Moodna Manor: A Heartfelt Tribute to the Sykes Family Legacy, published by Book Writing Bureau, is a poignant memoir written by Robert C. Sykes chronicling his family’s legacy and the history of Moodna Manor. The book is a heartfelt tribute to the Sykes family, who lived in Moodna, New York, for many generations and their contributions to the community.
The book initiates with an explanation of the name Moodna Manor, which was given to a roadside stand that Earl W. Sykes built on the family homestead property located on US Route 9W. In the book, Robert explains that the name Moodna Manor was chosen to honor his mother’s hard work in the restaurant and gas station. He then proceeds to explain the story of his family, starting with his parents and moving through the generations.
Robert portrays his parents as hardworking and loving people who always did their best to provide for the family. They were not perfect, but they did their best to create a stable, loving environment for their children to grow up in. The author describes his childhood, which was spent playing outside and enjoying family meals together. He explains that his parents were not very interactive with him, but they were always there for him and loved him.
The book also delves into the trials and tribulations that Robert C. Sykes‘s sister, Siggie, faced in her early years. He recounts her story, which was not well-known to their family, to help put all the happenings of that time together. It led to Robert deciding to write about his family’s history, the house, and the Moodna community in general.
The book takes the readers on a journey through the generations of the Sykes family, starting with Earl W. Sykes and his wife and moving through their children and grandchildren. The reader gets a glimpse into what life was like for the Sykes family and the Moodna community during different periods. Robert does not shy away from describing the difficult times his family faced, including his mother’s tragic death, but he does so with grace and dignity.
One of the book’s most fascinating aspects is Moodna Manor’s history. Robert provides a detailed description of the property, which has been in the family for many generations, and the various buildings that were built on it over the years. He describes the original homestead, built in the 1700s, and the multiple renovations and additions made to it over the years. He also provides a history of the various businesses run on the property, including a sawmill, a blacksmith shop, and the roadside stand his father built.
The book is filled with stories of the Sykes family and their life in Moodna, New York. He shares memories of his childhood and his experiences in the Navy. He also recounts the stories of his ancestors, including his great-great-grandfather, who fought in the Revolutionary War. Through his writing, Robert provides a window into the past and the lives of the people who came before us.
In addition to preserving the memories and legacy of the Sykes family, “Moodna Manor: A Heartfelt Tribute to the Sykes Family Legacy” also provides readers with a glimpse into the history of the Moodna area. The book chronicles the growth and development of the community, from the early days of the Sykes family settling in the area to the changes brought on by the construction of the New York State Thruway in the mid-twentieth century. Through the eyes of the Sykes family, readers gain an appreciation for the resilience and determination of the people who helped shape the Moodna community.
The book is a beautifully written and heartfelt memoir that pays homage to a family’s history and legacy. Using personal anecdotes, photographs, and historical research, the author paints a vivid portrait of the Sykes family and the Moodna community. This book is for anyone interested in local history, genealogy, or a beautifully crafted family memoir. It is a true labor of love and a fitting tribute to the Sykes family’s enduring legacy.
Moodna Manor: A Heartfelt Tribute to the Sykes Family Legacy is an amazing memoir that pays tribute to the Sykes family and their contributions to the Moodna community. Robert has done an excellent job of chronicling his family’s history and providing a glimpse into what life felt and seemed like for them and their community. The book dives deep into family history and the history of the Hudson Valley region.