The Family of Francis Marion Shaw Newsletter Volume 8 Number 2
Loading...
Authors
Shaw, Bryan Lee
Issue Date
1999-06
Type
Text
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
This newsletter profiles Eliza Allen Knight, the stepdaughter of Francis Marion Shaw and daughter of Rachel Moore Allen, highlighting her unique distinction as the last survivor of her generation within the family, embodying a way of life that no longer existed and serving as an oracle for three generations. Born four months after her father's death in the Civil War, she was raised by her widowed mother and then by her stepfather, Francis Marion Shaw, after his marriage to Rachel. Eliza married Sullivan Jordan "Sovin" Knight in 1880, and their life was marked by frequent land transactions and financial fluctuations, often involving borrowing against their property. Despite having 11 children, they also experienced the tragic loss of several infants. After moving for a fresh start, Sovin died suddenly in 1911, leaving Eliza a widow with financial responsibilities. She eventually returned to Berrien County, living with her youngest daughter, Kathleen, and became a beloved, strong-willed "Granny Knight" to her grandchildren, known for her pride, cooking, and active involvement in her church. Eliza passed away in 1945 at the age of 83, marking the end of a whole generation for the Shaw and Allen families.
Description
This item contains 1 PDF with 6 pages and 6 JP2 files