Charlie Matthews (1896-1941) my grand-father on my paternal side portrait style photo is my favorite picture. He’s well dressed and looks little prosperous. Date of photo is unknown. He was the son of John Matthews and Amanda Allen-Matthews both of Barnwell, South Carolina. Charlie Matthews was the youngest of six (6) Children. He was born August…… Continue reading 52 Ancestors #14 Favorite Photo Charlie Matthews
Author: shelley dewese
With over 40 years in the Virgin Islands, I am a New Yorker with deep roots in the Danish West Indies, researching surnames Bough, Beaudhuy, and Gasper. Uncovering my history has revealed unknown aspects of my ancestry, shaping my present identity. I find joy in sharing stories and connecting with others.
As a transcriptionist researcher, I compiled the digitized St. Croix Population Database, drawing from Danish, American, and Virgin Islands archives. I am a proud member of organizations like the Society of Virgin Islands Historian, Friends of Denmark and Ujima Genealogy Research Group.
My dream of exploring Danish West Indies ancestors became a reality through the St. Croix Population Database and access to collections at the St. Croix Landmarks Society. I recently launched the VI Headline Rewinds podcast, delving into vintage Virgin Islands newspapers.
I appreciate the support of collaborators and followers. For assistance with Danish West Indies genealogy, feel free to reach out via email. its.sheldew@gmail.com
52 Ancestors Week 13 – Different
Week 13 (March 26 – April 1) – Different. What ancestor seems to be your polar opposite? What ancestor did something that seems completely different than what they “should” have done or what you would have done? Thought I’d take a look at my ancestors’ slave owner, the Progenitor of the Beaudhuy family in the Danish…… Continue reading 52 Ancestors Week 13 – Different
52 Ancestors Week No. 12- Same
The last couple of weeks have been truly occupied in a pleasant manner. Spending time with my mom’s niece on the island was very refreshing. Her visit gave me the opportunity to re-discover St. Croix and enjoy our one-of-a-kind culture. Albeit, I am looking forward to getting up to speed with the 52 week Ancestor…… Continue reading 52 Ancestors Week No. 12- Same
My Genealogical Journey: 