Tag: family history

Posted in Coni Dubois, Coni's Stuff

🪶 Barkhamsted Light House Village: A True American Story

Posted on by Coni Dubois

I have decided to write a children’s book—because some stories are too important to wait until we’re grown to hear them. This one has lived in my heart for years, passed down through generations, whispered in family stories, and rooted in the soil of a forgotten village that shaped who I am.

Now FREE to Read Online—Because This History Belongs to All of Us.

Some stories are too important to keep behind closed doors.

Barkhamsted Light House Village: A True American Story is one of those stories—a legacy of resilience, erasure, and reclamation that shaped my family, and echoes through the roots of this country.

That’s why I’ve made the full book available to read online, free of charge. Because this isn’t just my history. It’s ours.

🌿 What Is the Barkhamsted Light House Village?

Hidden deep in the woods of Connecticut, the Barkhamsted Light House Village was home to a multiracial, multicultural community of Native, African, and European descent.

These families—Chagum (Chaugum/Chaugham), Barber, Freeman, Wilson, and others—lived together in defiance of the rigid racial and social boundaries of their time.

They were labeled “outcasts.” But they were builders, farmers, protectors, and storytellers. They were my ancestors.

📖 Why I Wrote This Book

As a genealogist and historical researcher, I’ve spent decades tracing the truth of my lineage. What I found in the Light House Village wasn’t just a forgotten settlement—it was a foundation. A place where dignity, identity, and community thrived despite systemic erasure. But their story had been distorted, dismissed, or buried.

So I wrote this book to set the record straight—not just for my family, but for every family whose truth has been silenced.This is a true American story. And it deserves to be known.

💻 Read It Now, Share It Freely

You can read the full book online, right now, for free:

👉 https://bit.ly/4oRdUDw

Whether you’re a descendant, a history lover, or someone seeking deeper understanding of America’s hidden past, I invite you to explore this story—and share it. Because healing begins with truth. And truth belongs to everyone.

🔍 What You’ll Discover – Meticulous research drawn from land deeds, court records, oral traditions, and archaeology – Personal reflections on legacy, identity, and reclamation – Illustrations that bring the village to life – A call to action to honor erased histories and uplift living descendants.

💔 Why It Still Matters

In a time when history is contested and truth is politicized, this story reminds us: the past is not gone. It lives in us. And we have a responsibility to carry it forward with clarity, compassion, and courage.

The Barkhamsted Light House Village may have been erased from maps—but not from memory. And now, through this book, it stands again.

🌿 In honor of those who came before, and for those still finding their way— To my ancestors: I see you.

📌 A Note About Access

At this time, Barkhamsted Light House Village: A True American Story is available to read online only. I haven’t yet figured out how to make personal copies available for purchase—and truthfully, this isn’t about money for me. It’s about truth. Legacy. And love.

I wrote this book to honor my ancestors and share their story freely with anyone who needs it. When the time comes to offer printed copies, I’ll make sure they’re accessible to all. Until then, I invite you to read, reflect, and share the online version with anyone who might find healing or connection in its pages.

Thank you for walking this journey with me.

🪶 Coni Dubois

Descendant of the Light House Village – Keeper of Stories

Genealogist • Author • Legacy Advocate

Posted in Coni Dubois, Ken Feder

100th Anniversary of People’s State Forest Oct 6th, 2024

Posted on by Coni Dubois

Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of People’s State Forest in Barkhamsted, Connecticut is home to three of the state’s designated State Archaeological Preserves. Ken Feder directed the excavation of two: the metaphorically named Lighthouse community and the 2,850-year-old Walter Landgraf Soapstone Quarry.

On Sunday, October 6th, at Matthies Grove in Peoples State Forest, East River Road, Barkhamsted, FALPS and the State of Connecticut celebrated the true essence of the “Peoples” State Forest. Attendees delved into its founding, participated in forest-related activities, watched oxen pull logs to a portable sawmill and observed the loggers milling the wood. They enjoyed a chain carving contest and witnessed dignitaries plant a ceremonial tree, among many other engaging events.

Both Robert Starr and Ken Feder remarked that it was a splendid day filled with beauty and history.

FALPS : FALPS is a group that works diligently and tirelessly to improve our forests, keep the trails clear, build bog bridges and boardwalks and fun year-round hikes and events to benefit those who visit the area.

Note: I’ll add any newspaper article links or photos of the event as they come in. Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it to the event, but I can’t wait to see all the photos taken.

