChurch in Alliance, OH. He became Sunday School Superintendent, every Sunday making four and five trips to church, transporting neighborhood children to church and Sunday school.  His children called him the "perfect father" and he became a substitute father for his extended community family.
He had two daughters: Catherine b. 1.9.34 and Emma Jean, b. 2.2.39, Jeannie's granddaughters.  Fred's daughter and Jeannie's granddaughter,, Catherine Hudson Osley (m. Edward Osley, AllianceOH) is a minister of the Gospel.  Fred's daughter and Jeannie's granddaughter, Emma Jean Hudson Mitchell (m. Jerry Mitchell,Shaker Heights, OH), is a school counselor in Cleveland, OH. [These are William Harkness and Creasy Alexander's Great-granddaughers and Hark and Judy Alexander's Great-great-granddaughters]. Emma's daughter, Pamela, is a model and represents Ford in Ebony magazine.
               Fred's Grandchildren and Jeannie's Great-grandchildren are:  Dazzle Bruce Hawkins and wife, Cordette, of Akron, OH; Fredrick Wayne Hawkins and wife, Shafeeqa,, of Alliance OH; Cynthia Conley and husband, Anthony, of Canton, OH; Dana Scott Mitchell and wife, Mary, of Cleveland Heights, OH; Pamela Lynn Mitchell of Chicago, ILL: and Brian Rubin Hudson Mitchell of Shaker Heights, OH; Savannah Phyllis Dobbins and husband, Ernest of Alliance, OH; Curtis Osley of Alliance OH; Denise Jones of Alliance, OH; Danny Osley and wife, Faye, of Hollywood, FL. [These are William Harkness and Creasy Alexander's Great-great-grandchildren and Hark and Judy Alexander's Great-great-great-grandchildren]
                Fred's Great-grandchildren and Jeannie's Great-great-grandchildren number 23 as of December, 1997 [These are William Harkness and Creasy Alexander's Great-great-great-grandchildren and Hark and Judy Alexander's Great-great-great-
great-grandchildren..
                Fred's Great-great-grandchildren and Jeannie's Great-great-great-grandchildren number 14 as of December, 1997 [These are William Harkness and Creasy Alexander's Great-great-great-great-grandchildren and Hark and Judy Alexander's Great-great-great-great-great-grandchildren].
                 Jeannie's daughter, Pearlie Mae Sanders, b. 1906, died in 1984;  Pearlie Mae was a noted gospel singer and preacher of the Word.

Child of William Harkness: Ervin ALEXANDER, b.October, 1883; schooled at Savannah RiverAcademy?

Child of William Harkness: James (Jim) ALEXANDER, b April, 1886; schooled at SavannahRiverAcademy?

Child of William Harkness: Rubin ALEXANDER, b. Agust, 1887; schooled at Savannah RiverAcademy?

Child of William Harkness:William ALEXANDER; b.August, 1889; schooled at Savannah RiverAcademy; died August 24,1992 at age 103. William's two known daughters are Willadell Smith and Ernestine Wright of Detroit, Michigan.

Child of William Harkness: Fannie Julia ALEXANDER b. 2.25.1891; d. 12.7.1953; schooled at Savannah River Academy; m. Will Gaines b. 2.3.1889, veteran of World War I; Will died in 1940; Fannie m. Mr. Sam Plater; m. Elijah Benton

     Fannie and Will GAINES had four daughters: Geneva, Ruby, (Pecola) Nobie,O'Neal

Geneva GAINES, b.11/17/1908; schooled at Savannah RiverAcademy; died at age 25

Ruby GAINES b. March 17, 1910; schooled at Savannah RiverAcademy; m. Owen Gaines (deceased); m. Mr. Curry (deceased); died Jan 4, 1981
          Ruby and Owen Gaines had a daughter Gladys Gaines Spangler

(Pecola)Nobie GAINES b. March 10, 1912 ; schooled at Savannah River Academy; died Dec. 12, 1997; m. Marion Taylor Barnes b.May 1, 1907; d. August 4,1963
Nobie and Marion had six children: Vernelle, Dorothy, Fannie Ruth, Barbara Jean, Juanita Sue, Marion Earl
Nobie's descendants will be detailed below.

