OUR FAMILY TREE~~It's what made you and me~~From shore to sandy shore, our  ancestors sailed, surviving on the dreams they had for us...centuries away.  They breathed the courage of kings and queens and held onto their grace. They  sacrified untold moments and dignities so that we could someday have it all.  This is the love we come from, it's the love that substains us, it's the love  that flows on and on...carrying us through eternity! "LOVE ONE ANOTHER AS I  HAVE LOVED YOU~~" May seem impossible to do, but if you will try to trust and  believe, great are the joys that you will receive. FAMILY means so many  things; words could never tell of the heartfelt pride or the feelings deep and  strong that makes us glad to play a part and know that we belong. GOD made us  a family~~ A special caring part of all that's near & dear and closest to the  heart. Together on life's journey~~Each day a memory. Thank you God for making  us a loving family!

WELCOME~~ family and friends, stop awhile to reminisce and to pleasantly  review happy little happenings and things you use to do; And unless we think  we're better than the FATHER up above, let us forgive our sisters and brothers  in understanding love.

In earlier days, it was an African-American custom for older adults to step in  when needed and raise children from multiple sources. "LO CHILDREN ARE THE  HERITAGE OF THE LORD; AND THE FRUIT OF THE WOMB IS THIS REWARD." Psalms 127:3.  My father, Paul Perry Polk, Sr., lost both of his parents (James Karl & Lizzie  Beth Muse-Polk) within a year of each other when he was around seven years  old. Paul and his siblings James (Jimmie) Polk, Jr., William (Bill) Polk, John  Henry (Buddy) Polk, Laura Muse-Polk, a first cousin; Lina Polk, and myself  (Bernita Polk) were all raised by their father's spirited, nuturing, God  fearing, and loving sister; Clara Jane Rachel Polk-Joseph.

From an early age, I've had a thirst for knowledge about my parents,  grandparents, and other relatives. I've learned a lot about my mother's  (Louise Berry-Polk) family. I lived with my maternal grandparents (Pearlena  Houston-Berry,aka Mother and Joseph Berry, aka Pops) for a year.

Unfortunately, my father's maternal family, (The Muses') remain mostly a  mystery. My father's sister, Laura Muse Polk-Perkins, located the Muses' in  Columbia, MO. back in the 1940's. I thought I would have my Aunt Laura forever  and would be able to ask my questions and learn to cook anytime!  Unfortunately, on Sept. 02, 1972, God saw fit to call her home and I missed a  great opportunity to learn of my heritage. There were other missed  opportunities, but I was so into the present; that I didn't take time to  inquire about the past. I'm making time now, because I want my children,  grandchildren, great-grandchildren, & the great-greats to know of our  wonderful heritage!

I'm no Alex Haley. I can't name all the names or place all the faces, but one  thing is definite; God has blessed our family abundantly. Our ancestors were  highly educated and professional people. They were Teachers, College  Professors, Architects, Bacteriologist, Medical Personal, Engineers,  Politicans, Lawyers & Judges; several had Military Careers. Our generation is  following in their footsteps! We excell in academics and numerous sports. We  are successfully represented in a wide spectrum of careers.

I was informed that one of our Muse forefathers was a slave, and being of big  stature; he was used as a stud. It is rumored that he sired over 100 children.  Hey, we are out there~~ and we have made an impact in this great nation!

Even though the main focus of my research started with and will remain, for  the present, on the Muses'. I will record any family information that is given  to me. It's important for us to recognize our roots. Family members I need  your help!

Ancestry is, in some cases based on circumstantial evidence; it's not always  possible to authenticate it fully. Official government records, census  reports, obits, and grave markers very seldom agree. I have recorded this  information in good faith. Please forgive any typos, omissions or mistakes.  Sign the Guest Book & post any questions, other family members may have  answers that I don't.

May GOD's love enfold you. May His peace surround you. May His light guide you!