CT Visit & ct.org

L2R: Sites Archeologist Ken Feder &
Light House Descendant Robert Starr
Photo credit: Ken Feder
L2R: Ken Feder & Ginny Apple
L2R: Ginny Apple & Robert Starr – Photo credit: Robert Starr
Ken Feder Photo credit: Robert Starr
Display by: Ginny Apple (based off archeological places of site)
Photo credit: Robert Starr
Posted in Coni Dubois, Coni's Stuff

Interested in checking out my YouTube channel? I’d love for you to take a look!

Posted on by Coni Dubois

Photo AI created/generated @conidubois

To view:

Coni Dubois YouTube Channel

As I prepare for the Barkhamsted Lighthouse Gathering, which marks its 10th year since its inception, I am also revamping and modernizing my various social media channels. My goal is to streamline all of my content and make it easily accessible. Additionally, I am working on creating new research materials for the upcoming occasion.

With that said, I have tons to share and more stories to tell and looking forward to catching up with everyone.

🤗 Coni

Posted in Coni Dubois

🚨 Calling all Barkhamsted Lighthouse Village People

Posted on by Coni Dubois

  Mark your calendars for October 5th and 6th, 2024 because it’s going to be a celebration like no other! We are thrilled to announce that it will be the 100th anniversary of Peoples Forest and we want all descendants to be a part of it. Whether you can make it or not, you are welcome to join in on the festivities. It’s going to be an unforgettable event!

Note: Map Date 6/18/2009 (need newer version)

Peoples State Forest 100th Anniversary Celebration

Sunday, October 6th, 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Matthies Grove, Peoples State Forest, East River Road, Barkhamsted. Come join FALPS and the State of Connecticut in celebrating what truly is the “Peoples” State Forest. Learn about its founding, watch and participate in various forest-related activities, see Oxen pull logs up to a portable saw mill and watch the loggers mill the wood, watch a chain carving contest, join dignitaries in planting a ceremonial tree and much more. Free and open to all.

Hi everyone 👋

The Barkhamsted Light House Village has been experiencing a lot of great things lately and I am excited to announce an upcoming event that everyone should know about. Although I am not certain if I can attend (it is marked on my calendar as a possibility), I am considering organizing a virtual alternative for event if not going to make it. I hope many will plan to attend this amazing event.

Help Us Celebrate 100 Years!

Barkhamsted forest group receives funding for film, study – By Emily M. Olson, Staff Writer – Oct 31, 2023

_________________________________________

Couple messages sent to family on event:

1. Via Facebook Messenger from Ginny Apple to Coni Dubois

Hi Coni. Hope you’re doing well. I don’t know if you know it or not, but the Friends of American Legion and Peoples State Forests are, in concert with DEEP, planning the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Peoples State Forest on October 6th from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Matthies Grove in Peoples State Forest. 

We believe a presence of the Lighthouse Community family would be an important addition to the event.

We have planted around 60 trees already, in Celebration, and will be joined by the Governor and the DEEP Commissioner for a ceremonial tree planting.

We hope that you’ll be able to come and, as such an important part of the history of the Forest, it would be a major presence for us.

Hope all is well. 

Thanks, 

Ginny

________________________________________________

2. Via email from Paul Hart to Coni Dubois

Hi Coni-

Hope all is well with you.  I just wanted to let you know that we are planning for a big celebration for the 100th anniversary of Peoples Forest.  Peoples was dedicated on October 4, 1924. They had a huge event with thousands of people attending back then.  Our plans are coming together for a two day celebration: on Saturday evening, October 5 we will have a kickoff gathering, and then on Sunday October 6 during the day, we are going to have a bunch of programs, exhibits and displays recognizing this important birthday of Peoples Forest, which is a resource much appreciated by the community here.  This will all take place in the Matthies Area (more or less across from Squire’s Tavern).

 Let me know your thoughts and wish you the best.

Paul Hart

Barkhamsted Historical Society

_______________________________________

Hope many that live close will be able to attend 🤗

Posted in Sherry Lyn Carsten

Reclaiming our Native American Culture…

Posted on by Sherry Lyn

I have known my whole life that my maternal grandmother had Native American ancestry. When I was a teenager my US History teacher gave us some extra credit work of creating a family tree. So I went to my grandmother and asked her to share what she knew.

