Living Ancestors

Remembrance  Littie Sanders Daniel Remembrance, a symbol of strength and resilience, passed away on December 19, 1964, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate 59 years after her departure. Born into a world of newfound freedom as the first generation born free to Jim Sanders and Hannah Billingsley, Littie emerged as a matriarch who would shape the destinies of many generations and leave an indelible mark on her family's history. In the heart of Alabama, Littie Sanders Daniel chose to remain grounded, even as the winds of change swept through the South. Her commitment to her roots was unwavering, a testament to her deep connection to the land and the people she loved. While her children embarked on the journey northward, seeking new opportunities and horizons, Littie stood firm in her decision to stay in Alabama. Despite the physical distance, Littie's spirit traversed the miles to remain close to her scattered progeny. She would make the journey to visit her children...

In the quiet corners of Cleveland, Ohio, a remarkable woman named Linda Jones left an indelible mark on the tapestry of time. Born on May 1, 1951, and departing this world on March 3, 2022, Linda's life journey speaks not only of her personal triumphs and tribulations but also echoes the deep currents of history and generational  resilience. A Woman Ahead of Her Time Linda Jones was more than just a name and a set of dates. She was a woman ahead of her time, navigating a world that often failed to recognize the internal suffering and mental bonds she carried. Linda was one of eight siblings, born into a world of promise and struggle, against the backdrop of the great migration  North. The Promise Land: Cleveland Ohio In the aftermath of the great migration, Linda's family, like many others, sought refuge and opportunity in Cleveland, Ohio. This was the Promise Land, a city that held the aspirations of countless black families escaping the burdens and challenges of th...

Joanne Rox In remembrance of Joanne Rox, this biography pays tribute to a life that began on February 19, 1959, in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio. Joanne's parents, Richard Lee Rox Jr. and Diane V Walker, were young and embarked on the journey of parenthood at the ages of 22 and 23, respectively. Little did they know, their daughter's life would weave a tapestry of experiences that would leave a lasting impact on those who knew and loved her. Joanne's story unfolded against the backdrop of a changing world. Born into a dynamic era, she witnessed societal shifts, technological advancements, and the ebb and flow of cultural tides. Her early years in Cleveland set the stage for a life that would be both meaningful and, at times, challenging. As she transitioned into adulthood, Joanne embraced the responsibilities and joys of motherhood. She welcomed a son into the world, a testament to the enduring legacy she would leave behind. The bond between mother and child became a corners...

 Remembrance of Orland J Jones In remembrance of Orland Jefferson Jones, this biography serves as a tribute to a distinguished gentleman and artist whose life unfolded against the backdrop of the 20th century. Born in Charleston, West Virginia, in 1915, Orland entered the world alongside his twin brother Earl. His parents, Margaret Chandler (1897-1958) and John William Jones (1895-1931), provided the foundation for a life that would be marked by creativity and dedication. Orland's journey into the realm of the arts began in the mid-1930s when he secured positions at some of the finest establishments in Cleveland, Ohio. From 1935 to 1945, he graced the halls of prestigious hotels such as the Décor Hotel in Toledo, the Tudor Arms Hotel, and the Commodore Hotel in Cleveland. His commitment to excellence in his work set the stage for a successful career in the world of hospitality. Eager to expand his artistic horizons, Orland pursued education at the School of Arts in Cleveland. This ...

Echoes of Generations: A Legacy Unveiled On a chilly December day in Cleveland, Ohio, I find myself surrounded by memories, contemplating the timeless tales of my ancestors and their lives on Westchester Ave and E.105th. The bitter wind serves as a poignant reminder as I sift through old belongings, pondering their significance and the narratives they hold. As I reflect on the traditions of the past, my mind turns to the local yard sales and give-away tables that were a hallmark of my Lott family's history—a testament to the ethos of sharing, giving, and letting go of items whose time has come. Tomorrow marks the 19th anniversary of the passing of Orland Jefferson Jones, my paternal grandfather. His memory is not only a somber reflection but also an occasion to celebrate a Distinguished Gentleman whose impact resonates through the generations. In the inaugural edition of a weekly dedication series, I pay tribute to my own mother, Linda Jones nee’ Rox. Her unwavering strength, love,...

Unveiling the Tapestry: My Journey into Ancestral Stories Welcome, dear readers, to the unfolding chapters of my personal odyssey - a journey that began in 2018 and has since been a captivating exploration of the incredible stories embedded in the roots of my family tree.  This narrative is a testament to the power of discovery, the resilience of familial legacies, and the invaluable contributions of a dedicated ancestor, the late Curtis Bolden Jr., our family Historian for the Bolden/Lott Family. in 2018, my journey commenced with the unexpected gift of a family book, a cherished relic that would become the compass guiding me through the intricate paths of my linage. This precious tome, the Bolden/Lott family history, was pass down to me by my uncle, a gesture made all the more poignant by the fact that he had succumbed to the devastating 2017 Santa Rosa, California Fire. The weight of this inheritance was not lost on me, and I embarked on a quest to unravel the mysteries conceale...