Week 3:
The theme for Week 3 is “Nickname.” Nicknames can hint to a person’s
personality, occupation, or appearance. But be careful to not always take them
literally! (Think of all the burly guys nicknamed “Tiny!”) Sometimes they have
an “origin story” – like “Coco,” a classmate of mine. She got the nickname
because her little brother couldn’t pronounce her real name (Colleen). Which of
your ancestors had a nickname? Do you know how they got it?
So now let’s meet Percy’s (from week 1) wife. Celestia
Dalton Woodard. Celestia was better known by her nickname Lessie.
Celestia Dalton Woodard,
affectionately known as "Lessie," was born on August 18, 1876, in the
small town of Waltertown, located in Ware County, Georgia. Raised in the rustic
charm of the region, Lessie spent her early years surrounded by the love and
support of her family.
By 1880, at the age of four,
Lessie’s family had moved to Pierce County, Georgia. Her formative years were
shaped by this rural community, which instilled in her a sense of resilience
and a deep connection to her roots.
At 19, Lessie embarked on a new
chapter of her life when she married Percy Scott Archibald on November 20,
1895, in Ware County. Percy, born in 1867, became her devoted partner. The
couple made their home in Waycross, residing with her Aunt and Uncle,
Willoughby and Mary Cason. Mary, the sister of Lessie's mother Elizabeth
Butler, provided a familial haven during this early phase of their marriage.
Lessie and Percy were blessed with
four children who brought joy and purpose to their lives:
- Marybelle Archibald
(1899–1953)
- Sadie Archibald
(1902–1984)
- Willoughby Newton Archibald (1904–1965)
- Percy Archibald
(1906–1909), who tragically passed away at a young age.
The loss of Percy in 1908 marked a
difficult period for Lessie, but she remained strong for her children.
In 1910, Lessie found love again and
married Edward Parker Fairchild on March 31. Edward, born in 1886, was nearly a
decade younger than Lessie, but their bond was strong. They celebrated their
union with a honeymoon in the beautiful city of St. Augustine, Florida.
Lessie and Edward expanded their
family with two more children:
- Pearl Fairchild
(1911–1999)
- E Parker Fairchild
(1912–1969)
The Fairchild family continued to
live in Waycross, where Lessie embraced her role as a wife and mother.
Social Life in Waycross, Georgia (1900-1910)
During the early 20th century, Waycross was a bustling hub in southeastern
Georgia. As a growing railroad town, it became a focal point for social and
economic activity. Social life in Waycross was vibrant, with a strong sense of
community and frequent gatherings. Families like the Archibalds and Fairchilds
likely participated in church events, which were central to social life.
Churches were not only places of worship but also venues for social gatherings,
picnics, and charitable events.
Community events often included fairs, parades, and markets, which were
opportunities for residents to connect and celebrate local culture. The
railroad brought a mix of people and ideas, contributing to the town's dynamic
social atmosphere.
For women like Lessie, social clubs and organizations provided a space to
engage with other women in the community. These clubs often focused on civic
improvement, education, and support for local families. Lessie's involvement in
such activities would have helped her maintain a strong network of friends and
acquaintances.
The turn of the century was also a time of transition, with advancements in
technology and transportation beginning to influence daily life. This era's
social fabric was woven with traditional values and a spirit of progress,
creating a lively and connected community in Waycross.
As the 1930s began, Lessie remained a cornerstone of her household,
supporting Parker and contributing to their home life. By this time, she was in
her mid-50s, still living in Waycross, which had become her lifelong home.
Lessie’s life came to a peaceful close on July 31, 1935, in Waycross. She
left behind a legacy of love, strength, and family devotion. Her final resting
place is in Lott Cemetery, where she remains a beloved figure in the town she
called home.
.
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