Rose McConnell Dorsey

1874–1952. barnwell, south carolina

Rose McConnell Dorsey was born on August 3, 1874, in Williamsburg County. She worked as a domestic and was married to Hampton Dorsey.

  • Father: Singleton Arat

    Mother: Susie McDonald

    Spouse: Hampton Dorsey

    Children: Lucille

    Estella

    Furney

    Cornelia

    Sarah

    Neda Dorsey-Teague

  • Place of Death: Williamsburg Co., Rural

    Full Name: Rose McDonald Dorsey

    Sex: Female

    Color or Race: Negro

    Marital Status: Married

    Date of Birth: Aug 3, 1874

    Age: 78

    Occupation: Domestic

    Birthplace: Williamsburg Co., S.C.

    Father: Singleton Arat

    Mother's Maiden Name: Susie McDonald

    Husband: Hampton Dorsey

    Date of Death: June 30, 1952

    Cause of Death: Heart Condition, Arteriosclerosis

    Informant: Hampton Dorsey

    Place of Burial: Arat Cemetery, Near Old Rhem Plantation

    Date of Burial: July 3, 1952

    Undertaker: Lithman Dorsey, Kingstree, S.C.

    Date Filed: July 15, 1952

  • Her official record indicates that her passing was caused by an acute heart condition stemming from long-standing arteriosclerosis. Characterized by the progressive hardening and thickening of the arterial walls, arteriosclerosis restricts healthy blood circulation and places immense strain on the cardiovascular system over time.

    Reaching the advanced age of 78, Rose's record reflects the typical age-related chronic health challenges experienced by the elder generation of the Mingo community during the mid-20th century, culminating in a gradual decline in heart health.

  • Though recorded under the clerical error "McDonald," civil records reveal that Rosa’s mother, Susie, was a servant likely formerly enslaved in the household of Jane P. McConnell.

    This is the very same Jane P. McConnell whose 1866 will documented the names of Dinah, Peggy, Sarah Ann, and Henry.

    This discovery uncovers a deep, systemic connection: Rosa Dorsey (wife of Hampton, daughter-in-law of Grace) was the daughter of a woman who served the exact same family that bound her husband's ancestors. Through marriage, two families separately tied to the McConnells became one.

  • We are actively seeking documentation to complete these records. If you have access to official records, family documents, or photos that could assist in our research, please contact us at ourmahoganyheritage@gmail.com.