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
Tombstone Tuesday-Amelia Marcus
The first time I was shown the grave-sites of my great-great grandmother Amelia Marcus, and my great-grandfather’s first wife, Mary Eliza, I was pleasantly surprised of the upkeep, and the poetry which was written on the tombstones. The lyrics told me about the love and dedication that my great-grandfather August Bough felt towards his mother,…… Continue reading Tombstone Tuesday-Amelia Marcus
Sarahs Journey to Freedom
On today’s journey, I decided to take a look at Sarah Beaudhuy’s (1773/1774 – 1868) Free Person of Color status. Although Sarah Beaudhuy was listed on the “Register of Free Inhabitants Living in the Town of Christiansted, 1794-1811”, I was curious about how long was Sarah in slavery. What was the reason she was…… Continue reading Sarahs Journey to Freedom