Discovering Family History: A Deep Dive into Slavery and Legacy

Unveiling the Past

Would you be shocked if you found out that your family ancestors owned slaves in the 1800s? For those like me, the discovery can be both startling and enlightening. I have always been interested in genealogy and have traced my family history back to the 1890s to the early 1900s. Until recently, I was unaware of any slave-owning ancestors until I discovered that one of my great-great-grandfathers, Capt. David Gwin, owned eight named slaves in his will. Let's delve into the complexities of this discovery and its implications.

Slavery and Its Global Impact

Slavery has existed in many parts of the world throughout history. Criticizing the descendants of slave owners requires solid evidence that no ancestors of theirs owned slaves. Otherwise, the accusations can be dismissed as baseless (BS). As important as it is to acknowledge the past, it is equally crucial not to magnify or misconstrue historical facts.

Ancient Legacy of Capt. David Gwin

One of my ancestors, Capt. David Gwin of Highland County, Virginia, died in 1820 and left behind eight slaves, explicitly named in his will. He also bequeathed a number of unnamed slaves to his children. This information has been known to me since I was a child, and it has challenged my views on ancestry and legacy. While he profited from the exploitation of slave labor, the wealth gained is long gone, as the family fortune has been dissipated by a series of financial missteps and personal misfortunes.

Complicity and Oblivion

Another ancestor of mine was a police officer in Columbus, Lowndes County, Mississippi, from 1870 to 1913. During this period, Lowndes County had the second-highest rate of lynchings in the state. While I cannot prove his involvement, it is highly likely that he was complicit given the historical context. This reality is painful but undeniable. However, as time has passed, and he lies in Friendship Cemetery, one can only reflect on this part of his life from a distance.

Universal Descent from Evil Bunch

It is a fact that every person can trace their lineage back to figures who engaged in morally reprehensible acts. For instance, Charlemagne, a key figure in European history, is said to have massacred 4500 Saxons at Verden in 782. Similarly, millions of Asians can trace their ancestry to the bloody conqueror and rapist, Genghis Khan. Thus, it is impossible for anyone to claim a history free from moral blemishes. This understanding can be both humbling and sobering.

Working Toward a Fairer Future

Given this context, it is both important and necessary to acknowledge and learn from the historical legacy of slavery. While we cannot change the past, we can work towards a more equitable world for the descendants of those affected by it. Through my writing, teaching, voting, and daily actions, I strive to contribute positively to this cause. It is not driven by "white guilt," but rather by a commitment to values that seek fairness and justice.

Conclusion

The discovery of slavery in one's family history can be a profound and complex experience. It challenges our understanding of our ancestors, our family, and our place in the world. As we move forward, it is crucial to embrace history with a critical eye and work towards a more inclusive and equitable future.