I Am Digging It

Digging into our family history creates deep connections. Genealogy is about finding our roots. As we research our family tree, we realize how our lives are intertwined with the history of our great nation. My family history includes the Quillin family, the Ewing family, the McNair family, the Jones family, the Bridges family, the King family and the Hulsey family. It is an honor to share their family stories. Search each family name by clicking the labels on the bottom right side.

Sunday, November 23, 2025

A Book Gives A Soul To The Universe ~ Plato

Charles Franklin McNair Gave This Book to Ella Vermell King in 1902

This morning, just days before Thanksgiving, I'm feeling a deep gratitude for the people who built my foundation. It feels a bit overwhelming when I make a find that gives me pause to step back and realize the goodness of my ancestors. One such person was my Papa McNair.

I am preparing a personal household inventory, and I have finally gotten to the old books that I brought from my mother's home. Mother (Carolita Quillin Jones) was Charles Franklin McNair’s granddaughter. Among the several old Bibles that I documented, I came across this book. It was a book that was given to Ella King from Charles in 1902. They were married on 7 June 1903 in the Bethel Baptist Chapel in Moody, McLennan Co, Texas. He wrote on the inside page.

Frank McNair

Ella King

Anno Domini

1902

McLennon Co.

Texas.

The feel of the cover is like no other. It is a HARDBACK copy, yet the texture has a soft satiny feel. Unfortunately, the spine of the cover has detached from the book, but fortunately the pages are all still bound together with an intricate string stitching (could serve as a lesson on old time binding).

What made this so meaningful this morning was the information that I found when I began to research this book. It was written by Ella Wheeler Wilcox and first published in January 1901 by W. B. Conkey Company. This would be the copy that Papa gave Mama back in 1902. It speaks loudly to the hopes, dreams and desires that Charles had for his marriage to Ella.

The book explores happiness, success and the meaning of life. The author has an optimistic outlook on life. Her words are inspiring and comforting as she offers practical advice on living a fulfilling and meaningful life. She encourages readers to embrace their dreams; yet she offers solace and hope to those who are struggling.

There was a new release of this book in 2014 because the "scarce antiquarian book is a work of cultural importance. The publishing company is committed to protecting, preserving and promoting the world's literature."

I'm proud that my people were well read and educated and placed high priority on character and morals. It can't get any better than that. Thank you, Mama and Papa.