News Summary
Join the Elizabethton-Carter County Library on March 22, 2025, for a special book review event featuring Roger L. Bowers’ ‘Descendants of Leonard Bowers.’ Dive deep into over 200 years of family history exploring lineage, personal stories, and community heritage. This engaging experience, complete with insights from genealogy expert Peggy Britt Henderson, invites everyone interested in family histories to discover their own roots.
Exciting Book Review Event in Elizabethton: Discover a Family Legacy
Mark your calendars, folks! On March 22, 2025, the Elizabethton-Carter County Library is gearing up to host a remarkable book review event that will take you on a journey back through time! Roger L. Bowers will unveil his passion project, “Descendants of Leonard Bowers,” in the cozy Nelson Room from 1 to 3 p.m. This fascinating book dives into the lineage of one of the earliest members of the Bowers family to settle in the region.
Meet Leonard Bowers: The Family Pioneer
For those who may not know, Leonard Bowers is quite an extraordinary figure in the Bowers family tree. Born in 1760, Leonard carved a path through history as he became the first Bowers to arrive in the Watauga Settlement back in 1782. This man didn’t just sit around either; he served honorably in the Revolutionary War for three whole years! Talk about a family hero!
In 1785, Leonard tied the knot with his partner Rebecca Nave, and together they raised an impressive family of 14 children on a sprawling 100-acre farm in Elizabethton. Imagine the lively household they must have had! Leonard and Rebecca enjoyed a long life together, leaving behind a rich family legacy that continues to thrive today. Both are resting peacefully in the Nave-Hess Cemetery in Siam, Carter County.
A Passion for Family History
Roger Bowers, now a sixth-generation grandson of Leonard, has transformed his family history research, which he began in the 1970s with his late wife, into a captivating over 500-page exploration of his ancestors. After losing his beloved Claire in 2016, Roger found new motivation to delve deep into the Bowers family saga, culminating in the publication of his book.
What Can You Expect at the Book Review?
The book review promises to be an exciting affair where stories of the past come alive! Roger will share insights from his book that documents over 200 years of Bowers family history in Carter County, starting with Leonard himself. The book includes a treasure chest of records such as births, deaths, marriages, wills, and even personal anecdotes, photos, and newspaper articles that paint a vivid picture of the Bowers family journey.
If you’re curious about your own genealogy, you’re in luck! Joining Roger at the review is Peggy Britt Henderson, a genealogy consultant with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Peggy will be on hand to help attendees with their family research, which could result in some surprising discoveries!
Get Your Copy!
Can’t wait for the big day? You don’t have to! Roger’s book is currently available for purchase at the Sycamore Shoals State Park gift shop, as well as online at Amazon.com and Kindle Books. This means you can start your exploration of the Bowers family history right away!
A Family Reunion Like No Other
On this special day, Roger is especially excited about the opportunity to reconnect with many family members who share the Bowers lineage. He describes himself as a “full-blooded Bowers,” with roots that run deep in this community. Growing up in the Blue Springs area, he remains proud of his heritage, and he’s eager to celebrate it with all who attend.
Roger is not just a historian; he wears many hats! He has spent a lifetime writing, having self-published three volumes of poetry and even writing and directing three one-act comedy plays. With such a vibrant background, attendees can look forward to an engaging and heartfelt experience at the book review.
So, whether you’re a Bowers descendant or just someone interested in family history, be sure to swing by the Elizabethton-Carter County Library on March 22nd. Join Roger Bowers as he takes us on an unforgettable voyage through time with the “Descendants of Leonard Bowers.” Who knows? You might discover a bit about your own past along the way!
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Additional Resources
- Elizabethton News
- Wikipedia: Leonard Bowers
- Elizabethton News
- Google Search: Leonard Bowers Genealogy
- Book Review Event Announcement
- Google Scholar: Leonard Bowers Family History
- Bowers Family Legacy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Revolutionary War Service
- Elizabethton-Carter County Library
- Google News: Roger Bowers Book Review
