Thomas Confronts Ancestral Legacy of Slavery

In a recent reflection, Thomas revealed his initial reluctance to delve into the history of slavery and its profound impact on his ancestors, fearing the emotional toll it would take. He described the experience as "strange," indicating a complex relationship with his heritage. Dr. Cicero Fain, a noted expert on Black history in West Virginia, provided context by discussing the plantation that once housed 80 to 100 enslaved individuals, underscoring the scale of human suffering tied to this history. The narrative also highlights the figure of Jenkins, a Harvard graduate and Confederate general, who epitomized the brutal economics of slavery. Jenkins viewed enslaved people merely as property, expressing concerns over the potential loss of wealth to the South with the election of a Union president. His cold calculations estimated the value of 4 million enslaved individuals at around $3 billion, revealing the dehumanizing mindset of the era. Dr. Fain characterized Jenkins as "cruel," emphasizing the harsh realities faced by those enslaved. As Thomas engaged with his heritage, he sought insights from Vincent Brown, a Harvard professor and scholar of the "10 Million Names." This journey has been both professional and personal for Thomas, who acknowledged a psychological struggle in confronting his past. He expressed a poignant realization about the disconnect between historical figures like Jenkins and his own ancestors, particularly Adeline and her mother Charlotte, who are integral to his identity. Ultimately, Thomas credits his mother, Helen, as a defining influence in his life, illustrating the deep connections between personal history and broader narratives of ancestry and legacy.