O'Neal GAINES b. 6.26.1914; schooled at Savannah RiverAcademy; m. Mr. Jeff Martin;
           O'Neal and Jeff had a son, Howard (deceased)

Child of William Harkness:Jessie ALEXANDER;  b. July, 1892; schooled at Savannah RiverAcademy

Child of WilliamHarkness: Tommie ALEXANDER; b. May, 1896; schooled at SavannahRiverAcademy

Child of William Harkness:Ellis ALEXANDER; b. March, 1897, died April 11, 1953; schooled at Savannah River Academy; associate pastor, Pilgrim Baptist Church, Pittsburgh, PA; The Pilgrim Baptist Church was founded in his Pittsburgh backyard in 1926, under Rev. William M. Pulliam, brought up from Hartwell, GA to pastor the church.  Ellis and his sister, Fannie Julia ALEXANDER Gaines Plater, were among the founding members of PilgrimBaptistChurch..  His wife, Sarah (Sally) was the last founding member when she passed away February 27, 2002.
              Ellis, b. 1897 and Sallie, b.1901, had a son:  James E. Alexander; m. Elizabeth Sadler; James died March 15, 1977
                 James (Alec) and Elizabeth had four (4) children:  Lawrence (Larry), Patricia (Patsy), Beverly (Bev) and James (Scoop) (deceased), all of Pittsburgh, PA

Child of William Harkness: Marie ALEXANDER, b. December, 1898; schooled at SavannahRiverAcademy

Child of William Harkness:Homer ALEXANDER; b. 3/18/1901; died 12/1/85; m. Augusta Hutchins in 1931; schooled at Savannah River Academy; was a minister, graduate of Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA; instrumental in inspiring hundreds of students to attend Morehouse and other colleges.  Pastor Emeritus of The Lindsay Street Baptist Church, Atlanta after 27 years as pastor; licensed and ordained 29 ministers; moderator of the Cabin Creek Assoc. for 26 years; president emeritus of the Fifth District Convention of the General Missionary Baptist Convention, Inc. for 26 years; Executive Board member of the General Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia, Inc for 30 years; baptized 11,028 individuals; performed more than 2,000 marriages, eulogized more than 6,000 individuals.

     Homer and Augusta had a son:  Dr. Cameron M. ALEXANDER; presently pastor of one of the largest Black churches in Atlanta, Antioch Baptist Church North of Atlanta, GA; president, General Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia, Inc. Cameron m. Barbara J. and has four children:  C. Eric Alexander; Gregory Alexander; Kenneth Alexander and Barbara Maria Alexander.  Cameron has three grandchildren: Shatavia, Gregory and Cameron Eric Alexander.

Child of William Harkness: Osie ALEXANDER, b. 1902

Child of William Harkness:Susie ALEXANDER; b. 1903; schooled at SavannahRiverAcademy

Child of William Harkness:Lucille ALEXANDER; b. 1905; schooled at Savannah RiverAcademy; married a Gaines; had two daughters, Minnie Dee and Lydia.

In the "olden days", family truly worked together.  It was lived out in actuality that "it takes a tribe to raise a child", for the children of the families lived with various relatives to help one another to "get on their feet".  Oftentimes, the parents lived in one state, finding work there, and the children lived in another state:  generally with grandparents - but often with friends -  who wanted to "keep the kid(s)" or to have the children  help work the farms.  That is one of the reasons why it is so difficult to easily trace Blacks' family lines. The census records of Hart County, Georgia  for 1920, show that our mother and grandmother, Nobie and her siblings - Ruby, Geneva and O'Neal - lived for a period of time with Great-GrandpopHarkness.
William Harkness Alexander and all his children are deceased.

**********

Family of William and Creasy Alexander's Grandchild (Pecola) Nobie Gaines Barnes

Nobie's Mother, Fannie Alexander Gaines
Mrs. Will Gaines
1892 - 1953

(Pecola) Nobie Gaines and Marion Taylor Barnes married August 25, 1929 family

Nobie and Marion
n. Nobie Gaines; Marion Harris Barnes
1912 - 1997          1907 - 1963

They had six children: Vernelle, Dorothy, Fannie Ruth, Barbara Jean, Juanita Sue, Marion Earl

Juanita Sue, Dorothy, Marion Earl, Vernelle, Barbara Jean

Fannie Ruth

Nobie (and Marion's children) and children's families:

Vernelle (b. 4/29/1930), passed away November, 2004

Nobie and Marion's Daughter, Vernelle (b. 4.29.1930, d. 11/2004); married Donald Bacon (deceased).Vernelle[deceased] was a retired library assistant and church builder.
Vernelle and Donald [both deceased]
Vernelle had eight children:  Gayle Arnetta, Donna Ann, Gary, LaVerne Jean, Jeanine Carol, Phyllis, Harold Lee, Kenneth.

