Heritage

Legacy Planted: 70 Years of the Summerall Family in Baxley  

By Billy G. Howard

   As the vibrant spirit of Baxley prepares to mark another significant milestone, a particular celebration stands out this year: the 70th anniversary of the annual Summerall Family Gathering. For seven decades, descendants of Jack and Mariah Summerall have converged upon our beloved city, transforming a family reunion into a powerful testament to endurance, faith, and the unbreakable bonds of kinship.

   This series of columns spanning the next several weeks will delve into the rich history of the Summerall family, exploring how their journey intertwines with the very fabric of Baxley—from their humble beginnings to their remarkable contributions to our community.

   The story begins long before the first reunion in 1956. It starts with Jack and Mariah, our revered ancestors, who were enslaved and lived in Appling County, Georgia. Their lives, undoubtedly marked by immense hardship, were also defined by an extraordinary capacity for resilience and hope.

   They were given the name “Summerall” by their enslaver, David Summerall, unknowingly bestowing upon their future generations a name that would become synonymous with strength and unity.

   What Jack and Mariah built from the ashes of slavery is nothing short of miraculous. Fresh out of bondage, they not only acquired land and built homes but also laid the spiritual and communal groundwork for a thriving family.

Jack, notably, was a man of letters who could read and write—a rare and precious skill for an enslaved person. This ability positioned him to become a pivotal figure in the post-emancipation Black community of Appling County.

   In 1872, just seven years after the Civil War, Jack and Mariah were instrumental in establishing Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church—the very place where the Summerall family gathers today. Jack Summerall served as the church’s first clerk, a role that underscores his literacy, leadership, and unwavering commitment to faith.

This church, alongside other self-established places of worship, became the cornerstone of a burgeoning free Black community, offering spiritual solace, educational opportunities, and a vital social hub in the nascent Jim Crow South. 

   The annual Summerall Family Gathering, initiated in 1955 and first held in Baxley in 1956, was born from a desire to preserve this incredible legacy. It was an intentional act of remembrance and connection, ensuring that the sacrifices and triumphs of Jack and Mariah—and their children like Rosa, Abbie, and Mattie, who remained in Appling County—would never be forgotten.

   From a small gathering conceived in Norwalk, Connecticut, by cousins like Samuel Summerall and Beatrice Sharpe-Stevens (daughter of Abbie), it has blossomed into an event drawing hundreds of relatives from across twenty states.

   As we reflect on these 70 years, we are not just celebrating a family; we are celebrating a testament to the human spirit. The Summeralls’ journey from enslavement to becoming pillars of the Baxley community is a powerful narrative of faith, resilience, and the enduring power of family bonds.

It’s a story woven into the very fabric of Baxley, and one that continues to inspire. In the columns to follow, we will explore the specific contributions and enduring spirit of this remarkable family. I could be wrong, but it’s just something to consider.

To pose a question, comment, or share your opinion about this opinion, you can reach Howard at bg@authorbghoward.com or 

P. O. Box 8103, Jacksonville, FL 32239.

Roots of Resilience: Jack and Mariah’s Enduring Foundation 

By Billy G. Howard

  As Baxley anticipates the 70th Summerall Family Gathering, our focus turns to the remarkable genesis of this enduring lineage: Jack and Mariah Summerall. Their story is not just the beginning of a family tree; it is a profound testament to resilience, adaptability, and the extraordinary human capacity to forge a future from the most challenging past. Born into enslavement, their lives illustrate the immense strength required to not only survive but to lay a foundation for generations to thrive. 

   Purchased between 1825 and 1830 in Louisville, Georgia, and brought to Appling County, Jack and Mariah were likely in their mid-teens. The cruel economics of slavery often meant such purchases were made with the hope of increasing human property through procreation. Yet, within this dehumanizing system, Jack and Mariah found a way to cultivate a partnership, possibly even a marriage, that would withstand the horrors of their bondage. While it’s noted that Mariah’s name doesn’t appear on the Ten Mile Creek Baptist Church roll with Jack and their daughter Abbie, suggesting she might have been located elsewhere, their union nevertheless bore fruit: seventeen children, eleven of whom are known to the family. This prodigious family, built against incredible odds, underscores their profound commitment to continuity and survival. 

