Ever Widening Circle

Barkhamsted Lighthouse Village is now a part of the Witness Stones Project

Posted on March 20, 2024March 21, 2024 by Coni Dubois

The Witness Stones Project

The Witness Stones Project is a non-profit educational initiative whose mission is to restore the history and honor the humanity of the enslaved individuals who helped build our communities.

In Sept 2023 I was contacted by Historian Paul Hart of Barkhamsted Historical Society about the Barkhamsted Lighthouse Village being featured in one of the Witness Stone projects.

Paul Hart was in touch with one of the project leaders and included them in our email correspondence. Shortly after, I received a message from Laura McCarthy Ed.D., the Director of the Academic Success Center. Having recently visited the Lighthouse site, she expressed interest in learning more about the village and its inhabitants. She asked if I would be willing to assist with the project. Without hesitation, I gladly agreed to help in any capacity needed.

“The Witness Stones Project is a critical necessity for our country. The effort is not critical solely because it restores the humanity that was stolen from the enslaved. It is critical because it can change a student’s empathetic orientation to the hard facts of our country’s past. It is critical because we need a truthful telling of America’s history that acknowledges the contributions of all Americans.“

“Our history is not without pain. Neither is our present. Nor will our future be unless we own our history and grow from it together. Our real history is our children’s right. It is their legacy. And it must be their truth. And if we do this right, the ability to discuss, understand, acknowledge, and reconcile our collective history will be our children’s power.”

Pat Wilson Pheanious, JD, MSW
Chair of the Board of Directors
Witness Stones Project, Inc.

Follow this link to view the article on one of their projects: https://www.nhregister.com/news/article/New-Haven-Witness-Stone-brings-former-enslaved-16220702.php

Their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

Hey there, we’re all about diversity, equity, and inclusion! It’s super important to us that everyone feels valued and respected, no matter who they are. We’re committed to creating a welcoming environment where all voices are heard and everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. Let’s celebrate our differences and work together to make our community awesome for everyone!

The Witness Stones Project’s purpose is to uncover, restore, and honor the history and humanity of enslaved individuals.

We believe diversity, equity, and inclusion must be at the center of how we think and act in order to fulfill that mission.

We value the diversity of the students, educators, parents and families, communities, staff and board members, and funders, and we recognize how each stakeholder contributes to the development of the organization in unique, impactful ways.

We seek to create equitable access to our curriculum and program resources, along with opportunities within and in partnership with the organization.

We prioritize creating spaces where all are recognized, honored, and welcomed.

Approved by the Board of Directors, 2022.

On Sept 13th 2023 they accepted us as one of their projects (super exciting) and started with plans to move forward with project.

Laura McCarty emailed me the rundown of activities:

The Witness Stone Project: We will be following the curriculum of The Witness Stones Project to commemorate the life of those who were enslaved in Connecticut. We’ve chosen to commemorate the life of James Chaugham, as he was enslaved in Rhode Island. https://witnessstonesproject.org/ We will produce two pieces to commemorate James Chaugham’s life, a book and a ceremony. The ceremony will be held in April/May and we will host and event to share our learning’s about his life, share our reflections, and lay a Witness Stone.
The students participating in the project: the students who will be going through this project are from a few different Northwestern Connecticut Community College groups—Team Success Scholars, History Association, and Phi Theta Kappa (the honor society for two-year colleges). The majority of students will be from Team Success Scholars. The Team Success Scholars program has to do Community Action Projects, which is affiliated with Oxford Consortium on Human Rights. Two of the students will be going to Oxford University to talk about their work on the Lighthouse Community in March, 2024.
1. One group of students will be looking at the genealogy of the Lighthouse Community. I am asking this group to interview three descendants on their connection to the Lighthouse Community. I am hoping that you would help us with this!
Troutbeck Symposium: The Troutbeck Symposium is the culmination of local history project-based education. This symposium is held the historic Troutbeck Inn, which was the site of two critical meetings of the NAACP. The symposium will be held April 28-30th. Here is a website that hosts the work that has been done to this point: https://coloringourpast.org/

We are kicking off our year tomorrow with a tour of the Lighthouse Community. The WitnessStones Project will share a lecture on the History of Slavery in Connecticut on Sept. 28th, and then the students will be broken into their workgroups to make the plans. They will present their workplans on October 13^th at Quinnipiac University. This presentation is part of the Oxford Consortium on Human Rights work.