Vernelle

Vernelle and children

Vernelle's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: GayleArnetta Barnes-Price b. 3.10.48
Gayle is Supervisor, Tri-State Children's Detention Home.

         Gayle, Gayle's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
             Sonya Price b. 6.25.1969; James Earl Price b. 6.25.1973

                   Sonya and Derrick McClintock, Bunny McClintock, Sharise, April, Jenea
, Sonya's children, Gayle Arnetta's Grandchildren, Vernelle's Great-grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-grandchildren:
Sharice Price b. 6.18.1986
April Price b. 4.3.1988
JeNea Price b. 10.18.1991

Vernell's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Donna Ann Bacon Ralph b. 1.12.1950; m. Eugene Ralph.  Donna works in the Finance Department, Dollar Bank, Pittsburgh, PA.

         Donna Ann's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren: Tracey Lavelle Ralph Webster b. 9.5.1968; m. Joseph William Webster III; children:  Joseph William Webster IV and Jasmine Onaya Webster:

Tracy and family

Tracy's children, Donna Ann's Grandchildren, Vernelle's Great-grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-great grandchildren:  Jasmine D. Webster b. 2.5.1995; Joseph Webster Jr.

               Eugene Steven Ralph  b.7.19.1973
Eugene's child, Donna Ann's Grandchild, Vernelle's Great-Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-great grandchild: David Wimbishb. 1.23.95

Vernelle's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Gary Bacon, Sr., b. 1.11.1951; m. Valeria (Pinky). Gary is a dental technician.

            Gary's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
                 Gary Bacon Jr. b. 11.24.1979
                 Gregory b. 9.23.1981
                      Gary Bacon, Jr.'s child, Gary Sr.'s Grandchild, Vernelle's Great-Grandchild, Nobie & Marions's Great-great-grandchild: ( a girl)
Gregory's child, Gary Sr.'s Grandchild, Vernelle's Great-Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-
grandchild:  (a girl)

Vernelle's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: LaVerne Jean b. 3.6.1952. LaVerne is a Nurse's Aide at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh:

LaVerne

LaVerne's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
Danyiel D. Bacon b. 8.1.1969 and Danyiel's children, LaVerne's Grandchildren, Vernelle's Great-Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-grandchildren: Anthony Horne b. 3.13.1991; Baylie  Horne  b. 3.25.1995

Danyiel and children, Anthony and Baylie

Terriann Patterson, b. 5.12.1983

Toni M. Bacon b. 4.7.1968:
Toni and family

                  Toni's children, LaVerne's Grandchildren, Vernelle's Great-Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-grandchildren: Lawrence Bacon b. 12.3.1984; LaRon   b. 7.20.1986; Bruce Nelson   b. 7.29.1992 

Lawrence's child, Toni's Grandchild, LaVerne's Great-grandchild, Vernelle's Great-Great-   Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-great-great-grandchild:
                          ?

Vernelle's Child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Jeanine Carol Bacon b. 4.14.1953; Jeanine is Manager, Pittsburgh Water Department:

  Jeanine

Faye, Jeanine's "baby"

Vernelle's Child, Nobie& Marion's Grandchild:  Phyllis Bacon Fisher b. 5.3.1954; Phyllis is Mail Handler, Pittsburgh Post Office.

Vernelle'sChild,Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:   Harold Lee Bacon b. 12.6.1957; m. Jenell Williams Bacon:  Harold Lee is Warehouse Manager in Snellville, GA.

              Harold Lee's children, Vernelle's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-Grandchildren:
Tyronda b. 8.5.1979
Harold L.BaconJr.b. 10.13.1982
Harold Lee Bacon b. 7.13.1986  (Los Angeles)
Antoine Deron Bacon  b. 6.1.1987  (Los Angeles)

Vernelle's Child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:   Kenneth D. Bacon b. 12.26.1964; Kenneth is Nursing Home Aide.

