Home > Online Exhibits > Genealogy Success Stories > Beverly Y. Smith found Moriah, her great-great-grandmother, and Minerva, her great-great-aunt

Beverly Y. Smith found Moriah, her great-great-grandmother, and Minerva, her great-great-aunt

Finding Moriah and Minerva

"I have been engaged in my genealogical research for more than ten years.  Stories from family members led me to seek out more information through records, graveyards, and obituaries. 

I discovered my great-great grandmother Moriah b.1821 was owned by Jeremiah Blaylock. She was listed in his will. A year ago a cousin informed me Moriah had a twin. I began searching for her. My search led me to the Last Seen: Finding Family After Slavery project. I read through the ads, listened to readings of the ads, read recommended books. I have not found an Information Wanted ad at this time. I continue to search. My quilts reflect this passion. I created this series, Last Seen Wearing. In it, I call out my ancestors by names. Thank you for this incredible work."

-Beverly Y. Smith

Minerva Smith's gravestone


 

 

Minerva by Beverly Y. Smith


 

 

Evangeline by Beverly Y. Smith


 

Visit Smith's website to view more of her work.