   The end of the Civil War in 1865 brought emancipation, but not immediate freedom from the lingering shadows of slavery. For Jack and Mariah, stepping into a world that was ostensibly free yet rife with systemic barriers, the challenge was immense. They faced the daunting task of acquiring land, building home and navigating a society fundamentally opposed to their full autonomy. Their success in this endeavor, in securing property and establishing a stable home, speaks volumes about their determination and foresight. They embodied the spirit of self-reliance that would become a hallmark of the Summerall family. 

   Crucially, Jack Summerall’s literacy stands out as an exceptional achievement and a powerful tool for self-determination. In an era where education for enslaved people was often forbidden, his ability to read and write was a rare and strategic advantage. This skill was not merely for personal enlightenment; it was put to direct use in community building. As the first clerk of Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church, founded in 1872, Jack used his literacy to establish and maintain records, providing structure and legitimacy to this vital institution. The church itself, organized just seven years after the Civil War, was a deliberate act of collective agency by former enslaved people, seeking spiritual independence and a communal gathering place. 

   Mariah, living to the remarkable age of 103, passing away in 1923, was a living bridge to an unimaginable past. Her longevity meant she witnessed the profound transformations of Appling County from the antebellum era through Reconstruction and well into the Jim Crow period. Her memory, if shared, would have been an invaluable repository of family and community history. While Jack’s death date is not recorded, their combined legacy is undeniable. 

   The tenacity of Jack and Mariah, their ability to navigate extreme adversity, secure their footing, and establish institutions like Thankful New Jersey Baptist Church, created a bedrock for future generations. Their commitment to family and community, forged in the crucible of post slavery America, provided the essential roots for the sprawling Summerall family tree we celebrate today. Their story reminds us that even from the most barren ground, a powerful and enduring legacy can be planted. I could be wrong but it’s just something to consider. 

To pose a question, comment, or share your opinion about this opinion, you can reach Howard at bg@authorbghoward.com or 

P. O. Box 8103, Jacksonville, FL 32239.

From Emancipation to Enterprise:
The Summeralls’ Drive for Self- 

Sufficiency   By Billy G. Howard

  As we continue our exploration of the Summerall family’s history in anticipation of their 70th annual gathering in Baxley, we move beyond their foundational resilience to examine their remarkable drive for enterprise and self-sufficiency in the challenging decades following emancipation. The transition from slavery to freedom was not merely a change in legal status; it was a profound shift demanding resourcefulness, economic ingenuity, and unwavering determination. The Summeralls, exemplified by Jack and Mariah and their immediate descendants, rose to this challenge, carving out a space for themselves in a society still actively resisting their advancement.

   One of the most significant indicators of their post slavery progress is the acquisition of land and homes. For formerly enslaved people, land ownership was the ultimate symbol of true freedom and a pathway to economic independence, often achieved against tremendous odds. The fact that the Summerall family not only built homes but accumulated property, as evidenced by the mention of James Henry Gibbs, a son-in-law of Rosa McNeil, owning his own home and “quite a little amount of property,” speaks volumes about their work ethic and strategic planning. This was not merely about shelter; it was about building generational wealth and securing a tangible stake in the community.

   The family’s deep connection to Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church, founded in 1872 with Jack Summerall as its first clerk, also highlights a form of collective enterprise. Beyond its spiritual role, the church served as a crucial community hub. It was a place for organizing, for mutual aid, and for the dissemination of information. In an era when Black communities faced systemic exclusion from mainstream institutions, their own churches became vital centers of social and economic life, fostering networks that facilitated self-sufficiency. The family’s ongoing commitment to this church, where Billy G. Howard ‘Columnist’ annual gatherings are still held, underscores its foundational importance.

