Early Life of Mary Hollis
The Long family’s roots in Lee County, Alabama, trace back to Mary Hollis Long, whose grandfather was George Rogers. George’s father was William Rogers, whose mother, Katy Pettit, was an early Cherokee settler. Katy Pettit’s lineage is significant, as she was recognized as an “Old Settler Cherokee,” meaning she was among the Cherokee who voluntarily relocated to Arkansas before the forced removal known as the Trail of Tears.
She was raised in the Salem area, attending local schools and becoming an active member of the community. Mary’s lineage traces back to early settlers in Lee County, with her family deeply rooted in the region’s history.
Marriage to Henry Long
Mary married Henry Long, a lifelong resident of Lee County. Together, they established a family that would become integral to the local community.
Children of Mary and Henry Long
Mary and Henry had several children, many of whom remained in Lee County and contributed to its development. Their children include:
- Calvin Grady Long – Born circa 1938, Calvin was a lifelong resident of Salem, Alabama. He passed away on June 28, 2021, at the age of 83. His obituary highlights his deep ties to the community and his family’s longstanding presence in the region.
- Sarah Long – While specific details about Sarah Long are limited in the available records, she is recognized as one of the children of Henry Long and Mary Hollis.
- Claudine Long – Information on Claudine is similarly scarce in public records; however, she is acknowledged as a member of the Long family lineage in Lee County.
- Eddie Frank Long – Eddie Frank Long, Sr., was a resident of Salem, Alabama, and passed away in April 2007. He was married to Hazel Bufford Turner.
- Hazel Long – Hazel Bufford Turner Long was born in 1932 and passed away in 2013. She was married to Eddie Frank Long, Sr.
- James Aubrey Long – Born February 2, 1948; passed away February 20, 2022. He was a lifelong plumber, avid bass fisherman, and resided in Ellerslie, Georgia.
- Joyce Egglton – Deceased.(FamilySearch)
- Marie Bulloch – Deceased.(All Things Cherokee)
- Jane Long – Deceased.
- Dorothy Waldrop – Deceased.(Ancestry)
- Sheryll Davidson – Surviving.
The Long Family Legacy and Cherokee Heritage
Ancestral Lineage
The Long family’s roots in Lee County, Alabama, trace back to Mary Hollis, whose grandfather was George Rogers. George’s father was William Rogers, whose mother, Katy Pettit, was an early Cherokee settler. Katy Pettit’s lineage is significant, as she was recognized as an “Old Settler Cherokee,” meaning she was among the Cherokee who voluntarily relocated to Arkansas before the forced removal known as the Trail of Tears.
Legal Recognition of Cherokee Ancestry
In 1888, a special master’s ruling recognized the Cherokee heritage of Katy Pettit’s descendants. This legal acknowledgment affirmed their status as Cherokee by blood, despite not being enrolled in the Cherokee Nation at that timedue to disenfranchisement because of the Dawes Rolls which omitted the names of Old Settlers whom were deceased by the year 1908. This ruling is a testament to the family’s enduring connection to their Cherokee roots.
Property at 204 Lee Road 334, Salem, Alabama
Historical Significance
The property at 204 Lee Road 334, Salem, Alabama, has been associated with the Long family for generations. While specific details about the property’s history are limited, its longstanding connection to the family underscores the deep ties the Longs have to the Salem community.
Current Status
Sale and Development of 204 Lee Road 334, Salem, Alabama
The descendants of Mary Hollis Long collectively petitioned to sell the family property at 204 Lee Road 334, Salem, AL, following the tradition of consensus decision-making common in many tribal clans. After receiving approval from all involved family members, the property was sold to Gery O’Neal, a trusted friend of the family.
Following the sale, Mr. O’Neal developed the land by constructing two new homes, each featuring an identical layout with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. This development represents a new chapter for the property—transitioning from a multi-generational family homestead to modern residences, while honoring the family’s longstanding ties to the Salem community.
The Echota Cherokee Tribe of Alabama
The Echota Cherokee Tribe of Alabama is a state-recognized tribe based in northern Alabama. The tribe claims descent from Cherokee ancestors who remained in the southeastern United States after the Trail of Tears. While not federally recognized, the Echota Cherokee Tribe plays an active role in preserving and promoting Cherokee heritage and culture in Alabama.
📚 Featured in Local History Publications
The Long family is prominently featured in the book “The Heritage of Lee County, Alabama”, published in 2000 by the Lee County Heritage Book Committee. This comprehensive volume provides detailed accounts of the area’s early settlers, including the Long family, and chronicles their roles in shaping the county’s history.Google Books
Additionally, the “Lee County, Alabama Family History Book” offers personal narratives and genealogical information about families from the region, including the Longs. This book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the familial connections and histories that have influenced Lee County’s development.
🏡 The Long Family’s Contribution to Lee County
The Long family’s presence in Lee County dates back several generations. Their involvement in local affairs, agriculture, and community building has left an indelible mark on the area. Through their participation in civic activities and support for local institutions, the Longs have played a pivotal role in the county’s growth and prosperity.
