Rosena White

1865–1937. barnwell, south carolina

Rosena White (née Ester) was born in 1865 to Joseph Hicks and Elvira Ester. She married Jeff White (born 1848), and they raised six children: Francis, David, Erwin, Hattie, Martha, and the Rev. Frank White. Rosena passed away on July 20, 1937.

  • Mother: Elvira Ester

    Father: Joseph Hicks

    Spouse: Jeff White

    Children: Francis, David, Erwin, Hattie, Martha and Rev. Frank White

  • Place of Death: Williamsburg Co., S.C.

    Full Name: Rosena White

    Sex: Female

    Color or Race: Negro

    Marital Status: Married

    Date of Birth: 1865

    Age: 72 years

    Occupation: Not Specified

    Birthplace: Barnwell Co., S.C.

    Father: Joseph Hicks

    Mother's Maiden Name: Elvira Ester

    Date of Death: July 20, 1937

    Cause of Death: Stroke, Paralysis (no doctor in attendance)

    Informant: Frank White

    Place of Burial or Removal: Mill Pond

    Date Filed: July 24, 1937

  • Her death certificate identifies the cause of death as a stroke accompanied by paralysis.

    In 1937, medical understanding of cardiovascular health and stroke recovery was significantly limited, particularly within rural communities. With no specialized neurological care, physical rehabilitation, or modern medical interventions available, her family was required to navigate the immense physical and emotional challenges of her condition entirely through home based care.

    The notation of "no doctor" in attendance serves as a poignant reminder of the systemic barriers and the harsh reality of the healthcare landscape for many families during that era.

  • Naming Discrepancies: The archival record lists "Elvira" in the mother’s name field, appearing in both the birth and maternal context of the documentation.

    Kinship Lineage: Rosena is a key figure within the established Hext-Dorsey kinship network. Her inclusion is supported by the research of Tanya Jones, which serves to validate her place in the family history, ensuring this lineage is preserved despite the historical denials found in fragmented public documents.

  • 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.