I remember this episode and liked seeing Verdie in more of a lead role Lynn Hamilton is a great actress I've seen her in many films and TV shows especially the Walton's, Sanford and Son, Days of Our Lives and Generations have a wonderful week Thank You.🇺🇲📺🇺🇲
I remember, very clearly, seeing this episode when it originally aired. I was in elementary school at the time. It made a huge impact on my thinking back then as a young child. I, being white and growing up in a white surrounding, was really jolted by this. This is my favorite episode. So glad you visited this episode today. I have been waiting to see you highlight it.
Perhaps more than any other film that I can think of, Mr Hamner and all the writers rang the bell time and again stressing the value of families and one's heritage. It's been written by several here that Walton's fans seem to fall into two camps: 1) those whose families were very much like the Walton's, and 2) those whose family ties and heritage were unfortunately not as strong. Many people are like Verdi researching their ancestors. Whatever one has experienced, it's good to begin with wherever you are and create as best family and friend relationships as you can. John, Sr and John Boy seemed often to include "outsiders" as welcome to the Walton's family. That extension of friendship at least to me is one reason I "attached" to the Walton's. I felt sure if I lived then and there we'd be friends. Judy, and everyone associated with The Walton's continue that charming inclusion to this day! How very sweet! ❤
Again & always beautifully said, Holly. I’m still amazed and moved by the caring and “charming inclusion” by all who were part of the series. Their care about each other & the audience is palpable and healing - including to wounds from today’s world - despite most of us never being in the same room! Also, as part of your point, the Walton neighbors are every bit a part of the “family”. They’re intrinsic to the feelings still created by the work, understanding and commitment of 50+ years ago.
Love that you portrayed another episode, highlighting Lynn Hamilton's brilliant acting. She just captivated me then,and to this day,with sometimes just a look or gesture,and that unforgettable,inunciating voice and smile!!!!
One of my favorite episodes. It showed realistically how racial prejudices were at that time. I remember Hal Williams sharing how Earl Hamner approached him wanting insight from him regarding that time period. Very well done episode!
This is one of my favourite episodes of The Waltons. It made an impression on me even when I was little…. that desire to find out more about yourself and your family history and where you came from. It was so well done in this episode and you explained it all so well as you always do. Keep up the good work
Once again another thought provoking episode of the Walton's. I cant help but think that the mini series Roots may have been the inspiration for the storyline?? Thank you again for doing these segments ❣️
My favorite scene in this episode is when Ms. Unwin shows some empathy for Verdi. Realizing there are 2 sides to every story. And is willing to sit down with Verdi if Verdi finds anything relating to her family. This episode showes that we all have value and to be sympathetic of others feelings as Grandpa pointed out.
One of the greatest blessings in life is being able to revisit cherished memories. Every morning, my mom and I sit down together to watch The Waltons, just like we did when I was a child in the '70s. In these moments, we're not just watching a show-we're reliving the lessons, the warmth, and the love that made those years so special. Now, more than ever, these mornings mean everything to us, reminding us of the simple joys and the importance of family. ❤ Thank you Judy Norton for sharing so much about The Waltons-your insights and stories make our mornings even more meaningful!
So happy that the show devoted a whole story line around Verdie, tracking down her family history. As mentioned in the episode not much in the way of records were stored based really on Verdie being a person of color. But the hard work of Jason and Verdie and a boost from grandpa it all paid off in the end. Wonderful ending to a great story line.
This is one of my favorite episodes. Perhaps because I am really into genealogy. It always bothered me that that picture of Verdi was off. It looks like a photo that was taken in the 1950s. If she was born in 1898, then matching up her age in the picture (if she’s one of the young girls) would have to have been taken before 1920. At that time photos would be taken in a studio or by a professional photographer. I’m not sure anyone would have had a camera to take their own photos to be developed like this one was. But you have spoken before about how timelines were sometimes off. But sketching was very popular among affluent, southern women at that time so I was pleased that they incorporated that into the storyline. I quite enjoyed this episode. Thank you for all the insights
So glad you related to this episode. You raise an interesting question about the photo of Verdie as a baby… but at least the sketches seemed to follow history.
