Mattie S. Ledwell (Aunt Mattie)

Aunt Mattie was one of the older daughters of Oscar and Wincey Ledwell. She was the only daughter of Oscar who never married and acted as the overseers of the family.

At a young age, she went to work for then Lawyer Spence. Mr. Spence home was across from the old courthouse. After being employed by the Spence's for several years, they decided to build her a small house in back of theirs. This was not unusual doing early 1900. Most prominent Whites during that time had blacks as maids or butlers. Aunt Mattie remained with the Spences through Mr. Spence's death and Mrs. Spence relocating to a senior living environment.

Understanding aunt Mattie takes nerves. She could scare the daylight out of you. Neither her brothers are sisters seem to never disagree with her. She was the phenomenal "Old Maid." She was strict in her beliefs and her call to support her family.

If you had not known her, you would have thought she was our father's mother. When we wanted permission to go or do something, our father would always say to ask Mattie. If Aunt Matie was not in favor of the project, we could forget it.

As I grew from fear of her to love, I honestly came to appreciate her in our lives. She was the glue that held the homeplace together. The support she provided to us children and the family went unnoticed by many. When I would become defiant about one of her rules, our mother would remind me of the support she provides. It was not financial support but the support of the land, church, and homeplace. She left her legacy with me. As I have grown into adulthood, I have come to realize just how precious your family and their values are.

Aunt Mattie taught me how to present myself as a lady at all times and never be intimidated by anyone. I give her credit for my strength, love of family and also to cherish our heritage.

One of her most outstanding features was her ability to stand up to her adversaries. She instilled in me the respect for our people and to always stand up for the good of humanity regardless of race, creed or color.

Written by Jane Ledwell-Gant