Jane Ellis

DeGenira Jane Buttram married U.S. Ellis on March 29, 1879. They lived in McMinn and Cumberland Counties before settling in Rhea County on a farm north of Dayton given to DeGenira Jane by her father. It was in the Walnut Grove Community. (The old home place burned a few years ago while Bill and Iva Ellis lived there.) Family reunions in this large family were a yearly affair and family members came from Ala., Fla., and Ky. with all their children and grandchildren to join with brothers and sisters and their families. A photographer always came to record the event.

Grandmother Ellis was tall, slender and for an elderly lady very erect. In her later years, she spent much of her time caring for her flowers. Dahlias, hollyhocks, sunflowers and sweet peas grew in profusion in her flower beds. In the winter months, potted plants would line the window sills in her home. She would sit by the fireplace piecing a quilt. While visiting her house, not only were you able to see her, but often the numerous aunts, uncles and cousins who lived near her would be there.

In her older days she sat quiet and stately in "her room" in "her rocker" and received her visitors. Just being together, the conversation was little. In the dining room there was a large dining table with left over foods pushed to the corner and a white cloth covering them. You could always find a snack there. (Grandchild)

She certainly was a very wonderful woman, a very fine, highly intelligent woman with a kind and gentle sweet face. She was about 5 feet, 8 inches tall, possibly a little taller, and it was my good pleasure to know her for close to 30 years, possibly longer. I had a group picture of Uncle Sam, Aunt Jane and their family made about 1900-2, and I sent it to Frank Ellis about ten or twelve years ago - a distinguished group.

My memory of Aunt Jane Ellis is very clear and very beautiful. I once visited with Frank and Foster Ellis and stayed a whole week with them, and Aunt Jane certainly was a wonderful woman. GREAT111 (Foster Harmon)