          Kenneth's children, Vernelle's Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
Kenneth Patterson b. 5.20.1989
Donald Edward Patterson b. 2.14.93--(Deceased 2.14.1993)
Jasmine D.Patterson b. 2.12.1995
A set of twins (?)

Dorothy (b. 4/4/1932)

Dorothy Barnes (b. 4.4.1932) and Harold Akrie (b. 5.14.1926); married 8.22.1953. Dorothy is a community activist, feted church "mother", and a noted church leader.

  Dorothy had four children:  Joy Ann, Terri Lynn, Francine Elizabeth, Gerald Dwayne.

Dorothy, Harold and family

     Dorothy's child,Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Joy Ann Akrieb.10.6.1954 ; m. Christopher Columbus Adams 3rd b. 2.5.1956 (deceased); Joy is an administrative aide for the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh.
          Joy Ann's children, Dorothy's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
Christopher Anthony Adams, b. 5.6.1983
Matthew David Adams b. 1.16.1989
Christoper's daughter, Hayley

Joy and sons, Christopher and Matthew Akrie

Joy's son and granddaughter
Christopher and daughter, Hayley

      Dorothy's child, Nobie & Marion's GrandChild:  Terri Lynn Akrie Goodman b. 8.29.1956; m. Craig Goodman. Terri is a flight attendant for US Air (27 years).
          Teri Lynn's Children, Dorothy's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
  Harold Michael Akrie, b. 7.26.1983
Loren KevinAkrie Goodman, b. 6.17.1987

     Dorothy's child, Nobie & Marion's GrandChild:Francine Elizabeth Akrie Martin, b. 7.11.1959; m. Russell Martin, b. 1.25.1960.  Francine graduated from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and is employed by American College of Physicians - American Society of Internal Medicine in Philadelphia, PA in Education and Career Development. Fran assists in the development, implementation and monitoring of specific initiatives for the Department of Education and Career Development including staff supervision, quality assurance and department representation.

          Francine Elizabeth's children, Dorothy's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
McKinsi Elizabeth Martin, b. 3.18.1993
Alexander Christian Martin, b. 7.5.1995

Fran, Russell and children, McKinsi and Alex                                           Alex and McKinsi

McKinsi has a passion for books, reading and creating stories.  At the age of 5, she began writing, illustrating and selling her stapled bound books for $5.00 each.  By the age of 8, she created "Mandy", which was illustrated by McKinsi's grandmother, Dorothy.

     Dorothy's child, Nobie & Marion's GrandChild: Gerald Dwayne Akrie, b. 10.3.1961; m. Carole Elizabeth French, of Trinidad, b. 11.4.1960. Gerald is pastor of St. Paul's AME Zion Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  He is a graduate of Christ For The NationCollege in Dallas, Texas and is attending Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Gerald was ordained as a Pastor of St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church in Carnegie, Pa. in October, the year 2000.
          Gerald Dwayne's children, Dorothy's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
Alicia Elizabeth Akrie b. 1.6.1990
Gerald Nathaniel Akrie b. 6.2.1991
Danielle Marie Akrie b. 6.17.1994
Joel Zachary Akrie b. 9.26.1995

Fannie Ruth (b. 3/14/1934)

Fannie and Raymond

Fannie and Raymond Linder married  1.30.1953.  Fannie has a doctorate in psychology, has been a concert soprano here and abroad, is a Bible teacher, retreat leader, a community leader and a patron of the arts; 1965 Outstanding Young Women of America.

    Fannie Ruth had two children:  Raymond Terence and Michael Craig.