   The narrative reveals how deeply embedded the Summeralls were in the local economy and social structure. While specific professions beyond Jack’s role as a church clerk are not detailed for the earliest generations, the general statement that “There is no profession that we do not operate in” for the modern Summerall family suggests a historical trajectory of economic diversification. This would have involved agricultural pursuits, skilled trades, and eventually, professional careers, all contributing to the family’s upward mobility.

   The individual achievements within the family further illustrate this entrepreneurial spirit. Birdie McNeil, Rosa’s youngest child, stands out as a pioneering figure. Her attendance at Georgia State College (now Savannah State University) was a monumental achievement for a Black woman in the early 20th century, representing an investment in human capital that would pay dividends. Her subsequent success as a businesswoman, owning her own beauty parlor, demonstrates both her personal drive and her contribution to the economic landscape of Baxley’s Black community. These beauty parlors were not just businesses; they were social centers and places of empowerment for Black women.

Even the simple act of welcoming family to the Comas Street home, providing “a quick meal and a moment of rest,” speaks to a culture of resourcefulness and communal support that facilitated travel and connection, essential for family unity. This inherent hospitality was another form of enterprise – the enterprise of nurturing kin and maintaining vital family bonds.

   The Summeralls’ journey from emancipation to establishing themselves as landowners, church founders, and successful professionals is a powerful narrative of ambition and achievement against a backdrop of systemic racial discrimination. Their self-sufficiency wasn’t just about personal gain; it was about building a foundation for collective uplift. As we celebrate 70 years of their gathering, we recognize that their legacy is not just one of survival, but of active, determined, and successful enterprise that has profoundly shaped Baxley. I could be wrong but it’s just something to consider. 

To pose a question, comment, or share your opinion about this opinion, you can reach  reach Howard at bg@authorbghoward.com or 

P. O. Box 8103, Jacksonville, FL 32239.

Matriarchal Strength: The Indomitable Spirit of Summerall Women

By Billy. G. Howard
 

   As the countdown to the 70th Summerall Family Gathering continues, our series illuminates another profound aspect of their enduring legacy: the extraordinary matriarchal strength that has woven through generations of Summerall women. From Mariah herself to her daughters, granddaughters, and beyond, these women have been the resilient anchors, the nurturing forces, and the quiet pioneers who have ensured the family’s survival, cohesion, and advancement against tremendous odds.

   Mariah Summerall stands as the quintessential matriarch. Purchased as a teenager, she endured the unimaginable brutality of slavery and gave birth to seventeen children. Her sheer physical and emotional endurance laid the groundwork for the sprawling family tree we celebrate today. Her longevity, living to the remarkable age of 103 and passing in 1923, meant she was a living testament to the family’s journey from bondage to freedom. Her presence, deeply revered, would have been a constant reminder of their origins and the strength it took to overcome. The memory of her requesting her great-granddaughter, Esther, to massage her legs and comb her hair at the Comas Street home paints a vivid picture of a beloved elder, cherished and cared for within the family she so robustly established.

   Her daughter, Rosa Summerall McNeil, embodies this matriarchal spirit in the Billy G. Howard ‘Columnist’ personal joy and profound sorrow. She married Jiles McNeil and bore six children, yet twice took on the immense responsibility of raising grandchildren after early losses: Willie Mae McNeil Ivory, after her mother’s death in childbirth, and Robert McNeil, after his mother Estella’s illness and passing. When her daughter Senella and son-in-law James Henry Gibbs died tragically within a week of each other in 1912, Rosa, already a grandmother, moved into the “big house” at 402 Comas Street to raise her youngest child, Birdie, alongside her orphaned grandchildren. This act of unwavering commitment transformed the Comas Street address into a nurturing hub, a safe haven where generations found solace and support under her watchful care.

