Amanda Pevey
Elmore Autauga News
Family historian, U.S. Army veteran and Daughters of the American Revolution member True Lewis invited Elmore County residents to reflect on their shared past Thursday as she traced her family’s roots to the nation’s founding during a community presentation marking America’s 250th anniversary.
Lewis presented “My True Roots to the American Revolution” on Feb. 26 as part of the Elmore County 250 commemoration. The free program, was open to the public, combined documented history, genealogy research and personal family stories to explore her direct connections to the Revolutionary era and the broader American story.
Her presentation is one of several local events tied to the nationwide observance of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence.
Lewis told attendees that her own life story is intertwined with pivotal moments in American history. Born April 3, 1968, one day after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., she described growing up during a time of national turmoil, including the Vietnam War and racial tensions.
“I was born between two moments in history, Dr. King’s last speech and his funeral,” she said. “When one life was taken, another was given.”
At age 9, Lewis said she began to fully understand her family connections, a realization that sparked her lifelong passion for genealogy.
“In 1977, when I was 9, I started realizing who I was,” she said. “That’s really where my beginning happened.”
By sharing her family’s Revolutionary War lineage alongside her personal journey, Lewis encouraged community members to explore their own histories and consider how individual stories contribute to the nation’s narrative.
As Elmore County continues its 250th anniversary observances, Lewis’ message underscored a central theme of the commemoration: understanding the past not only honors those who came before but also strengthens the community’s connection to America’s enduring story.
For events and information visit https://elmoreco250.org.
