The Moncure family

The Moncure family tree in possession of the white side of the family branched off in the fourth generation with “gone to Mississippi.” It is in Mississippi that the black side of the family is centered. Recently the black and white sides of the family found each other through the investigations of family members on both sides who were interested in genealogy. Upon the urging of a white Moncure, who suggested that the family come "home," the black Moncures held their annual family reunion in Virginia and invited the white Moncures who also helped with organizing the event. Looking at the missing branch, one of the white Moncures said, “they cut off that branch, but you’re not cut off anymore.” However, not all of the white Moncures are happy with this connection and what it implies about their ancestors.

Patricia: When I started, my major goal was to try to connect seven branches of my Moncure family, the black ones, who didn’t know each other. My goal was to put something in documentation for my black family so that they would have a sense of value, of who they were. And we always knew we were connected to the white Moncures; whether there was acceptance of it or not on the white side, we knew they existed. I wanted to make sure they really know.

Frances: Why would we not help Pat in her search? It is a wonderful, beautiful project. It hasn’t been our big driving interest but someone better support her, and it’s got to be a white person in Virginia of the Moncure family. I feel that I’ve met the commitment to hospitality that I insist upon from my family. And it feels good to reach out to the other side of the family.

Patricia: This Coming to the Table event is important because it brings together a bunch of passionate people. I see people who are passionate about making the right links and connections. I would love to meet with a group like this again. A couple of us were talking about even bringing all our families together. The most important thing to me is to encourage others to try to find people in their families. It’s a matter of identity – it’s a big piece of pride and love to identify these people and overcome our stereotypes. These were hard working, loving people; they had their own flaws but the one thing they believed in is family.

Frances: Someone from my family had to be here. If it’s only me, then it’s me. And I feel there must be so many other families that could do this.