The Bennett Family Reunion 1973 was the realization of the vision of two passionate organizers, Mr. Carnell Bennett and Mrs. Georgia Bennett. The first reunion celebration was held the first weekend in August 1973, in the backyard of Preston and Mattie Bennett’s home with worship service at St. Matthew Methodist Church.
Reunion participants consisted of the direct descendants of Preston and Mattie Bennett and the celebration was later joined by the direct descendants of Erias and Bessie. Preston and Erias were brothers who married sisters (Mattie and Bessie). All direct descendants are deceased.
The family lineage actually began with Berry and Barbina Bennett, parents of Preston and Erias Bennett. According to the official United States census taken on the 15th and 16th of June 1880, Berry and Barbina were inhabitants of Austin Township, County of Greenville, South Carolina. At that time (1880) Berry was 55 and Barbina was age 40. The records reflect there were six children in the family at that time. And while there are some missing statistics in the official US Census data, we know that Preston and Erias were born sometime after the census report of 1880. The official statistics reflect that Berry and Barbina did, indeed, live a humble life, Berry, a farmer, Barbina, a housekeeper, and Jovan, the oldest child, was a farm laborer.
Descendents of Berry and Barbina Bennett
William
Lillie
Hiram
Jovan
Preston
Erias
Arthur
Nancy
„A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.“
Marcus Garvey
The Bennett Family has cultivated a rich and enduring legacy, one that has been celebrated through family reunions since 1973. These gatherings are a testament to the importance of unity, heritage, and shared experiences that bind generations together. In a world that is ever-changing, the strength and support found within family remain constant, offering a foundation upon which each member can build. The bonds of family are not just about blood relations but about the collective love, wisdom, and traditions that pass from one generation to the next. For the Bennett Family, this connection to history is a source of pride and serves as a reminder of the strength that lies in our shared roots.
As we look to the future, the Bennett Family stands on the shoulders of those who came before us, ready to face new opportunities and challenges with confidence and optimism. Our long and storied history provides us with a roadmap for continued success, showing us that by staying united, we can overcome any obstacle. The future is bright for our family, filled with promise, innovation, and new accomplishments. Together, we will continue to grow, honoring our past while forging ahead to create a legacy that future generations will be proud of. The Bennett Family's future is one of hope, resilience, and boundless potential.
„There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues are created, strengthened, and maintained.“
WINSTON CHURCHILL