For this blogging prompt: I selected an ancestor who was on the threshold of adulthood, as well as a freshman entering Hampton Institute in Virginia. In my mind, Sarah experienced the feelings of arrival and gratefulness before her life was cut short.
Portsmouth VA- September 25 1931 – Miss Sarah Otella Bough, 18 year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Bough, passed away at the residence of her parents , 304 Effingham Street Thursday, September 25th after a short illness. The funeral services were held Sunday at 4 p.m. at the Emanuel A.M.E church, Rev J.A. Young, the pastor officiated, assisted by Rev L.L. Berry, pastor of St. Johns Church in Norfolk.
Papers were read from the Norcom High School Faculty and from the Church Class No. 29. Miss Myrtle Petrey sang, “When It Comes To The End of a Perfect Day” and Messrs.’ James Driver, George Morgan, Leonard Western, and Wesley Fagan sang, “Raise Me Jesus To Thy Bosom” The Norcom Fellowship Choir rendered “Crossing the Bar”. The Choir sang two selections.
Miss Bough is survived by her parents and five sisters, Roslind V., Katryn Y., Italina A., Charlotte and Mrs. Gwendolyn Fortseque. She was a graduate of Norcom High School and entered as a freshman at Hampton Institute last September to pursue college work. Intermit was in Mt. Olive Cemetery.
Sarah Otella Bough is my first cousin 3x removed.
New Journal and Guide (1921-2003) Oct 3, 1931
ProQuest Historical Newspapers Norfolk Journal and Guide (1921 – 2003)
Pg. 8
Like this:
Like Loading...
By shelley dewese
As I continue to search out my history, I am discovering how much I did not know. The more information disclosed about my ancestry, the more I learn and understand how I am the person that has evolved today.
My family's research efforts have taken me on an enlightening journey back through the past in the U. S. Virgin Islands (formerly Danish West Indies) and Coastal Georgia. As with most people of Afro-Caribbean descent, my ancestry stems from peoples brought together by colonialism and conquest; it stems from people thrown together, albeit forcibly, by the throes of enslavement. As a result, my DNA tells me that my people originate in Africa, Europe, England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Lesser Antilles, and Leeward Caribbean Islands.
Two collections made my dream to research my ancestors in the Danish West Indies a reality. I have conducted extensive research using the St. Croix Population Database 1734-1917, a St. Croix African Roots Project product, and a research and document transcription effort sponsored by the Virgin Islands Social History Associates (VISHA). The other catalyst has been accessing the extensive photo, manuscript, and microfilm collections at the Library and Archives of the St. Croix Landmarks Society at Estate Whim in St. Croix.
My heartfelt thanks go to all my cousins, extended "cousin-family," friends, and research colleagues from the St. Croix-based Virgin Islands Ancestry Discovery Group, for their input and collaboration. I also want to thank the UJima Genealogy Group in Coastal Georgia and GlynnGen.com; webmaster Amy Hendrick has introduced me to Southern History and its people.
This site allows you to transform yourself to a time during the Danish period (1734-1917) when life was both complex and straightforward. If you have any questions, comments, or need assistance searching for a Danish West Indies ancestor, I invite you to drop me an email. Its.sheldew@gmail.com
I especially appreciate the followers' encouragement.
View all of shelley dewese's posts.
My Genealogical Journey: 
I always think it is a sad thing when life is ended so early. You have helped to keep her memory alive.
LikeLike
My mission was to honor her short life. I appreciate your comment. Thank you.
LikeLike
Sarah, an aunt whom I never knew, was the sister of my mother, Kathryn Bough Nichols. Thank you so much for remembering her.
LikeLike
Charlotte:
It is my pleasure to honor our relative.
LikeLike