Uncle Leslie, now 92 years old, grew up in Race Course, Oracabessa, on land just adjacent to Mamie, and Mama's..(all known as the 'Campbell Land')...Ignota, Clement, Morty and Brenti, all went to Oracabessa High with Leslie, and he remembers many good times...he was a bit younger...but still close enough in age to share in their great adventures...though life took them in different directions...they are undeniably family, evident in build, speech, facial features, longevity...and many subtle and not so subtle ways...
As we explore the adventure of the Spanish Jar, we uncover the beauty of the textured clay which make us all who we are today...
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| Winsome (Ignota's last born) and Leslie (Ignota's Cousin) still going very strong at 92 years old sharing a friendly embrace as the two immediately recognised the family connection...beyond a doubt family! |
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| Clarke knew Miss Chickie and John Minott quite well...he remembers Miss Chickie as "the only girl of the four", and as "the quiet one", he says this with a smile on his face...and repeats.."the quiet one" |
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| Leslie Clarke served as Acting Corporal in the early days, and he was a member of the Executive Federation of the Police. He eventually served as Superintendent. Leslie is 1st in line from the right (standing). |
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| Meeting Uncle Leslie, fist reaction ... wow he has Grandma's eyes! |
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| Uncle Leslie shows us pictures and artifacts from his life.....helping us piece together our puzzle...all adding to the history of the Spanish Jar.... |
For many years our cousin has been so close, and we had no clue..the meeting came out of Jackie (Ignota's 3rd born) conversation with George (Ignota's 1st born). George has been intouch with Leslie Clarke for many years...almost every year in March, Uncle Leslie and his family make the trip to 'race course' to eat black crabs. There's more to come in Meeting Uncle Leslie Part 2... stay tuned..
This is very interesting. I can't wait to learn more. Where does he live? Does he have siblings? Who were his parents? Who are his children, grandchildren, and where do they live? I didn't know that I had Clarke cousins on my maternal side. I know of Clarkes on my paternal side. My cousin Anthony Clarke lives in Ocala, Fl. I even had a flat tire recently as I traveled to work one day in Atlanta. The good samaritan who suddenly appeared and willingly helped me out was a fellow yardy and married to another kindred spirit with the maiden name of Clarke. My God always provides and with a twist...that makes you go hmm. Nothing is ever by accident, but devine.
ReplyDeleteFamily Lineage
Interwoven in the fabric
that travels with us all
as we pass to and fro
in Kingston, St. Andrew, St. Mary
unknown yet known faces
amongst us as we move about
in Miami, Atlanta, Ocala
Kindred spirits
Interwoven in the fabric
that travels with us
as we pass to and fro
Amazing and wonderful. Winnie and Steffi you both moved quickly and purposefully to carry Ignota Louise's (Aunt Chick/ Chickie's) story to another level, guided by the Holy Spirit. I am so happy you found Cousin Leslie and that Brother George Anthony remembered this important link. This new unfolding will yeild more tales yet untold into the collective memory and lives of our family. Again, we see another one of us with a great spirit who most likely overcame great odds to achieve what he did in life.
ReplyDeleteLove and unity always
Jackie
Great work I know Mama will be happy to know you spoke with her cousin and comming closer to get the information she longs to hear.
ReplyDeleteHave a great day Spanish Jar bloggers
Love Always
BarDall
Yes his story is fascinating. He was injured as a young policeman a boulder cracked his head on a training programme in the hills. He was in and out of consciousness for over 1 year. Nevertheless, he regained his health and went back to work rising to the level of Sup of Police. He retired in 1976. Worked with the Tourist Board. He has 7 boys, one wife. She died 6 years ago. We met Kaple he reminds me of Uncle Clem but not as tall as Clem. Stef taped the conversation so she will upload it soon.
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