by Nettie Algenia Reaties (Author)

Via DNA testing, there are thousands of identifiable relatives of the Reaties family all over the world. Too bad we are so far removed we are unable to celebrate, recognize fame. With that said, this book is a compilation of stories of the Alabama to South Carolina branch. This project is a small effort to let the world know that we are here, we are proud, we are united even if distance keeps us apart. The stories reflect life and times of predecessors up through recent Reaties family antics. Most are outlines of facts regarding our forebearers and the impact their 'happenings' had on much of family, friends, community. This is a chronicle of stories shared via family events - reunions, births, funerals. A documentation of life before our remaining elders - who were there - transition from this earth and distinguish this family's roots from others. Sadly, as with most African Americans, our histories are mostly oral, rarely documented and generally unverifiable. But by documenting our stories, we are assuring an inclusive rendering of life in at least African American family. This compilation of stories has established basic truths - we lived, we survived, thrived, we are still here - proud, united, and determined to share what is known of our remaining legacy. The legacy left behind by our ancestors was amazing! So, it is up to us newbies to carry forth our lives, loves and who we are because - our history matters!