As a genealogy enthusiast, I was intrigued by your synopsis of The Family Tree episode and desired to watch it. I found the episode free on Amazon and loved it. I enjoyed being able to pause and observe the birth and death records more closely. I'm glad Ms. Unwin's heart softened in the end. I wish we could have seen Ms. Unwin at least gift the sketch of Verdie's grandfather and great grandfather to Verdie. This would be a great treasure to Verdie. Again, I enjoyed being able to pause and examine the sketch more closely. I was also hoping to see the soldier's reaction when he saw Erin whose photo lured him to Walton's Mountain.
It was very nice of Jason to assist Verdi trace her roots ...I remember this episode ..thanks to Elizabeth's siblings for keeping her "in the box" as much as they could ..lol even though it was at Erin's expense. .thanks for recapping this episode Judy ! ❤
I recently saw this episode. What an incredible episode. Challenging storyline written so respectfully and FABULOUS acting. Lynn Hamilton and Hal Williams were always so stellar. I LOVED their characters. Also, Jason was so precious in this episode. Sweef Jaso . 🎉❤🎉
That was a great episode illustrating the difficulty of tracing your ancestors, especially in the African American community. Loved the Elizabeth letter writing campaign.
This was a very touching episode. Lynn Hamilton did a Wonderful Job. it was so funny when the Soldier cam to see Elizabeth. she had that look of oh crap what do i do. the Soldier was very sweet to her. All in All a Great Episode. Looking forward as Always to your next Segment. if you happen to see Mary Ellen plz tell her hi for Me. lolol. God Bless and take care Judy. ♥
Hi Judy, thanks for another great podcast on the Waltons . I liked the music that was played when the medallion was shown. Loved the mysterious vibe. Enjoyed Zeb's talk with Mrs. Unwin, convincing her to allow Verdie access to the Unwin family records.
Loved this segment, I remember this episode so well. Lynn Hamilton gave such a wonderful performance as Verdi and her quest to find more about her history really made an impression on me.❤ It was so uplifting when the sketches in the attic were found.
@@judynorton2598 Hi Judy, I hope you can see my nested post within Susanna's. Those beautifully drawn sketches- do you know who drew them? Was it Mr. Graves the Art Director for The Waltons? He is awesome, he also helped Maude paint those portraits for sale at The Godsey's store too, and more 😍👍👍
It’s a great episode, partly for the way it showed the routine acceptance of cutting dismissal & loss centered in empty bias. It educates in one way to show the immediate harm of intense violence & in other, still critical ways to show the destruction wrought from routines. Everyone who created this did terrific, heartfelt work. Thanks, Judy, for your wonderful reviews
This is a treat! Especially on my Birthday! This episode was another favourite of mine. It’s always nice to learn about our family history! Have a nice week!
Hi Judy, in these days there is one episode of the Waltons every day in german TV Sat1-Gold. I watch them regulary. Last time I watched the Waltons in the 70ies. Many episodes now are new for me. I only know your beautiful german sychron-voice and you had and have still beautiful eyes. I like this show much more than "little house on the prairie". Theses episodes are so fine and nice.
Very fun to watch as you show & tell, you make it more interesting to want to watch all these episodes all over again, my goodness. Do you all spend time together? And which ones are passed away? I enjoy these shows alot, could you please add the full length shows each time you speak about a episode please? It would make my day! Have a great day Miss Judy! - Miss Debbie
I’m so glad you are enjoying these little looks back. Unfortunately I can’t show the episodes as they are licensed and copyrights come into play. The cast do see each other whenever we can. In the family cast we have lost Will Geer and Ellen Corby (the grandparents) as well as Ralph Waite (John).
