We Are The Keepers Of Our Stories
Carrying Our Story Forward
We start with the voices of our elders—the stories passed down at kitchen tables and reunions—then follow the trail through records that lead us back to Lunenburg, Virginia and Chickasaw County, Mississippi. Every even year, we come together again, bringing photos, programs, and memories that continue to shape who we are.
From there, we gather it all—every image, every document, every story—and preserve it in our growing digital archive. Each cousin who shares a piece, asks a question, or joins in planning adds something meaningful to this living history. We’re building this together, step by step.
So come walk with us. Share what you know, reconnect where you can, and help us carry the Hobson-Buggs story forward for the generations still to come.
Our Intertwined Roots
We’re a family-centered space rooted in St. Louis, created to honor and preserve the stories, photos, reunions, and shared history of the Hobson and Buggs families.
Resilience Across Generations
Our story begins in Lunenburg, Virginia, grows through Chickasaw County, Mississippi, and stretches across 25 states, carried by ancestors who survived slavery.
A Living Tradition
Since 1954 we have gathered every even year, keeping the Hobson and Buggs union strong and inviting each generation to add names, memories, and new stories.
Continuing the Tradition: Our Next Gathering
We’re preparing for our next reunion and look forward to bringing everyone together once again. Details are still in the works, but this will be your place for updates on dates, location, and plans. Until then, stay connected—we can’t wait to gather, share, and continue our family tradition.
Our Ancestors
Michael E. Hobson, Sr.
Michael Ellison Hobson, Sr. was born on July 15, 1841, in Union County, South Carolina, into a life of enslavement. In the fall of 1850, he was brought to Houlka in Chickasaw County, Mississippi, by enslavers Richard Gilliam Hobson and his mother, Cicely Hobson.He later built a large and enduring family. With Sophie Hancock, he had six sons and three daughters. After her passing, he married Gabrielle Mayo, and together they had four more children—three sons and one daughter. Michael lived a long life rooted in Chickasaw County and passed away on May 4, 1924, in Houlka, Mississippi.
Ephraim Buggs
Ephraim Buggs was born between 1833 and 1840, most likely in Houlka, Chickasaw County, Mississippi, though later records also point to Alabama as his place of birth. Like many of our ancestors, he was born into enslavement. He is believed to have been held by Benjamin Bugg of Tennessee, who brought him into the Chickasaw County area.In 1862, Ephraim married Tennessee Hill, and together they raised a strong and growing family of eight children—four daughters and four sons. His life, like so many in our line, reflects both hardship and resilience. Ephraim remained in Houlka throughout his life and passed away on July 11, 1930.
Sophie Hancock
1st wife of Michael Hobson
Gabrielle Mayo
2nd wife of Michael Hobson
Tennessee Hill
Wife of Ephraim Bugg