Polk County FL

Slave Narrative of Della Bess Hilyard

Della Bess Hilyard, born in 1858 in South Carolina, recounts her experiences as a slave on the Hiwards plantation. She describes her childhood spent working in the cotton fields alongside her parents, who were also slaves. Although they were allowed to seek education, no formal teaching was provided. Religious instruction focused on obedience rather than spiritual hope. After the Civil War, she married and relocated to Georgia, later moving to Florida. Now settled in Titusville, she reflects on her life as a remnant of a past era.

Polk County Florida Cemetery Records

This page lists known online cemetery transcriptions, burial records, and gravestone images for Polk County, Florida. Resources vary by cemetery and may include full surveys, partial records, mapping, or photographs. Links lead to external sites providing the available data.

McKenzie, Huela Van Mrs. – Obituary

Huela Van McKenzie, 79, of Baker City, Oregon, passed away on December 27, 2005. Born on February 11, 1926, in Plant City, Florida, she studied music at Florida Southern College and later became a homemaker, raising five children. Huela worked as a receptionist and clerical specialist in Portland. A devoted Christian and active member of St. Stephens Episcopal Church, she enjoyed music, sewing, and cooking. She is survived by her five children and fourteen grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be scheduled.