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Oral Histories

The Reynolds Homestead Oral History Project preserves and shares the voices of those whose lives and family histories are connected to Rock Spring Plantation.

Through recorded interviews with descendants of the enslaved community, local residents, and others with deep ties to this place, we seek to tell a fuller story of the land and the people who shaped it.

Here you can watch video clips highlighting personal reflections and lived experiences, as well as access complete interviews as they become available.

Thelma Reynolds Hairston

Granddaughter of Ida Penn Reynolds, who was born enslaved on the Rock Spring Plantation.

VIDEO CLIP: A story about slavery passed down from her father.

Vera Smith Reynolds

Descendant of an enslaved tobacco factory worker at the Rock Spring Plantation.

VIDEO CLIP: First day at a desegregated school and shopping as a child.
VIDEO CLIP: What researching her ancestors has meant to her.
WATCH FULL INTERVIEW

Demris Lillian Penn Manns

Great-great-granddaughter of Ida Penn Reynolds.

VIDEO CLIP: Ida Penn Reynolds served as a midwife.


Would you like to share your family's story? Contact Julie Walters Steele to learn more.