" We started the family Bible after slavery was abolished. My great-grandmother remembered the Bible being started, which meant that she was a slave as a young girl. When she died, the Bible was at least 105 years old, so she must have been nearly 115 years old. Her daughter, my grandmother, died at 97, and her husband at 98. "
- Louis Gossett, Jr.

The quote reflects a family's long history of keeping a cherished Bible that was initiated shortly after the end of slavery. The speaker notes that his great-grandmother, who lived through significant historical changes and personal challenges, started this tradition when she was young and had been a slave. She passed away at an advanced age, having held onto the Bible for over a century. Her daughter and son-in-law also enjoyed long lives.

The quote carries profound implications about resilience, longevity, and family continuity in the face of adversity. It highlights how significant historical events, such as the abolition of slavery, can be marked and remembered through personal artifacts like a family Bible. The extended lifespans of the great-grandmother and her immediate family suggest not only survival but also thriving despite immense challenges. This tradition of preserving a family Bible serves as a powerful symbol of endurance, faith, and cultural heritage that spans generations.

The quote is spoken by Louis Gossett Jr., an accomplished American actor known for his roles in television and film, including the iconic portrayal of Isaac Henderson in "Roots" and winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "An Officer and a Gentleman." His storytelling about family history underscores his commitment to sharing narratives that illuminate African American experiences.