@@judynorton2598 How sad, they was awfully sweet. And filled with the love of Jesus, that's for sure. My how time slips away so quickly, with only pictures & videos to keep the sweet treasures in our lives. Makes me smile, but yet cry 😢 life is beautiful but yet so sad missing the ones we love that pass threw time. I wish we could all be together. Every now & then I sit & wonder 🤔 how in the hell did all these years go by so quickly. Now all that's left are memories. I so treasure all your videos, & the beautifully made shows of "The Walton's". At least I know one day we will all be together in Heaven above. Sometimes I remember hearing you say your lines, & everyone else. Àt least your here on RU-vid bringing all these episodes back to our treasured memories. God Bless you Miss Judy, - Miss Debora 💗 💕🥰 🌺🌹 ✨ P.S. if you ever need a friend or prayers let me know, I'm here.
Hi Judy. Thank you for this episode. What touched my heart and soul,was when grandpa points out that Jason would be able to open doors that Verdi couldn't. This touched me even as a child back then,watching the Waltons,how the Waltons family members helped those less fortunate than them,at that time. And I love how, everyone was filmed together at least in one season,emphasizing the importance of supporting one another and others,and you do a great job,in the one scene,Judy!
Lynn Hamilton was fantastic in all she did . I wish you could get her on your show . Finding graves in Scottsville impossible many floods from James river and poor never had tombstones. This episode was excellent and you looked fantastic as al;ways
Hello Judy! What a fun episode with Elizabeth. Erin teaches her a very good lesson about telling the truth. The look on her face is priceless when she realizes she should have been listening to Erin. l did miss John Boy in this episode, but Jason does an amazing job of picking up the reins. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful episode. 🥰
I know this comment is about an earlier episode but recently I was watching The Best Christmas and I heard something that I hadn't before. Twice when Olivia was speaking I could hear her voice echoing on the sound stage. Once at Ikes store and again when Olivia was at home on the stairs coming into the living room. As many times as I've seen that episode I had never heard that before. It seems like there is always some small thing I notice or hear when I rewatch these episodes. All of you were a part of something very special that is truly timeless.
When anyone speaks of tracing their family tree, my ears are ready to hear what they find. I love how this episode allow Verdi to trace some of her family tree within less then an hour. I have been searching my family tree for over 45 years now. I do have a Walmsley in my tree, but that line goes back a long way in England.
What a superb episode this was, Verdi's quest to find out about her ancestory was bound to stir up some unsavoury things about slavery but the positive was that she was much the wiser in the end and able to call time on it all. Elizabeths story line was hilarious especially when the soldier turns up towards the end. Thank you Judy for this segment and best wishes to you from your waltonian superfan in a dry and milder England😉
I guess it exemplifies the concept that if you go searching for the truth you have to be willing and prepared to deal with whatever you might find out :). Verdie dealt with it all with her usual class and dignity.
Judy this was one of my favorite episodes of The Waltons. Anytime Lynn Hamilton was on you just knew it would be a good episode as she is extremely talented. Once again thanks for telling us something about each of the guest actors as that is of particular interest to me. Great job as always Judy ❤️
This was a favorite episode for me Judy. I was asking everybody about my family history...remember Judy we'd just had Roots in 1976 then this in 78 I think it was. I even paid attention to the Walton family history...old Rome Walton settled the Mountain first in 1764. Lol. Remember grandma Walton had Rome's Diary hidden. Lol. Well I'm getting our family history about ready to print and I'm including a memory from this episode and those when the Walton family history is mentioned. Great memories. We loved to watch at mom and dad's house from the Homecoming until the end and we continue to watch.
Ms congeniality was on of my favorite movies . By the way I had been sick with chemo side effects, my white count dropped very low. In the hospital I binged on episodes from far back as two years of your show. The explanation of the episodes are my favorite, but I also like the behind the scenes info. Have a blessed evening.
Sending best wishes and prayers for as smooth a journey through your chemo as possible. I’m glad The Waltons has been helping you through. Hope you are feeling better soon.
