Besa Saka Historical Research and Preservation Advisory Council

Mission

Serving as a historical framework and guide for the Shelton Heritage Society, the Besa Saka Historical Research and Preservation Advisory Council supports and informs the society’s heritage initiatives, historical preservation, and research pertaining to the Shelton family legacy. Drawing together a distinguished group of experts in history, genealogy, research, mediation, restorative practices, and historic preservation, the council is named after the Ghanaian Adinkra symbol that represents commitment, unity, respect, abundance, and hard work. Through collaborative research, preservation efforts and/or community engagement, the growing council is committed to ensuring that the history and historical sites connected to our ancestors are honored and protected.

  • Dr. Shelley Murphy

    Virginia Genealogy Expert; Descendant Project Researcher, University of Virginia; Coordinator of Genealogy Education, International African American Museum (IAAAM); Panelist, BlackProGen Live!

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  • Karen Branan

    Veteran Journalist, Author; Racial Equity Advocate - Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) Partner - Community Remembrance Projects; Author, The Family Tree: A Lynching in Georgia, a Legacy of Secrets, and My Search for the Truth

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  • Clevlyn Anderson

    Corresponding Secretary, Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society (AAHGS) - Metro Atlanta; Board Member, Noxubee County Historical Society (Mississippi); Recipient, 2023 Paul Edward Sluby Sr. African American Scholarship - BCG

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  • Selena Tilley

    Director, Rome Area History Musum - Rome, Georgia; Rome, Georgia History Expert; Lecturer; Rome, Georgia Native

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  • Beverly Foster

    Founder/President, Walker County African American Museum and Multicultural Center & Walker County African American Historical and Alumni Association, Inc. (WCAAHAA); Northwest Georgia Historian; Author

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  • Sherre Harrington

    Director Emerita, Memorial Library - Berry College; Former. Member, Collaborative Preservation/Advocacy Team for Shelton Family History at Possum Trot; Founder & Former Curator, LibGuide - Shelton Family Settlement at Possum Trot

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