My great-great grandfather disappeared
After visiting Mississippi, I learned the story of my great-great grandparents. My cousin arrived with a thick book full of my family’s history dating back to 1859. I’d never seen a photo of my paternal greats, so it blew me away to see this beautiful woman with very familiar features. Her wide nostrils, tight eyes, and stern look reminded me of my grandfather. Under her picture read Lonnie Williams with her birth and death date. Beside her photo sat an image of a bible replacing her husband with only his birth date.
I questioned if there were any images of William, and my cousin took a seat to explain the story. William and Lonnie owned a peach orchard in Yalobusha County. After a land dispute with white men in the town, they gave him an ultimatum. They told him his family could keep the land if he left. If he stayed, he had to give up the land. He couldn’t do both or they would kill him. So he left, and he was never seen again. His wife Lonnie also had 10 children, and one became a legend. I can’t wait to share that story.
I wonder what happened to William, and what happened to the peach orchard. This story sent me spiraling, but it also inspired me to honor Lonnie. What a strong woman she must’ve been to raise 10 children despite her circumstances. What courage she must’ve had to keep going.
I painted a photo of a woman surrounded by peaches. I look at it as a symbol of hope, strength, courage, and dignity. There are thousands of stories like William and Lonnie especially in the south. Thousands of memories from black families being separated and broken due to systemic racism.
I also learned of medicinal usages of peach leaves. One major use is for the treatment of jaundice. I wonder if she used it to help any of her children who might’ve had our family’s blood disorder trait. I can’t wait to share more stories with you.
The limited edition print entitled Peaches is available for sale below. Your support helps me to continue researching, painting, and sharing.
Lonnie’s portrait.
Here’s a simple recipe for Peach Leaf Tea.
Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan.
Add 1 tablespoon of peach tea leaves,
Insert 2 drops of pure vanilla extract or fresh vanilla bean ( I prefer vanilla bean)
Add 2 cardamom cloves
Allow it steep for about 5 minutes
Strain the mixture
Sweeten it with honey
Add a few drops of coconut milk or almond milk and enjoy