   The impact of Rosa’s nurturing extended beyond her direct lineage. The Comas Street house became the “first and last stop” for “The sisters” – Abbie’s daughters – when they visited Baxley, reinforcing its role as a central gathering point for the wider Summerall family.

   Then there is Birdie McNeil, Rosa’s youngest child, who stands as a powerful example of intellectual and economic independence. Birdie was the first in her generation to attend college at Georgia State College (now Savannah State University), breaking barriers and setting a new standard for educational attainment. But she didn’t stop there. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to become a successful businesswoman, owning her own beauty parlor right next door to the Comas Street home. She was also the dedicated pianist for Thankful New Jersey Baptist Church, demonstrating her commitment to both economic self-sufficiency and spiritual community. Aunt Birdie’s continuous welcome, providing “quick meals and a moment of rest” for visiting cousins, showcases her embodiment of the family’s tradition of hospitality and unity. 

   Another example of the entrepreneurial spirit of the Summerall women is Merle Stevens, the granddaughter of Abbie and daughter of Beatrice Summerall Stevens (initiator of the Summerall gatherings) who owned and operated a hair salon in Savannah, GA for many years.

   The very initiation of the Summerall Family Gathering in 1955 was heavily influenced by the women. Beatrice Sharpe-Stevens, daughter of Abbie Summerall-Sharpe and granddaughter of Jack and Mariah, was elected the first president of the Family Gathering. Alongside her sister Polly Ogden (who lived to be 106!) and other Summerall sisters like Lula Porter-Williamson, Chelsey Williams, Isabelle SharpeGordon, and Viola Sharpe-McMillan, these women worked tirelessly to promote and ensure the success of the gathering, solidifying the importance of family ties. 

   The Summerall women, through resilience in the face of unimaginable hardship, their nurturing of children and grandchildren, pursuit of education and economic independence, and leadership in fostering family unity, have been truly indomitable. Their strength, compassion, and foresight have not only preserved the Summerall legacy but actively propelled it forward, making them the silent, yet powerful, architects of this remarkable 70-year journey. I could be wrong but it’s just something to consider. 

To pose a question, comment, or share your opinion about this opinion, you can reach Howard at bg@authorbghoward.com or 

P. O. Box 8103, Jacksonville, FL 32239.

Turbulent Times, Steadfast Values: 

The Summeralls Through Periods of Change

By Billy. G. Howard

   As we near the grand 70th celebration of the Summerall Family Gathering, this column reflects on a particularly profound aspect of their incredible journey: the family’s steadfast values in navigating and enduring through some of the most turbulent periods in American history.  From the immediate aftermath of the Civil War and the oppressive Jim Crow era to the challenges of two World Wars and the Great Depression, the Summeralls demonstrated an unwavering commitment to core principles that not only ensured their survival but allowed them to thrive and contribute to the growth and stability of the Baxley/Appling County community.

   The very foundation of the Summerall family was forged in the crucible of slavery and emancipation.  Jack and Mariah's lives spanned from forced bondage to the dawn of freedom.  The tumultuous period of Reconstruction (1865-1877), intended to rebuild the South and integrate formerly enslaved people, quickly gave way to the brutal reality of the Jim Crow era.  This system of segregation, disenfranchisement, and racial violence dominated the South for nearly a century.  For the Summeralls living in rural Appling County, this meant facing systemic discrimination in every aspect of life – education, employment, justice, and social mobility.  Yet, it was precisely during these times that their values of faith, family unity, and self-reliance shone the brightest.

   Their immediate response to freedom was not merely survival, but the proactive building of institutions.  The establishment of Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church in 1872, with Jack Summerall as its first clerk, was a direct testament to their resolve.  This act of spiritual self-determination provided a sanctuary and a vital community center, demonstrating that even in the face of profound adversity their faith remained an unshakeable anchor.  This church became a place where values were taught, reinforced, and lived out, offering stability amidst the external chaos.

