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 in 52 weeks: Week #1 – Beginnings

52 Ancestors in 52 weeks:  Week #1 – Beginnings Genealogy is not just a compilation of dates, not a listing of surnames, it is simply His-Story/Her-Story.   As Amy Cross says no story is too small.  This year, I will make every effort to tell the ancestor’s story using genealogical data, pictures, family lore, oral…… Continue reading 52 Ancestors in 52 weeks: Week #1 – Beginnings

Finding family along the Altamaha River in Coastal Georgia

#52 Ancestors Week 48 “Gratitude” Dozens of plantations lined the Altamaha River throughout many counties. All my father’s maternal ancestors were from Brunswick Glynn County, GA. They resided on the sea islands most likely as enslaved people. I discovered my 4th Grandfather, Israel White’s name on the 1874-1800 Tax Digest, Glynn County Georgia. The register…… Continue reading Finding family along the Altamaha River in Coastal Georgia