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I am a White Bethea and agree that the Whites and Blacks can work together to learn about our most likely common orgins in the United States. I have met a couple of Black Betheas while living near Washington, D.C.. Each one could trace their family to Marion or Dillon Counties, in South Carolina. I went many years ago to research my family in Marion County. I went to the County Library and told them what I was their for. They couldn't of been nicer...The young man invited me into the South Carolina Room and told me to wait till a lady (I wish I could remember her name)came to assist me. She was a elderly Black Lady and she knew all about the White Betheas, I wonder how much she knows of the Black Betheas?
I also learned during that trip that White Betheas have a Reunion every other year (even years) on Fathers Day Weekend. I went to my first Reunion 5 years ago. While I was their there were a number of Black Betheas visiting old friends and neighbors. It was very interesting. I have the address and phone number of the Marion County Library:
101 SE Court St
Marion, SC 29571
(843) 423-8300
If you can spend a day their I'm sure you would come out of their with allot of info. I was told that there is a Black Bethea Reunion also. It is held in Dillon, SC. I'm sorry but I don't know when.
I saw my first Black Bethea on TV, his name is Elvin Bethea, he played for the Houston Oilers Football team. Since I was a kid I asked my father about this and he explained that his father told him that when the slaves were freed many took their Masters names out of respect and because they felt like part of the family. If they didn't feel anything for their Master they would pick another name. I have not been able to confirm this but it makes since.
I hope the Marion County Library can help you in your search for Information.
Best Regards
Larry
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