This blog is a tribute to this grand home and all those who who have ties to Laurelwood. As the grandaughter of Jasper Hampton Campbell who purchased Laurelwood in 1908, I have many wonderful memories as a young child visiting Laurelwood. We fondly called it "The Big House". There were Easter egg hunts on the front lawn, Christmas celebrations, Sunday dinners, and a lot of time rocking in the rocking chairs on the front porch as my aunts shared stories about life on the Laurelwood plantation. They talked to us about their experiences and shared stories that their parents told them of life and happenings in the lower richland area. Many of these stories have been forgotten. I hope to bring these great stories back to life and preserve them just as Laurelwood is being brought back to life and preserved. There are hidden treasures to be revealed. A legacy to be handed down and passed on.
Let me help you look past the physical imperfections that you notice on first glance to see the hidden beauty that's just waiting to be revealed once again. The stories and information shared here will link the past to the present. There is much to be learned and many memories to share so that all can see the true beauty of ....Laurelwood.

Monday, January 24, 2011

I get so excited when someone shares photos with me of family members, especially these older photos.  Aren't they incredible!!!  Below is a photo of Mary Julia Campbell who was a sister to Jasper Hampton Campbell.  She lived at Laurelwood from 1932 until she died in 1954.  
Photo courtesy of Florence Keels
Mary Julia married Rev. Samuel D. Bailey, pictured below.
Photo courtesy of Florence Keels
I was provided this information along with the photos from Mrs. Florence Keels who married the grandson of Mary Julia Campbell, the late Thomas Bailey Keels.  You may recognize Mary Julia's grandson as "Bunky" Keels who was famous as an entertainer/musician who played with The Blue Boys and Jim Reeves.  In the photo below he is playing the saxophone.
Photo credit Jim Reeves Fan Club
He also is on Chubby Checker's recording of the Twist!!!!!
I am so thankful for the opportunity to connect with Florence Keels and look forward to one day meeting her face to face.
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