   The family’s emphasis on acquiring land and building homeswas another powerful statement of steadfastness.  In a society that sought to keep Black citizens economically dependent, owning property was a radical act of self-possession and a tangible assertion of their rights.  Figures like James Henry Gibbs, husband of Rosa's daughter Senella, who "owned his own home and had accumulated quite a little amount of property," illustrate this deep commitment to establishing an economic base against all odds.  This provided not just shelter, but a sense of belonging and a foundation for future generations.

   The tragedies and responsibilities faced by Rosa Summerall McNeil exemplify the family's resilience in turbulent personal times.  Her taking on the raising of Willie Mae McNeil Ivory, her son Robert McNeil, and her own youngest child Birdie, after the untimely deaths of their parents or her own daughter, speaks volumes about the unwavering commitment to family care.  The Comas Street home, under Rosa's matriarchal guidance, became a steadfast haven through these personal storms.

   Even global conflicts echoed in Baxley.  The service of Uncle Dave and Uncle Levy McNeil in World War I demonstrates their commitment to a nation that often denied them their full rights. Their willingness to serve, even under segregation, reflects a deep sense of duty and patriotism; values held even when the times were turbulent.

   The continuous annual Summerall Family Gathering itself, initiated in the mid-20th century, is a profound act of defiance against the forces that sought to divide and diminish Black families.  It is a recurring affirmation of their identity, their history, and their unbreakable bonds, steadfastly maintained for 70 years.

   The Summeralls’ journey through turbulent times is a powerful narrative of unyielding values.  Their faith provided comfort and direction, their commitment to family fostered unity and mutual support, and their drive for self-reliance built an economic foundation.  These principles, passed down through generations, are not merely historical facts; they are the living legacy that continues to define the Summerall family and inspire the community of Baxley today. I could be wrong but it’s just something to consider.

To pose a question, comment, or share your opinion about this opinion, you can reach B. G. Howard at bg@authorbghoward.com or 

P. O. Box 8103, Jacksonville, FL 32239.

Comas Street Cornerstone

By Billy. G. Howard

   As Baxley prepares to mark a momentous 70 years, the story of the Summerall family—Jack and Mariah, and their descendants—is not merely one of personal milestones, but of deep and abiding community involvement. Their journey through seven decades has been inextricably linked with the growth, challenges, and triumphs of Baxley itself. This column reflects on the various ways the Summeralls have built bridges within our city, fostering connections and leaving an indelible mark on the collective spirit.

   From the earliest days, the Summeralls understood that a strong family needed to be rooted in a strong community. Jack, with his characteristic pragmatism and Mariah, with her boundless compassion, set a precedent for active participation that has resonated through generations. While their individual contributions might have varied—from civic organizations and local governance to church groups and school initiatives—the underlying principle remained constant: to contribute meaningfully to the fabric of Baxley.

   Consider the countless hours likely dedicated to various town councils, zoning boards, or planning committees. It's in these often unsung roles that the foundational work of a town is done, and it's highly probable that a Summerall, at some point, lent their voice and their time to shape the physical and social landscape of Baxley. Their presence would have ensured that decisions were made with an eye toward both progress and the preservation of the town's unique character.

   Beyond formal roles, the Summeralls' influence extended into the very heart of community life. Were they involved in the creation of local festivals, fundraisers for vital services, or efforts to beautify public spaces? It’s almost certain. Their commitment would have been evident in the everyday acts of good neighborliness, in lending a hand during times of need, and in celebrating collective achievements. This kind of grassroots involvement is the bedrock of a thriving community, fostering a sense of shared ownership and mutual support.

   Dr. Areatha Virgil descended from the Abbie Summerall lineage and the great granddaughter of Sulah Whiten.  She served as principal of Appling County Elementary School and received commendations from the state in 2013 for raising the achievement of students.  Following her tenure as principal, she served two terms on the Appling County school board.  Nell Byrd, a great granddaughter of Abbie Sharpe was the first female police officer in Baxley. She started as a dispatcher and worked her way through the ranks, retiring in 2012 after 25 years of service.

