From Humble Beginnings to Flourishing Futures

From slavery to prosperous real estate owner and farmer, is how the legend begins. It is with deep pride, love and fellowship of our fore-parents that we celebrate the family of William Mack and Emma Blackmon. We trust his heritage will be a source of strength as we keep the tree growing.

Everyday we want to pay tribute to William Mack and Emma and their families before them in our conduct, respect and the love we show ourselves, each other and our fellowman. This was a devoted, loving understanding and Christian couple. Mack Blackmon was the organizer and first Deacon of Pleasant Grove Church in Lancaster, South Carolina.


For many years they gave much of their energy and resources to the community. Their leadership was a moving force of great benefit in making life for many people much better.

Mack labored long hours in the fields and Emma worked endless hours in the home, caring for the children and spinning yarn to make their clothes.

God blessed them and they prospered -- both materially and financially.

During the Great Depression, they shared much of their wealth with their children, sharecroppers and the needy.

At Mack's demise, their 614 acres of land were divided among his surviving children. Also, each child received a large sum of money (estimated $1,000).

In summation, Emma and Mack's lives were ones of achievement and excellence. They founded a church in which their African American brothers and sisters could worship God. They gave employment opportunities to farmers by supplying funds, materials and supplies. They gave of their time, talent and devotion to help their neighbors.

May we strive to imitate them and the ultimate exemplar of our faith, Jesus Christ, in our everyday actions and dealings with our neighbors.

May Their Tree Continue to Grow & Be Blessed!