The homecoming of Matilda Ruff’s descendants was epic! Remember the journey of Pat Burns, who found the note cards with names of formerly enslaved residents of Cobb in the cupboard of her home in the Concord Covered Bridge Historic District. Then, last June (a day before Juneteenth) Matilda Ruff was memorialized by FCCBHD, Cobb Parks and the community by installing the Toni Morrison Bench By Road Project.
Finally, Tanyah Cotton, a historian herself, reached out to claim her rightful place in Cobb–by Matilda’s Garden. And she brought with her 10 other family members.
I could write a long story, but why should I? Larry Felton Johnson so eloquently captured the history in the Cobb County Courier on the cusp of Black History Month. I encourage you to read the complete coverage here, https://cobbcountycourier.com/…/descendants-of…/
I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to learn and embrace the truths of the past. It can be painful, but it is worth it for understanding, empathy and the ability to move forward. In the words of Tanyah Cotton, “We have a shared past.”
Matilda and her son Calvin Ruff’s family were hosted at the home of another Concord Covered Bridge Historic District Board Member.
It is worth mentioning that we are planning another Juneteenth celebration in 2025, featuring Tanyah Cotton as the keynote speaker. We will follow up with details.