Welcome to "Through My Lens"
Where Ancestral Stories are Brought to Life...
Welcome to "Through My Lens," a personal journey through my family's history. My name is Eleanor Johnson Graham, and I've created this space to explore and share the fascinating stories of my ancestors. From the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia to the quaint streets of Bedford, VA, dubbed the 'World's Best Little Town' (WBLT), these narratives not only recount the tale of my lineage but also paint a vivid picture of the times they lived in. For eight generations, my direct line of ancestors has lived in Bedford County, VA.
As a genealogy enthusiast and an amateur photographer, I've always been captivated by the stories that make us who we are. Simple dates of birth and death were always less fascinating to me than visiting the places my ancestors lived, capturing these locations through my lens, and hearing the stories told by the "older folks." On this site, "Through My Lens" symbolizes not only the literal images captured by my camera but also the unique perspective through which I view and recount our family's past. Here, you'll find detailed stories accompanied by snapshots that bring my ancestral stories to life.
Each story here follows my direct ancestors, giving you a glimpse into their lives through historical events and personal triumphs. It's a line that connects directly to me, Eleanor Johnson Graham, and I invite you to explore these connections with me.
Join me as we step back in time to understand not just where we come from, but also how our ancestors' lives shape our stories today. Enjoy the vivid photographs accompanying each story, each one carefully chosen to enhance the tales told and bring our shared history to life. Feel free to reach out through the comments or contact me directly if you have stories to share or questions to ask. Let's make history together!
​
Through My Lens: Bringing Ancestral Stories to Life...
​
​
​
