Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

Passion724 t1_jbc5fsr wrote

Reply to comment by Gilamath in Navy renames warship after Black sailor, statesman by citytiger

Wait he was Gullah!? Thats my family heritage I need to look into this

2

Gilamath t1_jbch8zv wrote

Yup. I try to spread the word because not only are so many people and groups hidden from the American people, but the reality of their heritages and ancestry culture are double-hidden. Folks with Gullah roots have a right to the knowledge

Smalls was fully bilingual, fluent in both English and Gullah-Geechee. His English was key to his success in advocating for himself (something he had to do throughout his entire life just to get a fraction of what he deserved) and for others. His Gullah let him formulate and share his elaborate escape plan with fellow Gullah conscripted slaves, and helped him rally a strong Gullah base of support when he ran for Congressional office during Reconstruction

I'm afraid that's all I really know, I don't have any lived experience on the matter. His mother was Lydia Smalls, according to this source that Wikipedia links to, if that helps with tracing Smalls' kin. If you end up talking to a genealogist or anything like that, lemme know if you find something interesting!

8

Passion724 t1_jbchu52 wrote

I have family that do tours and such on history in St Helena Island. My grandmother was born on the island and My mom will love this info thank you so much! Its been awhile since I’ve been back but you’ve ignited a spark for me to do a deep dive on my family history.

6