Exploring the Chairs from Enslaved People at Presley Nelms Jr.'s Plantation

Robin R. Foster at Anson County Historical Society on 2 September 2024. Taken by Ellis McClure.

Yesterday was a day filled with anticipation and excitement as we eagerly made our way to the Anson County Historical Society to meet with Steve Bailey. The purpose of our visit was to examine the chairs generously donated by Barbara Griffin, which had once belonged to Presley Nelms Jr., my fourth great grandfather. These chairs held a special significance as they were originally placed in the enslaved house (I had ancestors there), carrying with them a profound historical weight and a poignant reminder of a past that we must never forget.

Robin R. Foster stands next to the chairs that were on the property of Presley Nelms Jr. They were at the house of the enslaved. Taken by Ellis McClure.

Upon seeing the chairs, a wave of humility washed over me, realizing the stories and experiences that these simple pieces of furniture bore witness to. It was a moment of reflection and reverence, as I stood in the presence of objects that connected us to a time long gone but not to be erased from memory.

Delving into the history of my ancestors, I discovered a fascinating connection to the past. The legacy of my third great grandparents, David and Lucy Nelms, is a testament to resilience and perseverance. Imagining their lives in that place, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and admiration.

As I stood next to the chairs that might have once belonged to them, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. Perhaps my second great grandfather, Buck Nelms, sat on one of those very chairs, his presence lingering in the air like a whisper from the past. The thought of tracing my family lineage through these tangible remnants of history filled me with a profound sense of belonging and curiosity. Each chair held a story waiting to be unraveled, connecting me to a time long gone.

Robin R. Foster seated next to the chairs that were on the property of Presley Nelms Jr. They were at the house of the enslaved. Taken by Ellis McClure.

Steve Bailey's invitation and the opportunity to view these chairs not only provided a glimpse into the past but also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring our history. The act of donation by Barbara Griffin further highlighted the significance of community efforts in safeguarding our heritage for future generations to learn from and appreciate.

A chair that was on Presley Nelms Jr.'s property.

A chair that was on Presley Nelms Jr.'s property.

A chair that was on Presley Nelms Jr.'s property.

As I left the Anson County Historical Society that day, I carried with me a newfound sense of gratitude and respect for the individuals and stories that shaped our shared history, reaffirming the importance of acknowledging and commemorating every aspect of our past, no matter how challenging or uncomfortable it may be.

I also was given a few more clues. Steve gave them to me. I have begun again. Last night, I came up with a string of possibilities. Just subscribe by entering your email address at the top of this post.

These occurrences are common with me. If you want to know more about them, then read about how I found the formerly enslaved: My Best Genealogy Tips: Finding Formerly Enslaved Ancestors.

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