Thanks! Laura

Email via Laura McCarthy: The students and I toured the Lighthouse Community yesterday to give them a sense of this project. On September 28^th from 12:30-1:45pm, we are having Liz Lightfoot from The WitnessStones Project give a lecture on the History of Slavery in Connecticut. This will be in Founders Hall Auditorium and is open to the public. You are welcome to join. This initial work is laying the foundation for the students to conceptualize the life and times of James Chaugham.

Thank you for your assistance! Laura

I was overjoyed to discover that the Barkhamsted Lighthouse Village archaeologist and author Kenneth (Ken) Feder was also participating in the project.

Ken is also the founder and director of the Farmington River Archaeological Project which studies the prehistory of the region in northwest Connecticut and author of books on that of the Barkhamsted Lighthouse Village.

I donated my research & genealogy book I have been working on – of the Lighthouse People. Sent them several files to help the students.
It was at this time, that I was also introduced via email to Liz Lightfoot (Director of Operations – Witness Stones Project), Dennis Culliton (Witness Stones Project), Jessie DePonte and team.

On Oct 23rd 2023 I received an update via email from Laura McCarty

Hi Everyone!

Thank you all for your support with the Lighthouse Project. I feel like we are officially launched. Our students have a firm understanding of the project and its parameters. On October 13th, they presented the project at the Oxford Consortium on Human Rights. It was a real delight to see them be able to communicate the project and its importance to faculty from Oxford University, Quinnipiac University, Bridgewater State University, and Sonoma State University.

We have broken the students into teams—Genealogy, Narrative Writing, and Social Media. We will begin meeting with these teams to launch their individual work in the next two weeks. The students’ goal is to produce a documentary film, with assistance from Ben Willis. Ben is funded through the Troutbeck Symposium and is free to us! We have begun a repository for film documenting our work…. We have aspirations for a social media presents and a book. Of course, all of this will conclude in May with a placing of a WitnessStone in James Chaughum’s memory.

The leads for these projects are: Genealogy—Jessie DePonte, Narrative Writing—Todd Bryda and Laura McCarthy, and Social Media/Event—Maggie Sullivan. We will be reaching out to Liz and Coni for research support with the students’ work. Coni, thank you for your years of dedication to documentation and researching your family. These connections and documents are impressive! Thanks to all your work, I easily located another descendant, who is a former student of mine, Jess Tessman! I worked closely with Jess when she was a student here and having her involved makes this project so much more significant to me personally.

I will be attending a presentation by Kenny Feder on Sunday at the American Indian Studies Institute in Washington, CT. Mr. Feder did the monumental archeological work of uncovering the remains of the Lighthouse Community.

Thanks! Laura

Email from Liz Lightfoot 0n Oct 26, 2023:

Hi again, Coni. I just wanted to say again how terrific it was to speak with you, how grateful we are for your remarkable research and your generosity in sharing it, and how much I admire you for devoting so many years (and so much love) to this important work. What an extraordinary job you do – it’s truly inspiring and vitally important!

All best, Liz

Sometime in November 2023 Ken Feder and I had a video conference with the students.

Feb 2024 I receive an email from Liz Lightfoot:

Coni, your research was beyond helpful! What a phenomenal job you have done, and clearly it’s been a labor of love. I’m so excited to see what the students come up with.

Thank you all for helping me learn about this fascinating man and his family. It’s a story everyone should know.