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Ruth Ann, Edith and Sherry (unknown date)

Her grandfather was Frederick Roy Webster. And he claimed to be the grandson of an Indian Chief in a newspaper article about their wedding anniversary as well as his obituary. He was the son of Solomon “Ol Sol” Webster and Mary Wilson (Though his death certificate states his mother was Sarah Charugn, which is completely wrong). As stated in a previous blog, Solomon was the son of Montgumery “Gum” Webster of Mehegan descent. Mary Wilson was the daughter of William P. Wilson Jr and Harriet Wilson. William was the grandson of James Chagum (of Narragansett descent) and Molly/Mary Barber, of the Lighthouse Village in Barkhamsted, Connecticut.

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Fred Webster Family
(I got the photo from my grandmother Edith Webster Lash (daughter of Bert), she told me that this was her father’s family on the day of her mother’s funeral (July 1921) it was with other photos of Berts girls with their cousins, Nora’s daughters. Grandma had all the names right except for Almo & Bryon Judson Price, I sent this photo to Onalee Ordiway Potter (Byron’s granddaughter) & she named the people. Also the date on the photo says “OCT 56” this can’t be, since both Mary & Fred Webster died in 1942)

…Some in Michigan are Living…

Calling me back “home,” beckoning me is a little piece of land. Ironically it is called Barkhamsted Lighthouse. I ponder the inhabitants of the Lighthouse “Tribe” even thought what it’s name would mean to those coming after them. To me it is a beacon deep in my heart. A passion that was my mother’s and my grandmother’s to stand where the Websters & Chagum’s once stood. To see the old cemetery & foundations of the homes, that are barely noticed today. To somehow feel their presence from the past. To visit the town’s Historical Society and Records vault, to find my ancestors name in some forgotten record.

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Photo from The Legend of Barkhamsted Light House, by Lewis Sprauge Mills, (Lewis Sprauge Mill, publisher. Barkhamsted, CT).

In Lewis S. Mills book, “The Legend of the Barkhamsted Light House” page 93 he writes…

“Molly Barber and James Chaugham
Dead and Buried-gone forever:
Scattered now are their descendants.
Some are in the Town of Woodbury
Busy digging graves and hunting;
Some in Riverton and Colebrook
Some in Harwinton and Winsted,
Some in Michigan are living.

… Generations speeding onward
In an ever widening circle,
Carry far the blood of Chaugham
And his spouse, brave Molly Barber…”

My family are part of that “…SOME IN MICHIGAN ARE LIVING….”

During my childhood my mom and my grandma always tried to find out more about our ancestors and our culture. We went to a couple of Pow-Wow’s here in Saginaw area of Michigan and I was mesmerized by the drums and dancers. When I was older some Native American singers called Rain Song came to the church we were attending and played. That is where I came up with the name to my blog “Echo’s of Lost Footprints.”

Fred & Mary’s marriage record below…

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I found a quote somewhere on the web that I wrote down, “We will be known forever by the tracks we leave!” I believe this is a call to arms for me. I believe it’s the echo’s of my ancestors that are calling out for me to find them & learn about the “tracks” they left for me to find. Also, it’s a challenge for us, to leave a legacy for our children, grandchildren & beyond… a legacy of purity, wholesomeness of heart & bravery.

In March our local library was part of the One Book Shiawassee, is a Community Read effort with the goal to invite Shiawassee County residents to collectively read the same book at the same time. We read FIREKEEPERS DAUGHTER by Angeline Boulley, and I got to see/hear her at an authors event hosted by One Book Shiawassee.

Some other events were the Deer Hide bracelet craft with Reg Pettibone, a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, he shared with those attending about deer and the cultural significance to village life and Native American culture. And later Reg, along with his wife Marca, from the Paiute Nation, & their daughters presented a unique and engaging cultural performance that amazes, entertains and educates. Reg, draws on his traditional upbringing to provide the audience with a better understanding of true native culture through dance, song, stories and audience participation. Here are some photos I took during these events.

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Here is my daughter, Shelbi with Reg Pettibone after the Deer Hide Bracelet Craft event (I didn’t realize his eyes were shut). She was so proud to learn about the Native culture. My ancestors were Mohegan and Narragansett, so things would be different with some similarities.

Logos above are the Narragansett & Mohegan Tribes logos.

Much Love from Michigan, Sherry Lyn

Posted in Coni Dubois

2025 Barkhamsted Lighthouse Gathering

Posted on 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
Descendants Cards
Posted in Coni Dubois

Coni Dubois – A Pillar of Genealogical Exploration

Posted on 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”.

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Posted in Coni Dubois

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

Posted on 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

Posted in 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 by Coni Dubois

Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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!