The Melungeons
“This thorough ethnoloical study is both scholorly and highly readable. In it the author objectively traces the roots of one of America’s more obscure peoples, the Melungeons. Numerous theories exist for the origin of these people, who are not black nor white nor Indian. In the work, Ball discusses the various theories, their strengths and weaknesses, and the plausibilities of each.
These theories include the roles of Sir Walter Raleigh’s “Lost Colony,” shipwrecked Portuguese sailors, followers of Spain’s Fernando de Soto who were left behind in America, various Native American tribes, and black slaves in the Melungeon ancestry. The author has included a comprehensive list of “Some Suggested Reading” to provide the broadest possible range of informaton. This work is a must-have for anyone interested in early Appalachian history and ethnic development in America.
Bonnie Bell’s interest in the Melungeons began early in life on her parents’ farm in Stickleyville, Virginia. Her father was well-acquainted with the Melungeons from his boyhood, spent near the Newman Ridge Melungeon settlement in Hancock County, Tennessee. He held in high regard their knowledge of plant and animal life, both wild and domesticated. At his invitation, two Melungeon families took up permanent residence on his land, helping to cultivate soil and livestock. Mrs. Ball later taught the offspring of these and other Melungeon families in the local school.
Now deceased, Mrs. Ball taught elementary school in Scott, Dickenson, and Buchanan Counties. She was also the author of numerous articles, poems, and small books. Wife of Palmer R. Ball, the mother of three, and a grandmother, she remained active in the D.A.R., the U.D.C., her church and various historical societies.