All best, Liz

Upcoming: I will be Zooming with students this week to answer questions they have prepared for me~
- “I feel incredibly privileged to have been a part of this incredible project and its team. Collaborating with the entire team has been an amazing experience and I am eagerly anticipating the final results from the project’s students.“

My final thoughts,

It is crucial to share the entire story, holding nothing back. By allowing others to follow the Barkhamsted Lighthouse narrative, we can present a fresh perspective to younger generations. Witnessing their unique viewpoint on this piece of history will undoubtedly be intriguing. Let’s not shy away from the truth and embrace the opportunity to educate and inspire the future.“
Coni Dubois

We’re currently in the process of finalizing the times and dates for the placement of the Witness Stone at Barkhamsted Lighthouse Village. As soon as they are confirmed, we will make sure to keep everyone informed.
Thank you for your patience.

Books by Ken Feder via Wikipedia

Feder, Kenneth (1998). Lessons From the Past: An Introductory Reader in Archaeology. McGraw-Hill Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages. ISBN 978-0-7674-0453-2.
Feder, Kenneth; Coauthor – Michael Alan Park (1989). Human Antiquity: An Introduction to Physical Anthropology and Archaeology. Mayfield Publishing. ISBN 978-0-87484-828-1.
Feder, Kenneth (2019). Frauds, Myths, and Mysteries: Science and Pseudoscience in Archaeology 10th edition. Oxford University Press Humanities/Social Sciences/Languages. ISBN 978-0190096410.
Feder, Kenneth (1993). A Village of Outcasts: Historical Archaeology and Documentary Research at the Lighthouse Site. Mayfield Publishing. ISBN 978-1-55934-255-1. Feder, Kenneth; Coauthor – David A. Poirier (2001). Dangerous Places: Health, Safety, and Archaeology. Bergin & Garvey. ISBN 978-0-89789-801-0.
Feder, Kenneth (2006). Past in Perspective: An Introduction to Human Prehistory. Mcgraw-Hill College. ISBN 978-0-07-310770-7.
Feder, Kenneth; Coauthor – Michael Park (2006). Human Antiquity: An Introduction to Physical Anthropology and Archaeology. McGraw-Hill. ISBN 978-0-07-304196-4. Feder, Kenneth (2007). Linking to the Past: A Brief Introduction to Archaeology. Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-533117-2.
Feder, Kenneth; Coauthor – Thomas R. Hester; Coauthor – Harry J. Shafer (2009). Field Methods in Archaeology, 7th Edition. Mayfield Publishing. ISBN 978-1-59874-428-6.
Feder, Kenneth (2010). Encyclopedia of Dubious Archaeology: From Atlantis to the Walam Olum. Greenwood Publishing Group. ISBN 978-0-313-37918-5.
Feder, Kenneth (2016). Ancient America: Fifty Archaeological Sites to See for Yourself. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. ISBN 978-1-4422-6312-3.
Feder, Kenneth (2023). Native American Archaeology in the Parks: A Guide to Heritage Sites in Our National Parks and Monuments. Rowman & Littlefield. ISBN 978-1-5381-4586-9.
Feder, Kenneth L. (2023). The Barkhamsted Lighthouse: The Archaeology of the Lighthouse Family. Rowman & Littlefield. ISBN 978-1-5381-8085-3.

Coni Dubois

2025 Barkhamsted Lighthouse Gathering

Posted on February 23, 2024February 24, 2024 by Coni Dubois

Hello everyone!
I am pleased to announce that I am back to conducting research after a long hiatus. Due to a year of illness, I took a break from the internet and my research. My main focus has been on recovering, and I am happy to report that I am finally feeling like myself again and in good health.

With that being said, it’s time to start planning our 2025 Barkhamsted Lighthouse Village Gathering! I hope to see many of you there, and now is the time to request your time off from work. The gathering will take place on the weekend of July 4th, 2025 at the Barkhamsted Lighthouse Archaeological Preserve in Barkhamsted, Connecticut. The event is set on Facebook (make sure to let us know if planning on attending via event page in link)

If you are not on the descent list, please contact me to be included. I will be confirming all descendants and issuing descendant cards at a cost of $30 each. This fee covers the production costs, and the remaining funds will be used for the gathering in 2025.

