My interest in my family history was inspired by my maternal grandmother, Mary Ellen (Boyd) Wallace. After I graduated from college, I worked for a company in my hometown. I would go to Grandma’s for lunch every day. She made her (in)famous tuna sandwiches and told me stories about her family. These stories were told to her by her mother, who learned the stories from her mother. Grandma said she remembered her father and uncles sitting on the porch telling stories. In the “good ol’ days” they didn’t have television or computers or iPhones for entertainment.

During this time, France ruled Alsace, though the cultural identity remained deeply Alsatian, with Germanic roots and dialects still strong. They were a proud German people from Kruth, a small isolated village tucked into the Thur Valley, surrounded by the Vosges Mountains, with steep slopes, dense pine forests, and narrow paths connecting it to neighboring hamlets.

The 1850s saw increasing emigration from Alsace, including families from Kruth. Economic hardship, land scarcity, and political uncertainty (especially after the 1848 revolutions) pushed many to seek new lives in America. Both families acquired a great deal of land and prospered in farming and ranching. Today, these same families are still farming and ranching. They continue to work on the same land that the first Bitterly and Jacobs acquired when they came to Texas.

The discovery of my Ancestral Legacy has been a truly enlightening journey. As I delved into the rich tapestry of my family history, I unearthed fascinating stories of courage, resilience, and triumph. Exploring the traditions and customs of my ancestors has given me a deeper understanding of who I am. It has shown me where I come from. Each discovery, whether through historical records or personal anecdotes, has painted a vivid picture. Embracing my Ancestral Legacy has added a profound layer of meaning to my life. It connects me to a lineage of remarkable individuals. Their influence continues to resonate through the ages.

Thank you, Henry and Agathe, and Joseph and Anne Marie. And thank you, Grandma, for their stories.

I encourage you and your family to explore the journey of your ancestors. I hope it brings you the same connection to your past as it has for me. Delving into their stories can offer a deeper understanding of your roots. It can also give you a profound sense of belonging. Embracing this exploration can foster a stronger bond with your heritage and ignite a renewed appreciation for the legacy that has shaped you.

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