The Caribbean Genealogy Library (CGL) will host Ruby Simmonds Esannason D.A., an enthusiastic genealogist and historian, at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 14, at the library. She is a native Virgin Islander.
Ruby Simmonds Esannason has spent years researching her family name – Simmonds — and that of her husband – Esannason — in addition to other families of the Virgin Islands. Her presentation on March 14, is entitled “From One Man… Many: The Esannasons of the Virgin Islands.”
While there are people with the name Esannason living all over the United States and the Caribbean, research shows that they are all descended from one man, Wilhelm Esannason, a man who was brought to St. Thomas in the Danish West Indies from the Coast of Africa around 1789.
For over 200 years, members of the Esannason family have been an integral part of the Virgin Islands community, having served in significant positions in the church and in government. They have preserved and promoted Virgin Islands culture through their various talents and have contributed to this and other communities in a number of ways.
This presentation will take a look at census records, church records, property records and other documents, including an 1817 will, that help to tell the fascinating story of the Esannasons of the Virgin Islands. Learn more about the event in the CGL Facebook page.
Attendance of library events is free for current library members. Non-members are welcomed; it is $5 for non-members. Support the library and enjoy the benefits by becoming a member. Membership options start at $40/year.
The Caribbean Genealogy Library’s mission is to identify, preserve and provide access to Caribbean genealogy, history and cultural heritage information resources for the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean. It is located in the Al Cohen’s Plaza (at the top of Raphune Hill) in building 3. The library is on the 2nd floor, above Paint Depot.
For more information, email caribgenlibrary@gmail.com, or leave a message at 714-2136.
