research – DeKalb County, Tennessee Genealogy Association

Remembering Alexandria’s Civil War Past: A Tale of Two Colonels

Divided by war, united in memory—Alexandria’s Civil War story lives on through Confederate and Union leaders buried side by side, freed communities rising in Cedar Hill, and a young W.E.B. Du Bois teaching nearby.

A Glimpse into the Life of William Robinson Crook

In the rolling hills of DeKalb County, Tennessee, on a spring day in 1839, William Robinson Crook entered the world. Born to Robinson Crook and Selena Delia Etheridge, William was one of several children in a family rooted in the American South. His siblings included Sarah Frances, Malinda J., Mary Elizabeth, Mathew, Tilmon, Henry Washington, Delilah Elender, and Jeremiah.

Genealogical Advantages of Union Civil War Pension Files

The journey of genealogy research often led to undervalued records like land deed index books, homestead files, and Supreme Court Cases files. The Union Civil War Pension file stood out due to its wealth of information. Challenges in obtaining these files were overcome with private companies. Civil War pension files provided clarity on family identities and helped to validate genealogical standards. Confederate soldier records pose more challenges due to survival rates. Research efforts are also focused on obtaining Civil War tombstones.

The Diary of “Preacher Dave” Taylor

A few weeks back, Darrell Spencer shared with us a copy of the transcription he completed of the diary of his ancestor, Rev. David Taylor. The diary, purchased in 1904, contains the names and dates of births, deaths, and tragic events in and around DeKalb County that he was aware of. It also appears that he transcribed notes from earlier diaries into the new one, including family events in the time frame from 1851 into the last 1930s.

Welcome!

A few weeks back, someone approached the Facebook group asking if there was a First Families program, and there was neither one nor a genealogy association in Dekalb. I realized we need a first families program, as there are so many incredible stories, so sure, let’s create one.