caroline thompson evans
1867-1939
Life Story
Laid to Rest: Evans Cemetery – Newton County, Mississippi
Early Life and Family Background
Caroline Thompson Evans was born on June 2, 1867, in Newton County, Mississippi. She was the daughter of Joseph Thompson (1846–1923) and Adeline Thompson (1844–?), part of a generation born just after the Civil War during Reconstruction, when formerly enslaved families were working to establish stability, land, and community.
Work and Daily Life
Caroline spent her life as a farmer, contributing to the agricultural economy that sustained many Black families in Newton County. By the year 1900, she was recorded as a widow, balancing the responsibilities of the household and farm on her own. Her life reflects the realities faced by countless rural African American women—labor-intensive work, limited resources, and a deep commitment to family survival.
Marriage and Children
Caroline was the mother of three known children, born into two different unions:
Children with Abe Mitchell
- Lilla Mitchell (1883–1923)
- Joe Willie Mitchell (1888–1920)
Child with Harry Evans (1862–1901)
- Assenia Evans (1886–1982)
These family lines—Thompson, Mitchell, and Evans—became lasting pillars of the Altare and Newton County communities.
Later Years and Passing
Caroline Thompson Evans passed away on June 5, 1939, at the age of 72. She was laid to rest in the historic Evans Cemetery, where many of her relatives and community members also rest. Her life stands as a testament to the perseverance and strength of the women who fortified Black families during a time of profound social and economic hardship.
Resting Place
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1870 Federal Census
- 1880 Federal Census
- 1900 Federal Census
- 1910 Federal Census
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
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