Ella Wanda "Teenie" Edwards
Steamboat Era Museum Oral History Project
These interviews were recorded with residents of the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula of Virginia during 2003 who knew much about the history of steamboating in the region. Included were many now no longer living, who worked on the boats and wharves, those who rode them as passengers and crew, and those who shipped produce and manufactured items or ordered goods for delivery. At the time, copies of the recordings were provided to the Steamboat Era Museum in Irvington, Virginia for use in various educational programs.
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National Capital Contracting
Michael Kline interviewed Ella Wanda Edwards, also known as Teenie, for the Steamboat Era Museum Oral History Project. Born on September 26, 1920, on Gwynn's Island, Virginia, Ella Wanda Edwards grew up in a family of thirteen children, enjoying a close-knit community filled with honest, upright people. The interview begins with Edwards sharing her childhood memories and the origins of her nickname, Teenie. She fondly recalls the trust and camaraderie among the island's residents, including a valued worker named Bozo, who was integral to the community despite his fear of water. Edwards describes the idyllic and supportive environment of Gwynn's Island, where neighbors could rely on each other for help and companionship. Edwards delves into her family history, recounting stories of her relatives who lived around Edwards Creek. She highlights the contributions of various family members, such as her sister, who provided milk to Bozo and his friends for their gatherings. The narrative also includes anecdotes about local figures like Captain Homer Callis, a renowned seaman from Gwynn's Island known for his exceptional skills in docking ships on the East Coast. The interview covers various aspects of life on Gwynn's Island, including the impact of significant events such as World War II and local tragedies like the drowning of a father and son while clamming. Edwards speaks about her father's boat, the Wanda, built in 1927, and her family's involvement in the fishing and oystering industries. She reflects on the changes brought by the 1933 storm, which affected many local boats, including her cousin's vessel, the Rescue. Throughout the conversation, Edwards emphasizes the strong sense of community and mutual support that characterized life on Gwynn's Island. She shares memories of social events, such as dances and ferry rides, and the role of local businesses and individuals in fostering a vibrant community spirit. The interview also touches on the legacy of the James Adams Floating Theatre and its influence on the cultural life of the island.
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