   Their philanthropic spirit, whether through direct donations or by galvanizing others to contribute, would also have played a crucial role in supporting local charities and initiatives.  This isn't always about grand gestures; often, it's the consistent, quiet support that sustains vital organizations and ensures no one in the community is left behind.

   The Summeralls’ legacy in Baxley is a testament to the power of committed individuals and families to shape their surroundings for the better. They didn't just live in Baxley; they actively participated in its construction, its nurturing, and its defense. Their story reminds us that the health and vitality of a community are direct reflections of the engagement of its citizens.

   As we look forward to the 70th celebration, let us not only honor the Summerall family for their personal journey but also for their profound and enduring impact on the community we all call home. Their dedication to building bridges—between people, generations, and institutions—serves as an inspiring blueprint for the future of Baxley. I could be wrong, but it’s just something to consider.

To pose a question, comment, or share your opinion about this opinion, you can reach B. G. Howard at bg@authorbghoward.com or 

P. O. Box 8103, Jacksonville, FL 32239.

Educational Pursuits and Pioneering Spirits: A Legacy of Learning

By Billy G. Howard

   As the 70th annual Summerall Family Gathering draws near, our series continues to explore the multi-faceted legacy of Jack and Mariah Summerall, bringing into focus their descendants’ remarkable commitment to education and their pioneering spirit. In a post-slavery America, where access to education for African Americans was systematically denied or severely limited, the pursuit of knowledge became a powerful act of defiance, a pathway to empowerment, and a cornerstone for generational advancement.

   The very first hint of this commitment to learning begins with Jack Summerall himself. The fact that he "could read and write" was an extraordinary achievement for someone born into slavery. This rare skill was not merely for personal use; it directly facilitated his role as the first clerk of Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church, founded in 1872. His literacy allowed him to record minutes, manage church affairs, and provide essential structure to this vital community institution. Jack’s ability was a clear signal to his descendants that education was a key to leadership and community building.

   This foundational value blossomed in subsequent generations. The family narrative proudly highlights Birdie McNeil, Rosa Summerall McNeil's youngest child, as a true pioneer. Birdie was the first in her family to attend college, enrolling at Georgia State College, which is now known as Savannah State University. This was a monumental step for a Black woman in the early 20th century. Attending college meant overcoming significant racial and economic barriers, and her achievement undoubtedly inspired those who followed. Birdie's pursuit of higher education was a testament to her intellect and determination, setting a precedent for academic excellence within the Summerall lineage.

   But Birdie's pioneering spirit didn't stop with her college degree. She channeled her education into practical enterprise, becoming a successful businesswoman who owned her own beauty salon. This was an act of economic self-sufficiency and community service, providing essential services while building capital within her community. Her dual roles as a college graduate and a successful entrepreneur underscored the family's holistic approach to advancement – education was meant to be applied, to better oneself and one's community.

   The family's continuous pursuit of diverse professions, as noted in the collective statement "There is no profession that we do not operate in," further exemplifies this legacy of learning and pioneering. From military service, as seen with Uncle Dave and Uncle Levy McNeil in World War I, to the various roles family members now hold across twenty different states, each achievement builds upon the foundational value of education and the courage to break new ground.

   The very act of gathering annually, as the Summerall family has done for 70 years, is also an informal act of education. It’s a time for elders to share stories, for younger generations to connect with their roots, and for the collective history to be passed down. This intergenerational sharing ensures that the lessons of resilience, faith, and the importance of striving are continually reinforced.

The Summerall family’s history in Baxley is not just about survival; it's about persistent striving and groundbreaking achievement. Their unwavering commitment to education, from Jack’s early literacy to Birdie’s attainment of her college degree and beyond, has been a driving force behind their remarkable success. As we celebrate the family’s 70th gathering, we honor not only their pioneering spirits but also the profound legacy of learning that continues to empower and uplift every generation of the Summerall family. I could be wrong but it’s just something to consider.

