The family reunion has not taken place since 2020, so this gathering was much needed!! Not only were we together but we also traveled back to the Josiah Henson Park & Museum in North Bethesda, Maryland for this gathering. We met some new cousins as well; some have been having Henson reunions for over 50 years, some grew up in the North Bethesda area not far from the Riley Plantation and others have not been to a reunion in over 20 years, if at all.
Prior to the family arriving on Thursday, August 11th, Mia Anderson, Michelle Roberts and Rick Dunham was there Wednesday to ensure things were set for the family arrival by purchasing snacks and rearranging the hospitality suite. The reunion committee stuffed additional items into the goodie bags donated by Montgomery County and Josiah Henson Museum & Park. Once family started arriving in the hospitality suite there were many hugs and conversations. Michelle, Leslie Green and Teresa Patterson-Jackson manned the registration table. Every registered adult received a lanyard and name tag plus a filled canvas tote bag which included a Josiah Henson face mask, Josiah Henson button, cup, water bottle, pens and much more. Leslie and Teresa sold raffle tickets, one for prizes and the other for 50/50 cash. Many were vying for the grand prize of a decorative box filled with 10 Josiah Henson books, estimated at $500. We met Teresa Williams-Malone, Jeanette Patterson and Rhonda Washington for the first time as their Henson branch have been hosting reunions for over 50 years. In July of 2022, they had a reunion in Dallas, Texas. We also met Donna Curry, who has not been to a reunion in over 20 years. She told stories of the past and how she enjoyed talking with Walter Dean. To cap off the night, many went to dinner and explored the amenities and entertainment annex surrounding the hotel. The Dean family and Sean Collins & Diana were among the last to arrive due to closed highways. Luckily, they found their way. Michelle opened the hospitality suite for them close to midnight so they could get snacks since the hotel restaurant was closed.
Every morning the hospitality suite was open for water, tea, coffee and pastries. On Friday, many family members visited Washington, D.C. to explore the capital. Later in the day, we gathered at the Josiah Henson Museum for trivia fun. A beautiful portrait of Josiah Henson greeted everyone as they entered the museum; it was painted by our cousin Mark Simmons, Jr. Many were in line to purchase books, t-shirts and other keepsakes from the museum store. We feasted on pizza, popcorn and pop (or soda – depending on where you’re from). First, we watched a 12-minute introductory video the museum plays when visitors arrive for a tour. THEN, Black History Trivia. Teresa, Leslie and Mia along with Nilaya hosted the game. Our cousin Damon Green created some Josiah Henson trivia questions to add to the pile. Teams took turns playing other teams. Eventually, a team was crowned the Smartest People in the Room: Sean, Diana, Scott, Teresa, Rhonda and Jeanette. The Museum gifted the family with etched wooden squares with messages from visitors to the museum. These squares when put together display an image of Josiah Henson.
Saturday was a bright, beautiful and hot day. There were volunteers along with the museum staff to ensure this year’s reunion was a success. The day started early for the Reunion Committee as they had to set up and wait for the caterer’s arrival. Family started trickling in just before noon. First cousins, Kevin and Bernardine Henson arrived; they grew up in the Bethesda area. Kevin shared their Henson-White family tree. The festivities started with Mia welcoming the family to the land where our ancestor, Josiah Henson, was enslaved for over 30 years. Leslie introduced the special guest speakers. Some members of the Riley family were present as well as the archeologist team. The archeologist displayed some of the artifacts they found on the land. The team actively surveyed the land. Once the presentations were done, Terrence Vick blessed the food, and everyone started to get in line. There were pork ribs, pulled chicken, beef brisket, mac and cheese, baked beans, potato salad, and green beans. There was plenty for seconds and for the museum staff and volunteers.
Once lunch was done, Kristel Anthony did the dedication and encouraged family members to do their own family tree to share at the arts and craft table. When the dedication was over, some went to explore the grounds and museum, played games like corn hole, horseshoes, cards and Jenga. There were sport challenges as well, like sack, egg & spoon and relay races, and TUG-OF-WAR!!
On Sunday, the family gathered for breakfast prior to departure. There were many who spoke and prayed for the family. Plus, Bethany surprised a shy Jayden with a cake for his 13th birthday.
Check out the news coverage we received here.