Exploring the depths of our family history isn’t just about satisfying our curiosity or filling in a family tree. It’s about preserving a legacy for future generations—our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Imagine the invaluable gift of knowing the stories, struggles, and triumphs of ancestors. I recall a moment when convincing a relative of the significance of capturing a four-generation photograph proved challenging. This rare opportunity, featuring a newborn alongside their father, grandfather, and great-grandmother, epitomizes a unique, once-in-a-lifetime moment that, while it might seem of little consequence now, will undoubtedly become a treasured piece of history for future family members. Let’s cherish and seize these moments, understanding their potential impact and the legacy they contribute to our descendants.
What Value A Photo?
In life’s vast and ever-twisting tree,
Where roots dive deep and branches free,
Lies a tale of ages past,
In shadows long and echoes cast.
A newborn’s cry, a lineage’s breath,
A moment shared ‘twixt life and death,
Where generations in a frame,
Bind future’s promise, past’s acclaim.
Great-grandmother’s eyes, a well of years,
Father, grandfather, bygone fears,
A lineage in a single sight,
A beacon through time, a guiding light.
So, treasure these moments, brief and rare,
A photo, a memory, an heirloom to share,
For what may seem small in our own story’s page,
Becomes the legacy of a future age.
–Penned by Tom Winslow, 2024-02-07
About Tom Winslow
THOMAS PERRY WINSLOW
North Carolina
Born in the heart of Washington, DC, I made the serene landscape of Iredell County my home in 1948. I spent my formative years enveloped by the pastoral charm of a dairy farm in Troutman, North Carolina, leading to my graduation from Troutman High School. My insatiable thirst for knowledge led me to attend the reputable Gaston Technical Institute and Wake Forest College. In addition to my academic pursuits, I achieved the status of a Notary Public and ventured into the dynamic world of auctions as a licensed Auctioneer in North Carolina, simultaneously extending my prowess to online sales.
My social background is intricately woven with a tapestry of leadership and passion for local history. I took on the mantle of President at the Iredell County Genealogical Society and dedicated over a decade to managing the Iredell County GenWeb website. An avid collector, my treasure trove of Iredell County memorabilia awaits its destined home at the Statesville Historical Collection. Genealogy isn't just a hobby for me—it's a lifelong passion. My dedication is evident through my longstanding maintenance of my family's Ancestry.com site. Beyond genealogy, my interests encompass coin and Native American artifact collecting, capturing moments through photography, and the thrill of backpacking. My love for community involvement shines as a past President of both the Catawba Valley Gem and Mineral Club and the Conover Manor HOA in Conover, NC. My journey with the Catawba County British Car Club holds fond memories, heightened by the time I spent with my cherished 1966 Triumph TR4A.
Professionally, my journey is adorned with varied experiences. I had the privilege of imparting knowledge as an instructor at Mitchell College in Statesville, North Carolina. However, my professional zenith was attained in the realm of information technology. At Prodelin Corporation in Newton, NC, I revolutionized the workspace by designing and installing their inaugural computer network. This accomplishment propelled me to a distinguished tenure with General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT). There, I seamlessly integrated into diverse work environments across the nation, providing my expertise to various facilities.
In more recent pursuits, my own personal website has been a canvas for my passions and interests, and as the owner of the domain Iredell.com, I'm eagerly anticipating its reactivation. With over half a century delving into family genealogy, I've embraced the joys and challenges alike—from chasing elusive family branches to unearthing fascinating familial "skeletons". My research led to a poignant discovery of my African American ancestors, bridging past gaps through the marvels of DNA testing. This very DNA testing revealed a fascinating snippet—my wife's link to the Neanderthals!
Having gracefully transitioned into retirement, my current engagements revolve around assisting fellow genealogists in their quests. But don't let my retirement status mislead you. At the admirable age of 80, my mind remains as keen as ever. My zest for life translates into my health routine as well, best showcased when I mount my road bicycle, taking on the expansive roads for journeys spanning 20 to 25 miles.