To pose a question, comment, or share your opinion about this opinion, you can reach B. G. Howard at bg@authorbghoward.com or P. O. Box 8103, Jacksonville, FL 32239.

Echoes of the Past, Voices of the Present: The Summerall Legacy in Modern Baxley

By Billy G. Howard

   As the countdown to the 70th Summerall Family Gathering reaches its penultimate stage, our reflections turn from the historical foundations to the vibrant ways in which the Summerall legacy resonates in modern Baxley. The sacrifices, achievements, and unwavering spirit of Jack and Mariah, their children like Abbie, Rosa, and subsequent generations are not confined to history books; they are living, breathing elements shaping the community we know today. This column explores how the enduring values instilled over decades manifest in the contemporary contributions of the Summerall family here at home.

   The presence of "at least two hundred family members living in Appling County with many others who have returned to Appling County after retirement" is a powerful testament to the magnetic pull of home and heritage. During an age when families often disperse far and wide, the Summeralls' continued rootedness in Baxley speaks volumes. It signifies a profound connection to the land, the church, and the community that their ancestors meticulously built from the ground up. These individuals are not just residents; they are inheritors of a deep civic tradition, active participants in local life, and living repositories of family history.

   The sheer scale of the annual gathering itself—that saw "more than five hundred people in attendance" from "approximately twenty different states" for the 60th Diamond Jubilee in 2015—is a remarkable phenomenon. This consistent migration back to Baxley, year after year, underscores the enduring strength of the family bond and the success of the founding vision laid out by cousins like Beatrice Sharpe-Stevens and Samuel Summerall. This event is a significant economic and social boom for Baxley, bringing visitors, infusing local businesses, and showcasing our town's welcoming spirit to a national audience. It transforms Baxley, however briefly, into a vibrant hub of reconnection and celebration. During the Summerall Gathering all hotels in Baxley are typically booked and have a spillover effect in surrounding towns. The business community surely calculates the Summerall Gathering into their projections for annual earnings, thus, making a tremendous contribution to the overall economy of Baxley and Appling County.

   Beyond the annual gathering, the values instilled by Jack and Mariah continue to ripple throughout the present-day lives of Summerall descendants. The emphasis on education, championed by pioneers like Birdie McNeil attending Georgia State College, and the many Summeralls that also pursued upwards to Masters degrees, PhDs, Ed.Ds, and became medical doctors, attorneys, and judges. They continue to inspire younger generations to pursue higher learning and professional careers. This commitment to intellectual growth ensures that Summerall family members contribute to various fields, bringing their talents and expertise back to, or in support of, communities like Baxley. The dedication to Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church remains a crucial thread. The church, founded by Jack and Mariah, is not merely a historic landmark, but a functioning spiritual center that continues to be a focal point for family members and the larger community. This ongoing engagement maintains the spiritual and communal bedrock that has sustained the family for generations.

   The Summeralls were "reared to believe and trust in God and taught the importance of family." This core philosophy, emphasized throughout their history, is evident in the tangible sense of community, mutual support, and fellowship that defines the family. It is a living example of how foundational values, passed down through nine generations, continue to shape behaviors and relationships, creating a strong internal network that also benefits the external community.

   In essence, the Summerall family provides a compelling narrative for Baxley as a whole. Their story of overcoming adversity, building community, fostering education, and maintaining deep-seated values serves as a powerful source of local pride and inspiration. They are a testament to the enduring power of heritage and the vital role that engaged families play in the prosperity and identity of a town.

   As Baxley reflects on its own 70 years, the Summerall family’s continuous presence, their annual homecoming, and the quiet contributions of their descendants serve as a vibrant reminder that the echoes of the past are very much the voices of the present, enriching the tapestry of our beloved town. I could be wrong but it’s just something to consider.