I always love the informational particulars from you about scene set ups and locations, especially why and how they were shot. Very informative and insightful. I remember that scene when Grandpa corrects Jason about the war between the states. Great series and another wonderful video from you! Thanks Judy!
Great job covering another episode, hearing your take is the perfect accompaniment to any of the episodes. I sure do like seeing the porch on the sound stage looking so realistic. Love seeing it on the house on the back lot. Guess I just love seeing it. I always get a good feeling seeing certain things on the Waltons the house on the back lot is one of them. It takes me back fifty years ago watching any one of the episodes. It was was such a drag when the show was over and I had to come back to reality knowing I had school tomorrow morning., at least it was Friday ! Thanks again enjoyed as usual. : )
Hi Judy, greetings from Connecticut! You did an amazing commentary on this Family tree episode...I admire your take on this segment! This family tree episode makes you think of your own family history. Thank you for another great segment!❤
So many interesting characters, aside from the main cast, that added another dimension to the show. One of them were Verdie & Harley. I've always loved it when an episode would specifically focus on them. Lynn & Hal's portrayal of them were believable & sublime.
Thank you for covering The Family Tree Judy. The first time I watched it, only a couple of years ago, tears welled up as soon as Verde and Jason approached the old plantation. Each Actor in this episode was impeccable and extraordinary. So believable from the setting to the performances, you just can't deny the intensity of the emotions provoked. Beautifully written from start to finish. Lynne Hamilton is undeniably a superstar. When she walks into the room, the whole mood adapts to hers. Thank you so much for your review, Judy. ❤❤❤👍👍👍
This was indeed a great episode and I like the name of the war being spoken of as the war between the states as there was nothing civil about the war. I loved both story lines. Thanks, Judy.
Since my late father went to a great deal of trouble to trace all our branches (including my mother's side) to ALL our respective Old Countries, I understood where Verdie was coming from in seeking out her roots. Interesting that it was spurred via her own father's passing but IIRC, when Verdie first appeared, she was a widowed mother of a grown daughter living with her unmarried sister- yet no mention of either her sister or daughter here (and oddly enough no sign of either of her adoptive sons with Harley) . Yes, it was frustrating to see folks being needlessly rude to Verdie who was merely asking for information. Thankfully, Grandpa had her back so even the rather bitter Miss Unwin couldn't snub Zeb! Interesting that it wasn't the dry written records that got preserved at the Unwins but the sketches depicting them as one of Miss Unwins's aunts had viewed the slaves who built their estate (and I imagine Miss Unwin's old gardener had quite a bit of history of his OWN and knew what was what re the Unwins). Anyway, Verdie got to see her African great-grandfather and her infant grandfather [who'd live to be a free man]. Of course, since the great-grandfather was holding his infant son and there was no companion or mother present, this begs the question of what might have become of her [could she have died in childbirth?]. Anyway, it was a very satisfying episode for me (and it had one of the best closing quips by Zeb when asked by [I think Elizabeth] if they could find their own family tree- to which Zeb quipped 'Find it? We LIVE in it!' ). Thanks for this!
How wonderful that your own family tree is so well documented thanks to your late father. Having Grandpa talk with Miss Unwin - another older person who had more understanding of history - likely helped sway her. I agree about the final Zeb quip. Priceless!
An interesting piece of filming on the set of the Waltons and all the history behind this episode. I enjoy the insight. The stories about the episodes show the importance of the greatness of the Waltons. One can feel how this show will echo deep into filming history and move forward, all at the same time, into the presence of showing and telling of what an incredible piece of filming art this show was and continues to be for generations to see and love. Blessing to you Judy.
Funny how these past 40 years, I go around upholding Granda Walton's dignity and correcting people with "the war between the states" whenever they say "Civil War" here in Canada. @Judy About the clip from "Hotel" is that you as the child in the elevator?
At least grandpa didn’t say The War of Northern Aggression. As my family genealogist I have learned that my father’s maternal and likely paternal sides were slave owners. Once I flesh out more of the paternal line I will be posting whatever slave schedules I can find in an effort to make that information available to whoever may be seeking their history. I loved this episode.