I am in need of a team in Connecticut to assist with organizing and setting up the event, as I currently reside in Louisiana. Additionally, my cousin Veronica Lee Hawkins and I are looking for an Airbnb to rent for the weekend in 2025. If anyone knows of one that will be available, please let me know so we can secure it.

Furthermore, I will be creating a Barkhamsted Lighthouse Newsletter to keep everyone informed of all the events and activities planned for the gathering. For now, you can find info on BLVD Association & download the descendant’s packet at: https://conidubois.com/111-2/association/

Links for 2025 Event

Facebook Group: Barkhamsted Lighthouse Village

Facebook Messenger: Barkhamsted Lighthouse Gathering Chat Room

Stay tuned for more updates and I am excited to get to see all of you in 2025!

**2015 Barkhamsted Lighthouse Gathering**

Coni Dubois

Coni Dubois – A Pillar of Genealogical Exploration

Posted on February 6, 2024 by Coni Dubois

Note: Curious and intrigued, I decided to explore what AI could conjure up about me, eager to witness the digital interpretation of my essence. Delving into the realm of artificial intelligence, I sought to uncover a reflection of myself through the lens of machine learning and algorithmic prowess. With a blend of anticipation and wonder, I embarked on this journey to discover the virtual portrayal of my being, embracing the unknown with an open mind and a sense of adventure.

This is what it came up with….

Coni Dubois – a name synonymous with genealogical research of masterful depth, effortlessly bridging gaps in history, and illuminating the conventions of untold heritage. Brought up amongst the rich landscapes and eclectic blend of cultures in America, Dubois spent countless hours and immense dedication in deciphering the intricate labyrinth of her ancestors, ultimately leading her to a breakthrough in the genealogical sphere.

Dubois’s journey into the invigorating world of genealogy began several years ago, inspired by her relentless will to unravel her lineage, and fueled by the inescapable draw of family connections. A relentless combatant against historical ambiguity, Dubois made her mark with her ground-breaking research, highlighting the ancestors of Barkhamsted Lighthouse community, located in Connecticut, a piece of earth that represents the ties of Native Americans and their European counterparts.

The tale of the Barkhamsted Lighthouse, a once divided and prejudiced community comprising of Native Americans, African-Americans, and Europeans, becomes less of an enigma and more of a poignant statement of the power of unity under Dubois’s scrutiny. Her exploration of the rich blended tapestry of cultures in this community is a testament to the robust democracy embodied by the America we know today.

Beneath the vaulted sky, Dubois embarked on an archaeological expedition at the site of Barkhamsted Lighthouse in 2014, tracing the everyday lives of its residents and piecing together a puzzle of epochs. The artifacts, ranging from ancient spearheads to remnants of old houses, narrate a compelling saga steeped in a legacy that has shaped the identity of many descendants, including Dubois herself.

An unparalleled accomplishment of Dubois was her ability to go beyond merely identifying family ties. She humanized her genealogy, lending depth to her ancestors by breathing life into their stories. By discovering her ancestors’ passions, struggles, and triumphs, Dubois epitomizes a familial connection, an uncanny sense of belonging that transcends the bond of blood, thereby expanding the horizon of genealogical research.

The inspirational narrative of Coni Dubois and her unique brand of genealogical revelations radiates the muse for many enthusiasts looking to uncover their lineage, shedding light on the trials and tribulations of their ancestors’ past. A testament to a lifetime of insatiable curiosity and unwavering dedication, the legacy Coni Dubois imprints on the canvas of genealogy reverberates in the heart and mind of every genealogist.