        Fannie Ruth's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Raymond Terence b. 6.14.1954; m. Christine Muriel Strum 5.14.1983

Raymond Terence & Christine
Ray has an MBA in finance and economics, author of nationally published books, national TV and radio personality, business consultant/OKA associate; Outstanding Young Men of America

            Raymond Terence's children, Fannie Ruth's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-Grandchildren:
Diandra Nicole  b. 5.22.1989
Cassandra Christine  b. 4.16.1992

Diandra Cassandra

         Fannie Ruth's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Michael Craig b.9.10.1958 ; m. Colleen Jo Butgereit 2.10.1996

Michael Craig and Colleen
Michael is a senior Vice-President of sales and Chief Marketing Officer
with a national publishing firm, patron of the arts, community activist

             Michael's child, Fannie Ruth's Grandchild, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchild:
Logan James  b. 9.24.2000

Logan James
child model

Barbara Jean (b. 2/8/1936)

Barbara Jean and Willie Arthur Cheatham married 12.14.1956.  Barbara is a retired Civil Service administrator, serving overseas and stateside, a community activist and caretaker of friends.
   Barbara Jean had three children:  Cheryl Lynn, Daryl Arthur, Harold Michael

Barbara and sons, Harold and Daryl

       Barbara Jean's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Cheryl Lynn b. 4.3.1961; m. Jerry Hannah 9.19.1987

           Cheryl Lynn's child, Barbara Jean's Grandchild, Nobie's Great-Grandchild: ShawniceLynneab. 6.24.1988

Cheryl, Shawnice and Jerry

       Barbara Jean's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Daryl Arthur b. 12.2.1964.  Daryl is a media , Motown

        Barbara Jean's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:   Harold Michael b. 5.5.1966; m. Cynthia Odoms, 2.20.1993.  Harold honorably serves the country in the U. S. Army in Europe.

Juanita Sue (b. 11.25 1938)

Juanita and William A. Mitchell married 9.21.1957. Juanita is a teacher assistant in the Pittsburgh school system.
    Juanita Sue had three children:  William Elijah, Jacqueline Yvette, Paul Edward

Juanita and grandchildren

        Juanita Sue's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: William Elijah Mitchell  b. 4.5.1958 Saturday 5am.

             William's Elijah's children, Juanita Sue's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren :
  (5?)
         Juanita Sue's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Jacqueline Yvette b. 3.3.1962  Saturday2.20am

              Jacqueline Yvette's children, Juanita Sue's Grandchildren, Nobie & Marion's Great-grandchildren:
(3?)

         Juanita Sue's child,Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Paul Edward  b.11.17.1962. Paul is a noted chef for celebrities in Florida.

Marion Earl (b. 12/10/1940)

   Marion Earl and Brenda Thompson married 12.5.1975. Earl is an ordained lay minister, professional graphics artist, a community activist - coaching youth sports programs.
       Marion Earl had five children:  Kevin Charles, Leah Ruth, Aaron, Hilary, Linda

Earl, Brenda and family

            Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Kevin Charles b. 5.31.75.   Kevin is a PennState graduate in Business Administration. Kevin was a noted basketball star at SewicklyAcademy,

             Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Leah Ruth b. 9.15.76.  Leah attended PennState and  is a dental technician in the U. S. Army.

             Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild:  Aaron Taylor b. 12.26.80.  Aaron is a student at Edinboro, College in PA. and is quite a basketball player, also.

              Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's Grandchild: Hilary Dianeb. 1.12.82. Hilary is also a student at Edinboroand a gifted athlete.

              Marion Earl's child, Nobie & Marion's GrandChild:  Linda Maria Nobie b. 2.28.85.

Nobie's "Kids"

**********************************

ANCESTORS' LETTERS FOUND IN NOBIE'S ESTATE

Letter from Sam Plater [Fannie Alexander Gaines Plater's second husband] to Fannie's daughter/his
step-daughter, Geneva Gaines].

OxfordLA
April 4, 1929

Miss Geneva Gaines of Rome, Georgia,
I received your letter today and was so glad to hear from you.  This leaves me doing just fine so far and I hope this will find you all well.  Yes, Geneva, I am down here for my health. I have been here five weeks and I think I am doing fine.  I think that I will be able to leave in about one more month.  Listen, my trouble is my heart. That's what the doctor down here says. The doctor in Pittsburgh says that I had lung trouble.
Yes, I sure was glad to hear from you.  I mailed Fannie a letter just before I got your letter.  I will write and
tell Fannie that I got a letter from you.
Listen, Geneva, you must be a good little girl and just as soon as I get able to go to work, I will send you a
nice dress.
I get a letter from Fannie every week.  Sure I do want to see my wife.  Give my love to all when you go home.
My mother sends love to you.  You must pray for me.
This is from Sam Plater, Oxford, Louisiana.
Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Another letter from Sam Plater to Geneva Gaines [Rome, Georgia]. This seems to be one of his last letters as
he passed away July 1st, 1929]: 

