Tomorrow Came Yesterday

Some may perceive West Ford as the distinguished black soldier who rose from bondage to become care taker of the renowned Mount Vernon Estate. To his family, however, West Ford is and always has been the secret son of George Washington. Sworn to secrecy by his own mother, the slave woman Venus, West Ford never made his parentage public. Yet in the tradition of all great sagas the tale of West Ford and his true father has been passed down in hushed tones for generations. Janet S. Allen...
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Some may perceive West Ford as the distinguished black soldier who rose from bondage to become care taker of the renowned Mount Vernon Estate. To his family, however, West Ford is and always has been the secret son of George Washington. Sworn to secrecy by his own mother, the slave woman Venus, West Ford never made his parentage public. Yet in the tradition of all great sagas the tale of West Ford and his true father has been passed down in hushed tones for generations. Janet S. Allen brings this long-hidden history to life with vivid re-imaginings and historical accounts. Follow the fascinating story of George Washington's burgeoning career as the father of a nation and the difficult life of the slave he fathered. This book takes readers beyond the dark years of slavery to the tumultuous era of reconstruction and finally on a remarkable journey to the western frontiers. Along the way we meet three generations of Fords and experience their fears, ambitions and their passions. Piecing together the written records, the oral histories and creative flourishes Tomorrow Came Yesterday creates a rich tapestry of history, romance and adventure. This is a story that transcends the life of one man and his family. It is a testament to the black experience in America and the long hard quest for dignity and respect.