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in reply to a message by Joiya
I just thought of this...
You said that the NANNY in 1916 Virginia used to call your grandmother "Ersell".
The term "'ersel" was often used by African American maids, slaves and staff to refer to a lady of the house, who was young. Kind of like "ma'am" for girls. It is short for "herself". If the nanny fit into this category, she may have started calling your grandmother this as a sign of both endearment and respect to her charge's position.
Just a thought.
______________________________________________
Mama to Clarisse and Nadine.
Mahal na mahal from our little family to yours!
You said that the NANNY in 1916 Virginia used to call your grandmother "Ersell".
The term "'ersel" was often used by African American maids, slaves and staff to refer to a lady of the house, who was young. Kind of like "ma'am" for girls. It is short for "herself". If the nanny fit into this category, she may have started calling your grandmother this as a sign of both endearment and respect to her charge's position.
Just a thought.
______________________________________________
Mama to Clarisse and Nadine.
Mahal na mahal from our little family to yours!
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Replies
Goodness! That could be it! She did mention her nanny was African American. I had no idea. I'll have to research it further. Thanks so much!
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