Oxford, LA
April 18, 1929

Miss Geneva Gaines, I received your letter today and was glad to hear from you.  This leaves me doing just
fine, Geneva, and I hope this will find you all well.
Yes, we have some good doctors down here.  I have to go to the doctor about three times a week.
I am looking for a letter from Fannie today.
I will be glad when I can say I am well.  This is a good place here at my home but I just want to leave.  I will
stay till I get well.  You told me not to worry.  I am not worrying at all,Geneva, but you know Fannie is not in good health.  I think about that but she say that she is doing fine.
My mother sends love to you and give my love to all.
Yes, Geneva, I am feeling just fine this morning.  Yes I will let you hear from me every week.
This is from Sam Plater, Oxford, LA.
Write soon.

Letter from Sam Plater's mother, Mrs. Banner Raines: 

Oxford, Louisiana
July 10, 1929

Mrs. Fannie Plater -
Dear Fannie,
I received your letter yesterday and must tell you that Sam died on July 1st. He was bad sick only a few days.
He did not have to suffer very long.  We thought he was getting better and would soon be up again but he got
worse and died right away.
I would have written you but have been too bothered and worried.  I will write more next time.  We buried him nice and he was perfectly willing to die.  He got religion just two days before he died so I feel like The Lord took him home.
Let me hear from you often.
Your mother,
Banner [Bama, Bamma] Raines

A letter from Sam Plater's mother, Mrs. Banner Raines: 

Oxford, LA
April 28, 1930

Mrs. Fannie Plater, dear daughter.
I received your letter and was glad indeed to hear from you.  It found me well and doing just fine.  Hope when
these few lines come to hand they will find you enjoying the very best of life. Don't think hard [of me] for not
writing any sooner.  You know how it is with people who can't write for themselves.  Have get someone else to do [the writing].
You asked me about marrying.  No, I am not married yet.  Give my love to all my friends.
Oh, I have moved but you still address my letters to Oxford.
How is Mr. Holloway?  Tell him to pray and tell Kelly to write me.  I've got something to tell him and I want
him to write me.  I have written him but I didn't get no answer.
We are having fine weather down here.
I know "it is cold out there" so pray and be a good girl and visit the church.
I will write more next time.
This is Lula Cook's address:  1210A N. Third Street, Louis, IL.
I will close
From your mother,
Banner Rains

Geneva Gaines' last letter of her life to her mother, Fannie Alexander Gaines Plater.
Geneva was a housekeeper for a white family in West Virginia.  She was found dead in bed there at age 25.
Charleston, WV
#20 Brooks St.

Sept 2, 1935

Darling Mother,
This is a very dreary, rainy day.  Our Sunday School had planned a picnic on the hills, but, unless it clears up,
am afraid there will be no picnic today.
What are you all doing?
I had hoped to spend this day with you there.
Since I didn't get home, hope you will find lots to do to make this a full day.

I wrote you a letter week before last and sent it out by someone to mail.  Hope you got it ok.
Had a letter from Grandpapa sometime ago asking me to come home to stay with the.  Don't know just what to tell him, as I don't know what I am going to do.  I haven't answered his letter, but will talk things over with you when I come home.
How do I like my new home? "Pretty good". The house is larger and we keep such a crowd until sometime I
hardly know what to do, where to start and what to think.  I have always tried to have patience, but now, I
think it is almost out.
We have had a crowd ever since we came from down South.
Three men beside the Calhouns and I've had to do for them the same as I do for the Calhouns.  Would have
told you before, but thought they wouldn't be here so long.  See?  Anyway, don't worry.  I'll be coming home,
and I don't know but I will think about it before I come back.
Let me hear from you real soon.

Your baby
G.
P.S. Hope you are well.  Think about my going south and will talk about it when I come home.

