The above picture is a plaque that now hangs in the second floor of City Hall in Worcester, Massachusetts. The ceremony yesterday was charming and long overdue. As it states on the plaque, Charles E. Scott served as a City Councilor from 1918 to his death on 11 October 1938. Elected not by the tiny people of color population but instead by white, mostly European … Continue reading The Family Scott
Gilbert Walker was born into slavery in Maryland around 1817. Because he saved the life of his owner’s son Gilbert’s father was able to secure the freedom of Gilbert and his brother Allen. Gilbert and Allen made their way to freedom in Worcester, MA. By 1850, he was living and working in the city. He was a barber and had his own shop on Main … Continue reading Gilbert Walker
Abraham Toney was the eldest son of Margaret (Peggy) Romsor and Caesar Toney. He was born in February of 1762 on his parent’s farm in Upton, MA. He married Mary Harry from the Narragansett tribe on 12 Oct 1787. Only 4 years later, he married Hannah Chase in Upton. Abraham had at least two children – Susan and Alfred. Abraham’s father died between 1790 and … Continue reading Abraham Toney
Frank Scott was my great-grandmother Nellie’s brother. He died years before I was born so I never knew him. While researching Grama Nellie, I found her brothers – the middle brother was Frank. I don’t remember her ever speaking of her brothers. I asked my older relatives and they weren’t sure either. I tend to ask the same questions repeatedly so eventually one of my … Continue reading Frank Scott
Annie Kent was born about 1822 in Maryland, perhaps into slavery. Her given name was Nancy after her mother and her father was Samuel Kent. While living free in London Grove, Chester, Pennsylvania, she married Peter Bostic, a free Black man. The couple had at least two children, William born in 1838 and Mary born in 1842. By 1849, Annie was widowed and remarried to … Continue reading Annie Kent & Rachel Steemer
Today is the start of Black History Month. For each of the next 27 days, I will post a short article about Black history in my home town of Worcester, MA. Why? Because our ancestors are often forgotten or unknown and yet, they made a difference in all of our lives and in this city. See You Soon! Continue reading 28 Days of Black History in Worcester, MA
Cheryll Toney Holley 