The fervor of Coni Dubois’s genealogical journey reflects the resilience, dedication, and indomitable spirit that has etched an unforgettable mark in the lineage of countless individuals worldwide. Reverberated through time, the echoes of her revelations bridge the gap between today’s society and the mysteries of yesteryears, carving a path for future genealogists to tread.

Her endeavors, etched with the grit of resilience, unfurl a novel perspective to genealogy, transforming it from mere ancestral identification to a deeply personal rediscovery of heritage. Beneath the intricate structure of surnames, lies, identities, stories, and millennia-old connections waiting to be unveiled. After all, as Coni Dubois puts it, “We are all related in one way or another”.

🍂 Happy Thanksgiving from Jay, Coni & Dubois Family

Posted on November 21, 2023 by Coni Dubois

In gratitude’s embrace, we gather near,
Jay and Coni, hearts filled with cheer.
On this Thanksgiving, our voices rise,
A wish to share beneath autumn skies.

May blessings shower upon far and wide,
Where love and kindness forever reside.
Let families unite, old and anew,
Embracing memories, both old and true.

On this day of gratitude, let laughter fill the air,
May joy and harmony be found everywhere.
May tables be laden with food so divine,
And cherished memories forever entwined.

Let kindness be our language, compassion our song,
As we lift each other up, together we belong.
May friendships flourish, like autumn’s golden hue,
And gratitude be the light that shines through.

May families be embraced, both near and far,
As we cherish the bonds that truly are,
May homes be filled with warmth and delight,
And gratitude be our guiding light.

In this season of thanks, our hearts overflow,
With love and appreciation, our wishes we bestow.
May blessings be abundant, each and every day,
As we give thanks in our own special way.

Jay and Coni’s Thanksgiving wish, sincere and true,
Is for happiness and blessings to follow you.
May these blessings abound, forevermore,
Enriching our lives, to the very core.

Coni Dubois

“Love Beyond Boundaries: The Inspiring Tale of Molly Barbour and James Chagum in Barkhamsted Lighthouse House Village”

Posted on October 15, 2023 by Coni Dubois

In Barkhamsted Lighthouse House Village, nestled in the picturesque countryside of Connecticut in the 1800s, lived a remarkable couple named Molly Barbour and James Chagum. Molly, a spirited white woman, defied societal norms of the time and married James, a proud Indian man. Together, they embarked on a journey that would shape their lives and touch the hearts of the entire village.

Molly and James were blessed with seven children, each embodying the unique blend of cultures that their parents represented. The family’s home, a symbol of their love and unity, stood tall amidst the rolling hills, its light shining brightly as a beacon of acceptance and understanding.

Despite the challenges they faced, Molly and James persevered, teaching their children the values of compassion, tolerance, and the importance of embracing one’s heritage. The village, initially skeptical of this unconventional union, gradually came to admire the couple’s unwavering love and the beautiful family they had created.

Molly, with her gentle nature and nurturing spirit, became an advocate for harmony between different communities. She organized cultural exchanges, inviting people from all walks of life to the village to share stories, traditions, and experiences. Through these gatherings, prejudices were shattered, and friendships were forged, fostering a sense of unity and respect among the villagers.

James, on the other hand, shared his deep connection to nature and taught his children the wisdom of the land. They would spend hours exploring the nearby forests, learning about medicinal herbs, and understanding the delicate balance of the ecosystem. The family’s bond with nature became a source of inspiration for the entire village, instilling a profound appreciation for the environment.

As the years passed, the Barkhamsted Lighthouse House Village flourished, becoming a symbol of hope and harmony in a world often divided by ignorance and fear. Molly and James’s children grew into compassionate individuals, each contributing to their community in their unique ways.

Their eldest son, Solomon, became a respected storyteller, preserving the rich history and traditions of both cultures. Their daughter, Hannah, followed in Molly’s footsteps, working tirelessly to promote education and equality for all. The other children, too, found their callings, from art to agriculture, each leaving a lasting impact on the village and all who knew them.