Letter from Pearlie Sanders, granddaughter of William H. Alexander and daughter of his daughter Jeanie
Alexander Hudson.  The letter is to Fannie Alexander Gaines Plater, Jeanie's sister]: 

Alliance, Ohio
March 6, 1938

Dear Aunt Fannie,
Just a line to let you hear from me.  I have been sick with pleurisy but am better.
Now Mama [our Great-Aunt Jeanie] has gotten worse.  She isn't doing good at all.  For some cause she has that shortness of breath so bad and several other complaints so I thought I had better let you know at once.
So this is all.
Your niece, Pearlie Sanders
P.S. Did not have time to write

Letter from William H. Alexander, father of Fannie Alexander Gaines Plater and Grandfather of Nobie Gaines
Barnes]: 

Hartwell, GA
August the 22nd, 1941

Dear Fannie,  with much pleasure to write to let you hear from me. Am doing fairly well at present.  Hoping when these few lines reach your hand they will find you and family well.  I have received your letter some time ago and was truly glad to hear from you.  It found us all doing fairly well.  Marie [our Great Aunt] has been sick but better now.
Fannie, your [Great] Aunt Sarah is dead [his aunt] and buried.  Died last Tuesday [August, 1941] and buried today at Sardis [church cemetery in Hartwell, GA].  A good many of her children who were off came to her funeral. Some of them I had not seen in a long time .  Price Oliver and Will Oliver, her oldest boys, were here to her funeral.
Now, Fannie, I wrote some time ago about Will Gaines  [his daughter, Fannie's first husband and father of her four (4) daughters: Nobie, Ruby, Geneva and O'Neil] being dead and I saw some of his folks from the place where he lived.  Told me that he died two years ago [1939]. Had a wife and onegirl.Said that he stayed in the hospital a long time before he died.
Now, Fannie, be a good child and trust The Lord for His goodness and He will carry you through.  Write soon
and let me hear from you.
I am again yours truly,
Father, William H. Alexander

Letter from O'Neal, daughter of William H. Alexander Gaines and sister of Fannie Alexander Gaines. Letter
written to Fannie:

Hartwell, Geurgia
May 17, 1943

My dear Sis, just a few lines.
I am doing fairly well but Dad is not doing any good and Marie [our Great Aunt] is very sick.  She is
swollen to burst all in her stomach down to her knees.  The doctor says the water has almost covered her
heart and for us to watch her.  Says she is likely to drop off at any time.  We have to sit up at night.
I am writing Jessie and the rest of the children and I wrote for her to come home.  You stay so far but you can
decide about coming.  I don't think you all should wait until something happens but you be your own judge.
So I will come to a close .
From your sis
P.S. I am looking for H. M. [their uncle Homer] this morning.
O'Neal

Western Union Telegram from Rev. Homer Alexander to his sister, Fannie Plater [this announces the death of
their father, William H. Alexander, Nobie Barnes' Grandfather]: 

Hartwell, GA
May 20, 1943

Mrs. Fannie Plater
15 Cantrell Street
Pittsburgh, PA

FATHER DEAD   FUNERAL SUNDAY   ANSWER IF COMING

REV H M ALEXANDER

Letter from Susie [daughter of W. H. Alexander and sister of Fannie Alexander Gaines Plater].  The letter is
to Fannie: 

Hartwell, GA
May 28, 1943

Dear Fannie,
Yours was read on yesterday.  Glad to hear from you. Too sorry to hear of you being ill.  Hope you are better by now.
Marie is doing fine this morning.  Hope soon you can be able to come home.
Be sweet and don't worry, Fannie, now.
From sister Susie.
Answer soon.  All send love to you.

==================

I, Fannie Barnes Linder, also have World War II Ration books for our Grandmother, Fannie Alexander Gaines Plater Benton.
I also have our Mother, Nobie's, phone book of phone/addresses in which she kept record of friends and family.
Dorothy Barnes Akrie has some other records from our Step-Grandfather, Elijah Benton
Vernelle Barnes Bacon has Nobie's collections of family photographs, etc.

This site will be continually updated.....
***********************************

Joyfully prepared,
Fannie Ruth Barnes Linder
Raymond and Michael Linder's mother
Diandra and Cassandra Linder's grandmother
Logan James Linder's grandmother
Marion andNobie Gaines Barnes's daughter
Fannie Alexander Gaines' granddaughter
William Harkness Alexander's great-granddaughter

Hark and Judy Alexander’s great-great-granddaughter