History
The Story Behind the Name
Among the oldest family memorials at Genery’s Gap Cemetery is the shared stone of Elizabeth and William Genery.
The Genery Stone
Mother
Elizabeth Genery
- Born
- May 20, 1798
- Died
- July 15, 1872
Father
William Genery
- Born
- September 8, 1826
- Died
- December 24, 1912
Elizabeth was approximately 28 years older than William. She died at the age of 74, while William was about 45 years old at the time of her death. William lived another 40 years, passing away at the age of 86. Their shared stone preserves the memory of one of the families most closely connected to this historic cemetery and the surrounding community.
The stone says “Mother” and “Father,” but that wording does not necessarily mean they were married to each other.
Considering their 28-year age difference, and the information we have naming other women as William’s wives, Elizabeth may have been William’s mother. The connection may always remain a mystery.
How the Gap got its name
According to family history passed down through descendants, the Genery family was for whom Genery’s Gap was named. Although we have not yet located an original deed, map or official record confirming exactly how the name originated, the Genery family’s connection to this area is an important part of the history handed down through generations.
Elizabeth’s grave is the cemetery’s oldest known legible marker. Her stone offers a meaningful glimpse into a family whose name has remained attached to this special place for well over a century.
Genery burials in the register
The burial list indicates that Elizabeth and William were not the only members of the Genery family connected to this cemetery. These records may help document additional generations, clarify family relationships and connect the Genery name to other families represented here.
| Name | Born | Died |
|---|---|---|
| Elizabeth Genery | May 20, 1798 | July 15, 1872 |
| William Genery | September 8, 1826 | December 24, 1912 |
| Julia Genery | January 18, 1856 | November 20, 1914 |
| Nettie Genery Smith Hazel | February 22, 1903 | October 18, 1989 |
Julia and Nettie’s names suggest that “Genery” continued to be preserved as a family or middle name in later generations. Their exact connections are still being researched.
Do you know more?
As we continue researching the history of Genery’s Gap Cemetery, we would love to hear from anyone who has photographs, family stories, documents or other information about Elizabeth, William or the additional Genery family members listed in the burial records. Every piece of history helps us preserve their story and better understand the family’s long-standing presence in the community.