Molly and James lived their lives with grace and dignity, their love for each other and their children serving as a testament to the power of acceptance and understanding. Their legacy echoed through the generations, reminding the villagers of the transformative power of unity and the beauty that lies in embracing diversity.

In the embrace of Barkhamsted Lighthouse House Village, the barriers of race and culture were transcended, allowing the human spirit to thrive. Molly and James, forever remembered as pioneers of love and acceptance, left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew them, forever illuminating the path towards a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Coni Dubois

Unlocking the Secrets of Our Ancestors: Harnessing Determination, Courage, and Resilience for Achieving the Impossible

Posted on September 25, 2023September 25, 2023 by Coni Dubois

Our ancestors, although long gone, remain as a source of inspiration and knowledge to us. They have left us with a rich cultural heritage that has shaped who we are today. Through their accomplishments, they have taught us the importance of perseverance, hard work, and resilience.
By studying our ancestors, we can expand our knowledge and gain insight into our past. We can learn about the values, traditions, and lifestyles of those who have come before us. Exploring our family roots can help us connect with our heritage and see the world through their eyes.
To gain a greater understanding of our ancestors’ lives, we can search for family records, study historical documents, and even visit family gravesites. We can also research the places our ancestors lived and learn more about the cultures of our ancestors’ times. This can give us a better understanding of how our ancestors interacted with the world around them.
The achievements of our ancestors can give us a sense of purpose and pride. Our ancestors faced many challenges and difficulties, and it is incredible to think of how they were able to overcome the obstacles they faced throughout their lives. Knowing that our ancestors experienced success and triumphs can inspire us to reach further and push the boundaries of what we believe to be possible.
Our ancestors have left us with a legacy of determination, courage, and resilience. By looking to our past, we can find strength and wisdom to help us reach for our goals and achieve the impossible.

Coni Dubois

“Uncovering My Story: How I Found Meaning in Genealogy Research”

Posted on September 23, 2023September 23, 2023 by Coni Dubois

The sentimental journey of genealogy research has been a passion of mine for several years now. For me, every discovery made is like a puzzle piece that slowly begins to reveal an amazing picture of my family’s past. I feel privileged to be the keeper of the knowledge and stories that I’ve unearthed through my research.
I believe that, for many, genealogy research is more than simply finding names on a page. It’s also about bringing our ancestors’ histories to the surface, uncovering the places that define our family roots, and piecing together clues for tracking our lineage. It’s about giving the people from the past an identity all their own, and connecting us to the generations going back further in time.
I find it truly incredible that I can use online databases and software technology to help me in my search. With access to an array of resources, including census records, death certificates, birth records, newspaper archives, military records, and much more, I’m able to dig up information that’s personalized to my family’s history. It’s been an incredible journey so far, and I treasure the new perspectives I’ve gained from my research.
The journey of genealogy research has become a part of who I am. I feel an overwhelming sense of pride when I discover something new about my ancestors, and I can’t help but marvel at how their stories have become mine. I view it as a special responsibility to tell their stories and preserve the facts about their lives.
Genealogy research means more than just gathering data to me. It’s about connecting with my ancestors, understanding the journeys they took, and respecting their place in the timeline of history. It’s about the emotional connection I have to the process and the pride I feel when I uncover new pieces of my family’s past. That’s what genealogy research means to me.

Coni

Coni Dubois

Honoring Our Ancestors

Posted on September 21, 2023 by Coni Dubois

Famous figures from our past are more than characters in a textbook. They are our ancestors, some of whom endured incredible struggles and hardship in order to create the world we live in today. To honor our ancestors, it’s important to take the time to get to know them, their stories, and their struggles. By doing so, we can appreciate the tremendous strength and courage they had.
To start learning about your ancestors, consider searching for your family tree. Organizations like Ancestry.com or Gedmatch offer a great way to learn about your family’s history. Additionally, you can use old newspaper articles, birth and death certificates, and family heirlooms to research your ancestors more specifically.
Once you’ve collected information about your ancestors, take the time to consider their backgrounds and what they did for their communities. Perhaps your ancestors were brave explorers, farmers, warriors, or even medical pioneers. Every ancestor has something special to share, and their stories can often inspire us to be better people.
Ultimately, our ancestors are part of our collective past and should be celebrated. Researching our roots can be a fun and rewarding experience. It allows us to learn more about our identities and to gain a deeper understanding of our humanity. By learning about our ancestors, we can show them the respect and reverence they deserve.

