Granddaughter of the Instigator
We get many names during our lives, some given to us and some assumed. I didn’t ask for “granddaughter of the instigator,” but it’s true.
Here’s the origin story:
Granddaughter of the Instigator, Massacres in the South, Reconstruction in Mississippi, Salvation South Magazine, Vicksburg Massacres
Marie A Bailey
Do keep sharing your story. We are repeating history: “The Scoundrel’s Bovina Club was forthright in its mission: “This is a white man’s country, and must be ruled by white men.”” What happened then is happening now. We might not be having massacres per se, but we’re pretty darn close to it.
Ellen Morris Prewitt
You are so right–I just read an article about how the “respectability” of mouthing racist opinions has skyrocketed. Duh. Where we are is where we have been.
Joanne Corey
Such an amazing piece, Ellen! I’m planning to share it on my blog for Juneteenth, because that seems fitting. Thank you, Ellen, for your witness and your powerful writing.
Ellen Morris Prewitt
Oh thank you, Joanne, for wanting to share my words! Salvation South chose to put the essay in the Juneteenth issue of the magazine, though it was ready earlier. So, yes, that seems a fitting day to share. 🙏
Joanne Corey
Here’s the link to my blog post: https://joannecorey.com/2025/06/19/new-essay-by-ellen-morris-prewitt/. Hope it will get a few more eyes on your incredible work, Ellen!
Ellen Morris Prewitt
Thank you so much! And I’ve shared your share. 😄 Teamwork!
Joanne Corey
<3
Donna
Incredible story, Ellen! Brava for standing up.
Ellen Morris Prewitt
Thank you, Donna–don’t know why this comment was so late coming through and thus my reply. I appreciate your reading the essay!