Origins

Joel Lee G. Shelton, a son of Hardy and Mary Shelton, was part of a generation whose lives remained closely tied to the land and community surrounding Possum Trot. His early years reflect the continuation of family life rooted in place, labor, and connection.

On August 5, 1891, Joel married Della M. Echols in Rome, Georgia, establishing a family that would carry forward his name and legacy across generations.

Migrations

In the early years of their marriage, Joel and Della lived near Freemantown on land owned by the Shelton family, with Joel’s mother, Mary Bearden Spullock Shelton.

From there, Joel’s family would carry the story outward—settling further south before later generations extended into other regions, marking a significant movement beyond Georgia while maintaining ties to their origins.

Family

Joel and Della Shelton were the parents of four children: William “Wiley,” Fannie Mae, Louise, and William “Willie” Preston.

Through these children, the family’s legacy continued across generations, with many descendants carrying forward Joel’s name as a reflection of his lasting influence within the family.

Their story reflects both continuity and movement, connecting the land they began on with the paths that followed.

From roots held close, his name carried forward—moving west, then north, through generations that followed.

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

Find out more at our gathering.

Their story is rooted in Coosa, Rome, and the land now known as Possum Trot.