Researching Family Trees of Evergreen Cemetery: Nelson, Boffman, and Padmore
early 1800s-1920s
Santa Cruz
Bella Maez
Methodology
Genealogical reconstruction relied on cross-referencing names, ages, locations, and household information across census records, vital records, and newspapers. Since surnames were often changed as a result of enslavement, identities were established through patterns and relationships were found across multiple sources rather than relying on last names alone.
Results
Research identified family connections and biographical information for several individuals buried in Evergreen Cemetery. Records helped identify London Nelson’s father and son, along with newspaper accounts and biographical stories that provided insight into their lives. Research on David Boffman revealed six children, identified two of them by name, and traced one grandchild. Additional newspaper accounts documented his life and included a local announcement of his admission to Agnews Insane Asylum late in life. Research also identified Samuel Padmore’s wife, newspaper announcements of his candidacy for local office, and reports of his death shortly thereafter. By sharing the stories of individuals whose lives have been largely absent from local historical narratives, this project contributes to the London Nelson Initiative’s efforts to document and preserve the history of Santa Cruz’s early Black community.
