The Reeves Family Reunion was held July 18-20, 2008 in Ariton, AL, and it was hosted by S. and M. Reeves. The family reunion was made up of Reeves, Daniels, and McKenzie family members. Some came as far north as Detroit, MI, as far east as Baltimore, MD, as far west as Troy, AL and as far south as Wewahitchka, FL. The events and gatherings of all three days were held at the beautiful country home estate of Stacy and Murline. It was a gathering that we all would agree would not soon be forgotten.
Friday evening was Meet & Greet featuring a fantastic fish fry with all the fixings along with a lovely backyard pool party. A sizable number of family members were present. I understand that represented were Reeves, Daniels, and McKenzie family members. I want to personally thank Cousin Clara Gipson who represents one of the eldest Reeves descendants for being in attendance to help us keep up with who was who and how they were related to each other. We were shaded by a large stationary pavilion overlooking the pool as well as the large back patio of the home. Large standing fans were positioned so as to provide a cool breeze and to shoo flying insects away. There were plenty of chairs and tables to accommodate everyone.
Saturday was the Big Cookout. I would guess that there were over 150 people who attended this gathering. The food was served buffet style and included a smorgasbord of southern delights from barbecued chicken and ribs, collard greens, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, casseroles, corn-on-the-cob, apple pies, coconut pies, buttermilk pies, chocolate cake, pound cake, and ice cream. The weather was beautiful and sunny-not a cloud in the sky. The children gathered in the pool for more swimming while some their nervous parents looked on. Some children entertained themselves on the lawn with other backyard games. There was a talent show emceed by Stacy Reeves Jr. featuring youthful and older performers showcasing their talents through guitar music playing blues and gospel tunes, singing music from contemporary artist Rihanna, and singing traditional gospel songs. Recognition of the eldest family members was given and other announcements were made. Family members exchanged names and addresses, and I requested information from attendees so that I could include them in the family directory as well as for genealogical purposes. The cookout lasted for hours, and the food never ran out. Ralph Daniels announced that the next Reeves family reunion would be hosted by the Daniels in Ocala, FL in 2years! We are indeed looking forward to this next event in the beautiful state of Florida.
Sunday was brunch. Not as many family members attended this gathering because many I am told had to leave to start back on their journey home. The brunch was attended by a small number of family members and featured southern breakfast favorites. After the brunch, I was taken on a tour of the home of the late Addie Reeves by J. (Jimmy) Lewis, and I was accompanied by two of the Daniels brothers who explained that they remember visiting this house many times as children. The home is located in the heart of downtown Ariton which resembles an abandoned one horse town with so many vacant and ru-down buildings. No one lives in her home, but surprisingly, the power and water are still turned on. The home was rustic but neat and well-maintained. I've visited the home of the late Martin Luther King, and this home reminded me of this experience. I almost thought that I should be wearing white gloves. It was not fancy in the manner you might be thinking, I'd decribe it as peaceful and somber. The home has a living room, kitchen, two bedrooms, a pantry/back storage area, and a bathroom. The floors are blanketed in multi-colored dated carpet, and the home is decorated in antiquated furnishings. The two beds are neatly made up and covered with bedspreads like the kind I remember as a child. There are a few fine wood pieces in each home. The living room has a sofa and couch and several pictures hanging on the wall. The front bedroom is outfitted with a double bed, dresser, mirror, and chest. The chest sits on the corner, and sitting on top of it is an old radio. Hanging on the wall right above the old radio is a magnificently large (1X3 feet) elaborate gilded plaque memorializing the late George and Ollie Rhitt. I took pictures of this. In the 2nd bedroom, there is a bed, an antique chiffarobe and bedside table. The most precious and priceless piece in the home was a picture of Elisha and Rhodie Reeves! I was amazed to see this picture. I confirmed the identification of this couple with Cousin Clara. Jimmy had explained to me how he remembered the picture, and he said that there were other pictures; however, the whereabouts of which is quite a mystery. We later went to visit the cemetery at Mt. Olive Baptist Church located in Ariton. On the left side of the cemetery, many graves were inscribed with Reeves and Rhetts. Imagine my surprise when I looked upon the grave of so many Reeves that I have been researching for some years. If you are a history buff like myself, you would have found the tour of the old home and the cemetary fascinating and amazing. We later returned to Stacy and Murline's home where we were served dinner before departing to our home.
We want to say "Thank you!" to Stacy and Murline for being such gracious and considerate hosts. You opened the doors to your home and welcomed each of us with true hospitality. We truly appreciate all of your hardwork in pulling off this momentous occasion. To everyone else like Stacy and Murline's children and Margaret who had a hand in the success of this reunion, Kudos and "Thank You!" If you attended this event, give yourself a pat on the back because without you, this wouldn't have been possible. (Documented by L. Amos, family historian and JRFA president).
Ollie & Jip Rhett Memorial