Abstract (I Was A Sharecropper’s Son)
I Was A Sharecropper’s Son is an autobiography, self-published by the author, Travis W. Lewis of Lexington, Tennessee, in 2023. The book begins with an account of the murder of the author’s grandfather in 1921, followed by a narrative of his parents’ lives prior to marriage. The opening describes the
Chapter 1
Our father, Ollie Erastus Lewis, aka Daddy, was born December 31, 1906 to Cornelius Lafayette “Fayette” Lewis, aka Grandpa, 1877-1922 and Louella Scott Lewis, aka Granny, 1880-1956. Daddy was the fourth of ten children and was visually impaired from birth. He was next to the oldest who remained at home
Book Cover Painting
The book cover painting depicts an old man with stooped shoulders, silver hair, and holding his page of memories in hand. Near sunset, he stands onsite of his childhood home and speaks to a five-year old, who surveys the remains of the same, long since vacated homeplace, and listens as
Testimonials
“I thoroughly enjoyed reading your book! You are a very gifted author. You really have a way of pulling the reader into the story and painting a picture. As I read your book, I could visualize the scene. Your story is not only honest and heartfelt, but it’s so educational, inspiring and encouraging; and so respectful in telling about the lives of the people. I’m so glad you shared and wrote your story.”
CHRISTINE JACKSON, Plymouth, MI“I had the honor and pleasure of working with Travis Lewis during his tenure with Stuart C. Irby Company. (1987-2017). One does not have to spend much time with Travis to determine that he is a dedicated Southern Christian Gentleman. I know him to be an honest, hardworking, dedicated employee with a work ethic that all employers look for when hiring. He had a very successful career with Irby and was highly respected by employees, customers, and all with whom he had contact.
Upon receipt and review of his autobiography “I Was A Sharecropper’s Son”, I learned that he was also a great researcher and writer. Having grown up in the rural south during the 1940s and 1950s, I was impressed with his recollection and ability to describe that era. I highly recommend his book for anyone desiring to understand the rural south during this period of time. I find his recollection and explanation to be extremely accurate. I was also highly impressed with his research and organization of data to support his writing.
I congratulate my friend on his work and appreciate the opportunity to make these comments.”
LILES WILLIAMS, Retired Former Vice President – Stuart C. Irby Company Former Chairman – Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission“Truly enjoyable…..a great read!!! As a former classmate, it doesn’t surprise me that Travis reached the top of his profession. Also, being a country boy who was raised on a farm myself, I can identify with the toils and struggles that farm life brings. But through it all, it’s obvious that the Lewis family kept their faith, family, and country at the top of their list. I’m sure that this book will be an inspiration to many as it was to me.”
GLYNN SINGLETON, Published Author; Loss/damage Inspector, U.S. Railroad Industry; U.S.P.S, Retired Rural Carrier“I thoroughly enjoyed reading I Was A Sharecroppers Son. I was amazed at the detail Travis included in his book and found the content very informative and enjoyable. Travis and I worked together at IRBY for many years and reflecting on many of his stories stirred my emotions. Needless to say we saw many changes in the electric utility industry and I cherished the years we worked together. This book embodies a great life and successful career of a true Southern gentleman.”
EDDIE MOAK, Retired Utility Vice President ““I have read several bios of working-class people and have to say yours is the best of the lot. The Lord had plans for you in this life. I have to admire you walking away from LES — looks like your guardian angel made sure you had other options at the time. I encourage all people reading this book to read the footnotes as they progress through.”
RALPH EASON, TVA Unit Operator, Retired; New Johnsonville, TNI became acquainted with Travis Lewis some 30 years ago, he has been a blessing in my life, always upbeat and positive. My first encounter with his writing ability happened about 15 years ago when he sent out a compilation of Sunday School lessons he had taught; I was thoroughly impressed and could not stop until I finished.
It came as no surprise when Travis informed me he was writing a book about his life “I Was A Sharecropper’s Son”; his knack for reliving life events and circumstances through words is amazing to say the least. Many of the events he incorporates in the story of his life are events he had previously shared with me.
I consider Travis Lewis a friend and brother, and I highly recommend his book; it brought back many memories of my childhood. I thank you, Travis, for sharing your life with me and the world. Five Star Read!
“Although I have not been able to read through the entire book at this time, I have really enjoyed the read so far. The book seems to almost take me back in time and has definitely kept me interested. I have really enjoyed the details and pictures of local history of places that are long gone and nearly forgotten.”
BRENT MAYFIELD, Owner: Stanfill Enterprises Co., Inc.; Lexington, TN
