Tracing the story of five generations of an African American family in the rural South; The Legacy of Tamar is a moving testament to the resilience and triumph of the human spirit. In documenting the struggles of the Taylor-Springfield family; it also explores the fascinating history of Haywood County; Tennessee; where blacks have outnumbered whites almost two to one. Raye Springfield begins her family history in 1913; when Polk Taylor had a dream that foretold the deaths of five family members. After his death; Taylor's widow; Tamar; accepted the role of family matriarch. The Taylor and Springfield families were subsequently joined when Tamar's granddaughter; Opal; married Tonnie Springfield. The book then follows this family; among the few black landowners in the county; as they endeavored to maintain their farm and their bonds of kinship in the face of significant change-most notably the great northern migration. As the author shows in rich detail; the social upheavals in Haywood County brought on by the diminished interest in farming mirrored the national disruptions that occurred with the shift from a largely rural; agricultural society to an urban; industrial one. The Legacy of Tamar spans two world wars; the Great Depression; and the Civil Rights era; showing how the family retained their dreams for a better future in an area where every effort-both social and legal-was exercised to control the large African American population. For this family; strong religious faith and a fervent belief in the value of education helped sustain them through countless hardships. And ultimately; the dreams of Opal and Tonnie Springfield were realized through their grandchildren. More than just the story of one family in one small place; The Legacy of Tamar reflects similar struggles by African American families throughout the South and the nation.
#913748 in Books Xulon Press 2011-11-30Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.50 x .75 x 5.51l; .94 #File Name: 1619046172336 pages
Review
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. A fun read; but Author lacks sufficient understanding of Ethiopian Christianity; and its unique literature.By Kindle CustomerIn his recent work "Jesus in Ethiopia: The Meeting Between the Father and the Son;" American pastor/adventurer/author Jim Rankin does a decent job of introducing some fascinating aspects of Ethiopian Orthodox Christian literature and history. However; Rankin lacks a firm foundation in Ethiopian studies; and Eastern Christian literature. For instance "The Bible" text that Rankin spends many pages discussing is actually an Ethiopian apocryphal manuscript; an important source of local Marian traditions; but not a "Bible" in a strict sense. The text in question is likely what is known as "The Story of Mary;" or "The Minor Gospel;" or perhaps part of a composite text that contains many Marian texts in a single manuscript. Sometimes the "Miracles of Mary;" and "The Story of Mary;" as well as portions of other Marian texts are woven together in a single text for festal; liturgical; reading purposes. I don't want to be too hard on Rankin because I don't think he intended his work to be a scholarly account of his "discovery." It is a fun read; and a serious scholar can be introduced to some aspects of the Ethiopian tradition that merit further investigation. If Rankin; or any interested party; were to spend some time with the 10 (plus one that is forthcoming) Volumes of the Ethiopian Manuscript Microfilm Library Catalogues he/she would gain great insight into this subject matter.Sebhat le Igziabeher!Kasa Wolde Marcos5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. JESUS IN ETHIOPIA BOOK REVIEWBy Dave KochisLike a well-crafted mystery story; this book is exciting and an easy read.From the very beginning the reader is captured by the author. He uses experiences from his own life; experiences common to all of us; to entice us to seek further what this all has to do with Jesus in Ethiopia.From the very beginning you feel adventure and excitement building as you read further.The author early on establishes two focuses that sets the foundation for the entire adventure. They are: `On Holy Ground' and `Neglected History'. Again the reader wonders what this all has to do with Jesus in Ethiopia.The author logically and clearly lays the building blocks as he begins to develop his conclusions based upon research he has done as well as observations and discoveries he experienced in Ethiopia. All of this is clearly documented by photo and/or reference notes.The Bible student will appreciate the extensive use of Bible Scripture to develop the background for the experiences and discoveries discussed. He also uses Scripture to possibility stretch the reader into new areas.The `crescendo' at least for this reader was when the author discusses "translating the book" in Chapter 11. I felt the energy building leading to this event. Myself; I read these pages five times in order to completely comprehend what the author was revealing. Not that it was difficult to understand but rather mind boggling to take it all in at one time.Once all of the information has been disclosed; the author uses a nifty technique of briefly reviewing each piece and how it fits into the bigger picture. He calls it "Putting the Puzzle Together".I was on the trip and experienced the same things the author did. I can attest to the truthfulness and accuracy of the events and observations described in the book. They happened as the author says.The author carefully states that "he does not believe in compromising the Word of God in any way; shape or form". But perhaps God has much more to reveal to us opening more revelation to each of us.He concludes by discussing what these discoveries and revelations mean to him and to everyone who takes the time to consider the worthiness of the evidence presented. He leaves each of us with a challenge.I close with a concluding quote by the author:"This has truly been an interesting journey; one of unsuspecting revelation and struggle. No doubt there will be some who question our evidence and rightly so. I was; and still am in some cases; one of those who doubt. As I have heard many say before; until you have been there; felt the hand of God on the journey; seen doors open to clear the path; and felt the joy that comes from following His lead; then I encourage you to at least consider the worthiness of the evidence. Just as I have doubted the opportunity of salvation through Jesus Christ; I am truly joyful that I opened up my eyes and my heart to His eternal assurance. My only regret is that I didn't do that earlier in my life. I pray this analogy enlightens your understanding".1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Once I started I couldn't put the book down. ...By Arlene TaylorOnce I started I couldn't put the book down. It followed the Bible verses word for word. Very informative. I'm sure there's more to come. can't wait.
