ALFORD FAMILY REUNION HISTORY
Descendants of Solomon Alford & Unknown (John Henry Coffee)
Descendants of Solomon Alford & Lussie X (Matthew, Lafayette, Major)*
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Background
In the summer of 1973, some of the children of Wesley and Emily Dunlap Alford had an informal reunion in Detroit, Michigan. Ione, Syl, Sr. (Delsie) and Sunny (Frank) all lived in Detroit, and hosted the gathering. Also present were Freddie, Romeo, Sr. (Louise), Violet (Lee Virgil, Sr.) and Wessylyne (Allan). Grandchildren and greatgrandchildren were also in attendance. Out of this gathering came the idea for a more formal family reunion. Notably, this was before the 1976 publication of Roots, which popularized researching one’s ancestry and family reunions.
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ALFORD FAMILY REUNION HISTORY
Descendants of Solomon Alford & Unknown (John Henry Coffee)
Descendants of Solomon Alford & Lussie X (Matthew, Lafayette, Major)*
​
Background
In the summer of 1973, some of the children of Wesley and Emily Dunlap Alford had an informal reunion in Detroit, Michigan. Ione, Syl, Sr. (Delsie) and Sunny (Frank) all lived in Detroit, and hosted the gathering. Also present were Freddie, Romeo, Sr. (Louise), Violet (Lee Virgil, Sr.) and Wessylyne (Allan). Grandchildren and greatgrandchildren were also in attendance. Out of this gathering came the idea for a more formal family reunion. Notably, this was before the 1976 publication of Roots, which popularized researching one’s ancestry and family reunions.
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* Additional children: Matilda (remained in Mississippi), Mary (remained in Mississippi), Rosie (no living descendants)
** Scholarship established
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*** ‘Promises: Heritage of an African-American Family,’ compiled by Wessylyne Alford Simpson, published
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List compiled by Wessylyne Alford Simpson, Sylvester Alford, II & Emily Patterson Harris
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ALFORD OF THE YEAR HISTORY
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At every family reunion, we recognize two attendees for their dedication and contributions to our family. Our tradition is to honor these Alford family members as 'Alford of the Year'. We also recognize the supporting spouses who are equally committed to the Alford Family. These individuals are selected as Alford In-laws of the year.
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Below are the past recipients of our Alford Family honor.
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*Deceased
List compiled by Emily Patterson Harris