Through the Eyes of Others: My Quest to Read and Support Authors of Genealogical Biographies

Genealogical biographies have long been overshadowed in the world of historical texts and manuscripts. The authors who dedicate themselves to uncovering and sharing these deeply personal histories are often under-represented, their voices lost among the grand narratives of more widely recognized historical figures. My journey to read and support these authors began with a simple realization: the stories of everyday people, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, are just as vital to our understanding of history as the tales of kings and conquerors.

Discovering Miles Lassiter

The first book I chose for my "Through The Eyes Of Others" genealogical biographies book review series is Miles Lassiter (circa 1777-1850) by Margo Lee Williams. From the very first pages, Williams draws readers into her journey of discovery, beginning at a time when she was unaware that Miles Lassiter was her ancestor or that he was an early African American Quaker in North Carolina. Her narrative is not just a recounting of facts; it is a personal exploration, filled with the excitement, uncertainty, and emotional resonance that comes with uncovering one's roots.

As I read, I felt an immediate kinship with Williams. Like her, my own genealogical research has brought me closer to extended family, a connection I have come to cherish deeply, especially as someone who grew up as an only child. Williams’s reflections on the extraordinary achievements of Miles Lassiter’s descendants resonated with me, echoing the pride and wonder I have felt when learning about my own family’s history.

A Conversation, Not a Lecture

What sets Williams’s writing apart is her ability to make the reader feel like a companion on her journey. The book is written in the first person, creating an engrossing, conversational tone that invites readers to share in her discoveries. The information is meticulously researched, yet never feels dry or academic. Instead, it unfolds naturally, like a dialogue between friends exploring their shared beginnings in genealogy and the sometimes painful, always rewarding, revelations that come with it.

The inclusion of family photographs adds a rich texture to the story, transforming names and dates into living, breathing people. I found myself identifying with the "characters" in her family, especially her mother, Margaret Lee Williams. Just as Williams relied on her mother for foundational knowledge and details, my own grandfather was my go-to source during my research. These intergenerational connections are the heart of genealogical work, providing both guidance and a sense of continuity.

A Profound Story Written with Love

One paragraph, in particular, stood out to me as the embodiment of the book’s spirit. On page 86, Williams writes:

"The obituary went on to say that he had become the manager and overseer for the Widow Lassiter and her family. According to the account therein, he had been very successful in this position and had significantly improved her family's financial well being. It mention also that he was injured in a riding accident. The accident left him permanently disabled, nevertheless, the Widow continued to rely on him to manage her affairs. The obituary also stated that Miles and his wife, a free woman of color, acquired land adjacent to the Widow's land, and that he then managed both properties."

Why Genealogical Biographies Matter

Reading Miles Lassiter has reinforced my belief in the importance of genealogical biographies. These works offer more than just historical facts; they provide guidance for those beginning their own genealogical journeys, empathy for those grappling with difficult family histories, and inspiration through stories of perseverance and triumph. They remind us that history is not just about the famous, but about all of us—our ancestors, our families, and the communities that shaped us.

Supporting authors like Margo Lee Williams is essential to ensuring that these stories are told and preserved. Their work enriches our understanding of the past and helps us forge deeper connections with our own histories.

Looking Ahead

I am grateful to have started my series with such a profound and heartfelt book. Miles Lassiter is a phenomenal read for anyone interested in genealogy, history, or simply the power of family. As I continue my quest to read and support authors of genealogical biographies, I look forward to discovering more stories that illuminate the lives of those who came before us and inspire us to honor their legacies.

Through the Eyes of Others will continue to highlight the voices and stories that deserve to be heard. Each book is a step closer to understanding not just where we come from, but who we are.