Dear Family, we did it again. We’ve once again woven the fabric of our family’s history and love into a beautiful tapestry. Heartfelt gratitude extends to each one of you for gracing us with your presence, for coming together as cousins both known and yet-to-be-discovered, and for fostering an everlasting bond. This reunion was a testament to the power of family, and it wouldn’t have been possible without you.
A special note of appreciation goes out to my dedicated team who lent their skills and support to turn this gathering into a cherished memory. Barbara Clark, our treasurer, Robin Griffith, Marcia Noisette, Skyler Rencher, Emily Anderson, Darrell Noisette, Sherrie Rencher, LaSheia Oubre, and my son, J. “Auz”heal Clement, your dedication was truly invaluable. Heartfelt thanks also go to our sponsors and contributors, including Sharon and Bernard Rencher, Carmen Hall and Andrew Henry, Jessica and Leon Hall, Cheryl and Allain Messena, and Gloria and Alvin Montgomery. Your support made this reunion even more special, and we are deeply grateful for your generosity.
The Noisette Reunion 2023 was an incredible journey, a soulful exploration that left imprints on our hearts. Despite any initial doubts, we came together, creating new connections and kindling an enduring curiosity about our shared past. An important discovery during the event highlighted the interconnectedness of our family, reminding us that there are stories yet to be unveiled, waiting for us to uncover them.
As the coordinator of this reunion, my heart swelled with joy witnessing the connections you all made. From the enlightening IAAM Museum and the Geechee Gullah City Tour to the heartrending experience at McLeod Plantation, our journey left us profoundly moved and connected to our roots. These events with the option of the Low Country Boil proved to be some of the family’s favorites. With the help of the Senior Executive Director of the New York City Department of Education, cousin Sharon Rencher, we received an education that dug deep into our souls. And to top that off, all of you made such an impact on Toby Smith, our guide and the Cultural History Interpretation Coordinator for Charleston County Parks Commission, that she has given all Noisettes free access to the plantation.
Reflecting on the fleeting moments of the reunion, I’m reminded that time moves swiftly. After spending many months planning and preparing, it came and went in a flash. I was able to reconnect and meet many of you with texts, email, and phone calls. I am looking forward to spending more quality time with all the cousins that I have gotten to know over these last fifteen years. Therefore, I’ve made the decision to pass on the role of coordinator for the upcoming 2026 Noisette reunion. My hope is to embrace more meaningful moments with each of you, unhindered by the responsibilities of planning. Rest assured, though my role may change, my commitment to our family’s history remains steadfast. I’ll continue my research, tending to our family tree, and cherishing the bonds we’ve forged. I thank you all for the support you have given me over the years. Please keep me informed of your family discoveries, DNA research, and new sprouts for our tree. Continue to send me old photos, documents, and life events that I can share with the family through Facebook and our website at http://www.noisetteancestors.com.
In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude for allowing me to be a part of your lives, to learn your stories, and to feel the profound connection that makes us family. I’m just a call, text, or email away, ready to discuss your findings, answer questions, or simply exchange greetings. Each one of you has touched my heart in ways beyond words. I appreciate my Noisettes more than you know.
With boundless love and gratitude,
Margaret Peggy Clement
