Category Archives: Watkins

On the Farm – Week 37 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

From Farm to Table Back in earlier days, cuisine was determined by geography and climate. The spices, vegetables, and proteins that were readily available were used to develop unique flavor profiles that were handed down. Food preparation traditions and customs … Continue reading

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Working – Week 36 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

Old World and New World Sheriffs Several of my ancestors have held the position of sheriff, both in the old world and in the new world.  The role of sheriff, which is the oldest official post in England and Wales, … Continue reading

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School – Week 35 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

57 Years Flew By I loved school which is a good thing since I was in school for 57 continuous years. I was really fortunate to discover my passion early on. Learning was exciting. As a toddler, my mother allowed … Continue reading

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Character – Week 34 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

Character Transcends the Generations Character defines who we are. It is the real you. In Colonial America, “The roles men expected of women followed a strict guideline. Those guidelines kept women in certain boundaries. Women had no defined legal identity … Continue reading

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Tragedy – Week 33 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

The Shakespeare Connection William Shakespeare’s Henry V is a tragedy that’s classified as an historical play because it is based on true events including the Battle of Agincourt, 1415. Most people love a great underdog story and Shakespeare immortalized this … Continue reading

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Favorite Name – Week 31 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

Common or Unusual? The most popular name in my family tree is John. Then there is Stephen, Malcolm, Francis and Frances, Mary, and Sarah. Some of the more unusual women’s names in my tree are: Elvira, Orriminah, Otillia (nicknamed Tilly), … Continue reading

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Transportation – Week 28 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

Westward to Kansas, the Amazing Land of Opportunity I’m 12 years old. I’m old enough to join the cattle drive to Kansas. I can keep up with those older guys who are 23 or 24. I may not have all … Continue reading

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Free – Week 27 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

From Captured Scottish Loyalist to Indentured Servant to Landowner At 6’7″ with red hair, Ninian Beall was an imposing figure. He started out as a Scottish loyalist who was captured, became an indentured servant, and ended up as a major … Continue reading

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Groups – Week 25 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

More than Camaraderie The stars aligned when a particular group of teachers found themselves in the 300 building at Desert Springs Middle School during the early years of the school. The six of us became much more than colleagues or … Continue reading

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Father’s Day – Week 24 of 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

Family First My father, Billy Dean Watkins, was born April 1, 1930 in Henryetta, Oklahoma to Donald and Fanny Watkins. His brother, Donald Claud, was 3 years old. Shortly thereafter, Fanny followed her mother and brothers to California, leaving her … Continue reading

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