Family History

It is somewhat difficult to think of the lives of two very religious and prosperous people as a history. It would be better to say that this is a testament of their lives that still survives mainly through the deeds of their children and children's children even today. The family did not begin with riches and prosperity, but hard work, prayers and strong determination, wrapped in an unshakable belief in God. The family was built upon a firm foundation, a strong rock upon which all of the descendants still stand. Elias was born in South Carolina, the son of slave parents. This man who was to be the forefather of the great multitude we have here today, came from a poor but hard working and religious family. It was in the church that he first met Sylvia Herrington, the woman who was to be his strength and companion for many years to come. Sylvia Herrington had a deeply religious background and the daughter of slave parents. Shortly after meeting Elias, they were united in holy matrimony. They began their lives together on a farm in Lee County, South Carolina. Together they tilled the soil and praised God. Elias was a man of many resources and he and others banded together to form what is now known as Unionville African Methodist Episcopal Church near St. Charles in Lee County, South Carolina. A fitting monument for such a great person. From the blessed union of these two people came eight offsprings; five boys and three girls. God saw fit to take Sylvia away from the family while the children were still young but, Elias raised them to adulthood never failing as a father, provider and teacher. He instilled in his children a deep respect for the love of God that has remained strong and has been carried from generation to generation. All offspring are now deceased, but many of their descendants are with us today.