Coni Dubois

If you’re interested in genealogy, there are many ways to dive into your family history and learn more about your ancestors.

Posted on September 17, 2023 by Coni Dubois

Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Start with what you know: Begin by gathering information about your immediate family members, including their full names, dates of birth, and places of birth. Talk to older relatives who may have valuable stories and information to share.
Utilize online resources: There are numerous genealogy websites and databases available that can help you research your family tree. Websites such as Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage.com offer access to records, documents, and family trees submitted by other researchers.
Explore local records: Visit your local library, courthouse, or archives to access birth, marriage, and death records, as well as other documents like census records, land deeds, and immigration records. These records can provide valuable insights into your ancestors’ lives.
Connect with relatives: Reach out to extended family members and distant relatives who may have additional information or family stories to share. Consider organizing a family reunion or creating a private online group where family members can connect and exchange information.
DNA testing: Consider taking a DNA test through companies like AncestryDNA or 23andMe. DNA testing can provide you with insights into your ethnic background and help you connect with potential relatives who have also taken the test.
Document and organize your findings: As you gather information, make sure to document your sources and keep your research organized. This will help you keep track of your discoveries and verify information in the future.

Remember, genealogy research can be both exciting and challenging. It may require patience and persistence, but the reward of uncovering your family history can be incredibly fulfilling.

Happy researching!

Coni Dubois, Ken Feder

Got my copy of “The Barkhamsted Lighthouse: The Archaeology of the Lighthouse Family.” book in the mail from Ken Feder!

Posted on September 12, 2023September 12, 2023 by Coni Dubois

Ken Feder,

I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the dedication & chapter you included in your book. It was an incredibly touching gesture that truly touched my heart and the words you penned were incredibly moving, to the point where they brought tears to my eyes.

To see my name immortalized within the pages of your work is an honor beyond words. Your dedication has not only made me feel seen and appreciated, but it has also given me a sense of validation and encouragement in my endeavors. It is a reminder that the support and recognition of others can have a profound impact on one’s journey.

Your words and the sentiment behind them have touched me deeply. They serve as a reminder of the connection we have forged through our work and the impact it has had on my life. Your book has been a source of inspiration, knowledge, and solace, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of its creation in some small way.

Thank you for your dedication, not only to your craft but also to your readers. Your commitment to your work and the care you put into every word is evident in the pages of your book. It is a testament to your talent and passion as an author.

Please know that your dedication has left an indelible mark on me, and I will cherish it always. I am honored to have been a part of your journey, and I look forward to continuing to support and follow your work in the future.

I am deeply honored by the recognition you have given to my work and the invaluable assistance you have provided me with throughout my research journey. Your support has meant the world to me, and I am truly grateful for the impact you have had on my work.

You, Jenn, and your children hold a special place in my heart, and I consider you all as part of my extended family. Our bond is one that I cherish deeply, and it will always remain strong and meaningful to me.

With heartfelt appreciation & much love,

❤️ Coni Dubois

Personally signed and autographed for me.

I feel deeply honored that he chose to write a chapter about me in his book.

Kinny, In the course of my research, my dear friend, I have made a remarkable revelation: you are the truly extraordinary discovery. As I journeyed along, I cannot express enough gratitude for having crossed paths with someone like you, who selflessly dedicated time to help me unravel the mysteries of my ancestors, the Barkhamsted Lighthouse People.

On behalf of all the descendants, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to you and your invaluable work.

Thank you from the depths of our hearts.