I can remember at least one episode when the phrase, "War of Northern Aggression" is used. The bit of dialogue was accompanied by a mini-history lesson, as the adults explained the reason of the phrase.
@@kami-cotler I thought I remembered that as well, glad to know I haven’t lost my marbles completely. I seem to recall it was a conversation between Grandpa and John Boy and may have had something to do with the Baldwins.
This is one of my favorite episodes. Thank you for highlighting it. Lynn Hamilton is one of my favorite actresses. She was so beautiful on The Waltons.
I do genealogy, and this is one of my favorite episodes. When Verdie finds the drawing of her grandpa and great-grandpa and how she runs her hand on the drawing as if to comfort them . . . It's a heart-wrenching moment. Plus, her speech at the end when she's saying that someday her family will know their roots . . . I always get choked up watching it. Lynn Hamilton did an excellent job!
Have you done a show on the last show and what it was like to wrap up a legendary show? What was your life like after the Waltons? You're an American TV legend!!
Thankyou Judy for another great behind the scenes Waltons story. When I saw this episode originally, it definitely had the Roots The Next Generation miniseries feel to it. Lynn Hamilton's performance as recurring character Verde never failed to disappoint. I would've loved if Lynn was made a regular on the series vise Rose and her two grandkids. She was already a series favorite and definitely with her wisdom, and love for the Walton family would've only made the series better.
What a great idea that would have been to have Verdie come help at the house regularly. We loved Peggy Rea who played Aunt Rose - but you’re right - the audience already knew and loved Lynn as Verdie as we all did as well.
That was such an emotional episode. To have Verdie look for her relatives and then find the picture of her great grandfather. Plus the episode taught all of us so much more about how the south viewed the Civil war, or the war between the states as they call it. Thanks for going through the episode with all of us.
Wonderful recap Judy. Thank you always for covering the details such as where something was filmed. 1) I'm not sure if you got my last set of questions but the big ones for me were how much time does a composer get to do music for an episode and is that done after editing (I would assume so) 2) How are the title cards done such as 'directed by' and who is responsible for those credit titles. I know nowadays its done digitally but back in the day I'm assuming it was very different. 3) Finally a new one. If you had to pick one thing (on the technical side) that was the hardest for you, what would it be? (in other words, the hot lights, the makeup, the reshoots, etc.) Thanks!
Not sure what the timeline was for a composer on each episode. Probably not long. As for title cards - my guess is they were created by the editor based on the list of credits provided for each episode. As for hardest to deal with… on hot days outside then under hot lights, not a lot of fun - but probably the worst was having to look into the lights and try not to squint :)
Lynn Hamilton was simply beautiful! I was so saddened when Hal Williams recently shared her health issues with us. You forgot to point out (although I guess it was obvious) that the man in the sketch was wearing the medallion that Verdi had found. Thank you for another wonderful episode. See you next time.
I just saw “corabeth “ on “in the heat of the night” with carrol O’Connor! She was so different from her character on the Walton’s. It showed her incredible talent. It’s fun seeing so many actors of the 60’s and 70’s on many different programs of that era. A good episode showing some of the realities of the 1940’s. Thanks for sharing. Mary
I remember the plot with Elizabeth and really enjoyed it. I'm wondering if this main plot with Verdi was tied to the mini series ROOTS, which was broadcast about this time. It was interesting to me that Verdi was excited to find her grandparent's graves. I knew 2 of my great-grandmothers and have written down some of my memories about them. I got a push from my daughter to write these and other stories, but my first encouragement came from a young man named John-Boy Walton. This series reminded us how impotant family, neighbors, and friends are and how very rich we are to have them. Thank you for your channel and keep up the good work.
Nice how you were able to tie in Hal's interview before doing this version of "behind the scenes". Judy this is such a unique way to share "the rest of the story" of the Walton's
