105 years ago today my Great Grandmother Myrtle Christine Carpenter was born. After marriage she took on the surname Wideman. A mother of 3, Myrtle or as her family affectionately called her “Jenny” remains an integral part of our family more than 50 years after her passing.
When my family describes her they speak of a woman who was stern, strong willed and determined. She didn’t come off as a warm woman however her actions especially following the death of her husband exhibited someone with a strong moral character who placed family as the primary focus of attention. That legacy continues today. My mother tells me stories of how her Nana Myrtle would struggle to help keep the family fed by cleaning the homes of white people. A story that is quite similar to many of the stories of black women in the 50’s and 60’s. My family when speaking of her spoke about her no nonsense attitude and expectations she had not only for her children but for her grandchildren too. When my Grandmother Blanche was alive, she never really talked about her mom to me. I wish I would have asked questions and learned more about what life was like before her fathers passing.
Today on this 7th day of February I wish my Great Grandmother Myrtle a Happy Birthday in Heaven and honor her during Black History Month.
When my family describes her they speak of a woman who was stern, strong willed and determined. She didn’t come off as a warm woman however her actions especially following the death of her husband exhibited someone with a strong moral character who placed family as the primary focus of attention. That legacy continues today. My mother tells me stories of how her Nana Myrtle would struggle to help keep the family fed by cleaning the homes of white people. A story that is quite similar to many of the stories of black women in the 50’s and 60’s. My family when speaking of her spoke about her no nonsense attitude and expectations she had not only for her children but for her grandchildren too. When my Grandmother Blanche was alive, she never really talked about her mom to me. I wish I would have asked questions and learned more about what life was like before her fathers passing.
Today on this 7th day of February I wish my Great Grandmother Myrtle a Happy Birthday in Heaven and honor her during Black History Month.
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