Origins

Aaron Hardy Shelton, the fourth-born child of Hardy and Mary Bearden Shelton, was born into a family whose roots were deeply tied to the land that would become known as Possum Trot. His life reflects a generation that transitioned from enslavement into stability, faith, and self-determined work.

A man of faith and the oldest known son, Aaron Hardy lived a life grounded in discipline, family, and purpose—values that would shape the legacy carried forward through his descendants.

Migrations

Aaron Hardy and his wife, Fannie Key Shelton, were married on December 10, 1882 and established their life in Rome, Georgia. While their roots remained closely tied to Possum Trot—where they owned land—their lives would also reflect a shift toward the city, where Aaron worked for many years.

Over time, their descendants carried the family’s story forward, with some remaining in Georgia while others later migrated to places such as Detroit, extending the family’s presence beyond its original home.

Family

Aaron Hardy and Fannie Key Shelton were the parents of seven children: Edna Clyde, Lewis Pleas, Mary Madolyu, Lillie C., Allard Inman, Norris Charlie, and Ida Fay.

Through these children, the family continued across generations, forming connections through marriage and community while carrying forward the values of faith, work, and family established by Aaron and Fannie.

Aaron Hardy’s life also reflects a legacy of provision and stability. At one time, he and his family owned land at Possum Trot before establishing a home in Rome—a powerful symbol of what was built and sustained across generations.

Rooted in faith and labor, his path remained close to home, while the legacy he built carried forward through generations.

This story continues to unfold through deeper connections, names, and discoveries still being brought to light.

Find out more at our gathering.

All are bound by sacred ties to Coosa, Rome, and the land now known as Possum Trot.