To pose a question, comment, or share your opinion about this opinion, you can reach B. G. Howard at bg@authorbghoward.com or 

P. O. Box 8103, Jacksonville, FL 32239.

A Living Legacy: The Summerall Family's Future in Baxley

By Billy G. Howard

   As echoes of the 70th Summerall Family Gathering begin to fade, leaving behind a renewed sense of shared heritage, this final column remembers, not just the past, but the vibrant future of this remarkable family’s enduring relationship with Baxley. The journey of Jack and Mariah Summerall, from their purchase two centuries ago to the sprawling, vibrant family of today, is a profound testament to resilience. It's a living legacy continuing to shape and enrich our community.

   The core message embedded in the Summerall story is one of unwavering strength in the face of adversity. Fresh out of slavery, they acquired land and raised families. Isabell Sharpe Gordon, granddaughter of Mariah (Abbie Summerall Sharpe’s daughter), purchased 10 acres of land “across the pond” in 1928, with her children. Her eldest son, Emanuel (Manning) Williams, following the tradition of his mother and ancestors, bought over 100 acres, making him the largest Black land owner in Baxley. He gave each of his 13 children 10 acres, which they continued to farm.  Some children, like David Williams, also bought large parcels of land.

   The annual gathering, now a 70-year tradition, is far more than just a reunion; it's a powerful act of collective memory and continuous reaffirmation of identity.  It honors the vision, foresight, and ingenuity of Mariah’s daughter, Beatrice.  By gathering, the family preserves its history; passing down names, dates, values, and lessons learned from their ancestors' extraordinary lives.  This active remembrance is a vital component of a healthy community, connecting its present to a meaningful past.

   The Summeralls’ commitment to Baxley remains tangible; with hundreds residing in Appling County and others returning after retirement, their roots here run deep.  This presence signifies an on-going investment in the city's future through civic participation, economic contributions, and the fabric of life.  The family’s enduring connection to Thankful New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church, the place Jack and Mariah helped establish, underscores a spiritual and communal anchoring that continues to uplift and sustain.

   Jack and Mariah Summerall are surely proud of their descendants with many embracing diverse professions in the health care industry from medical doctors, nurses, assistants, and administrators.  Ruth T. Barron wrote in “Footprints in Appling County 1818–1978”, Aunt Polly (as she was affectionately known) was licensed as one of the few midwives in Baxley during 1939.  She retired in 1968, having delivered 301 babies without losing a mother.  Governor Lawton Chiles of Florida visited Aunt Polly in Miami (where she lived with her daughter Louise) on her 100thbirthday in 1992.

   The Summerall family can boast of judges, attorneys, professional entertainers, musicians and athletes.  Grammy nominated, Kersten Stevens, the offspring of Beatrice Summerall Stevens, is a world renowned violinist. Michael Timpson, who played in the NFL for the New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, and Philadelphia Eagles, is the grandson of Polly Ogden and great grandson of Abbie.  

   Entrepreneurship has always been a trend in the Summerall family and others have inundated the educational field ranging from school administrators to aides, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, and cooks while some have continued the noble profession of farming. 

   As Baxley looks ahead, the Summerall family stands as a shining example of what it means to truly build and sustain a community.  In that spirit, the Summerall’s created the Jack Summerall Community Center Corp. in 1999 to provide support services to the local community.  Their story is a reminder that the bonds of family, fortified by faith, education, and shared purpose, can create a legacy that transcends generations and enriches an entire region.  Their journey encourages us all to embrace our heritage, strengthen connections, and contribute to the collective good.

   The Summerall Family Gathering is not just a celebration of the past 70 years; it’s a vibrant promise for the future…a living, breathing testament to the enduring power of family, strength of faith, and the profound impact one lineage can have on the soul of a community. Their legacy will continue to inspire Baxley for another 70 years and beyond.  I could be wrong but it’s just something to consider.

To pose a question, comment, or share your opinion about this opinion, you can reach B. G. Howard at bg@authorbghoward.com or 

P. O. Box 8103, Jacksonville, FL 32239.