Portraits of the Past

About the Book

Have you wondered about your ancestors—how they arrived in the area that they did, what were their lives like, and what legacies they passed on to future generations? This book traces one family, the Odis Harper family, from 1845 to the present day. It chronicles experiences from slavery, the Jim Crow South, the Civil Rights Movement, and current day. Readers of this book will be inspired to not only begin an ancestral search but also determine what legacy they will leave for future generations. Will you leave something for the world that will change it? Will you leave something for your family that will improve their lives? Will you write the history for the next generations? Will you let your family legacies die within these pages?

About the Author

Rosie Harper Austin spent 33 years in higher education in Houston, TX. A graduate of Jackson State University in Jackson, MS, she began her career as a reading specialist and English instructor. She received a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Houston and later served as Dean for Institutional Effectiveness in the Lone Star College System in Houston. Since her retirement, she has devoted most of her time to humanitarian service. She became interested in her family history after attending numerous family reunions and speaking with elders in her family. She found her parents’ story the most fascinating and wanted to link their story with those of previous generations. She is excited to share this history with you. Rosie lives in Houston with her husband, Milton. She enjoys interior and garden design, traveling, reading, and gardening. You may contact her at rhaustin616@msn.com.