I remember seeing Caroline Jackson when I was a small child. It seems as though any church service you attended in the area, she would be there. I was impressed by her dedication to serving God even at my early age, for I knew she often walked to get there.

Caroline was born on April 30, 1877. She married Robert "Bob" Jackson who was born on October 24, 1875. Bob was a photographer and had his own darkroom, something unusual for the area in that day and time. The camera was the type that you used flash powder with, and a hood that the photographer would drape over himself. Bob also repaired watches. The Jacksons also sold cloth and grew the usual garden crops of that day. One of their prize possessions was a Victrola record player. The Jacksons were considered wealthy by many of the Cherokees and others of that day.

Bob died before all of the children were grown. His son Wesley, who was partially blind found him lying in a trail to their yard on Jackson Branch. Bob had died of an apparent heart attack.

Caroline now faced the responsibility of raising the children by herself. To do so, she began doing washing and cleaning for people on Atoah, Massey Branch, Moose Branch, and other areas, walking to wherever the days work was to be. Two of her better known children were Ikie Jackson who became a minister, and Ed Jackson. Ed and his wife are also well known for having a family of outstanding athletes at Robbinsville High School.

Caroline spoke fluent English and was said to have picked it up mostly on her own. Caroline was a member of New Hope Baptist Church until near her death. At the time of her death, Caroline was a member of Zion Hill Baptist Church.. As long as her health permitted, Caroline continued to attend church regularly, still often walking if no ride was available.

She left a lasting impression on me and many of those who knew her by her dedication to attending church and her years of hard work. It is untelling at the miles she walked in her lifetime. How many of today's generation is equal to the task?