Smallwood Charlotte Press
About the Author
Charlene Butts Ligon is a Virginia-based author dedicated to preserving family history and sharing true stories of courage, freedom, and the right to vote.
Her work is rooted in her family’s history in Virginia, including her great-great-grandfather Smallwood “Small” Ackiss, who was born into slavery, served in the Union Army during the Civil War, and became one of the first Black men to vote during Reconstruction.
This legacy continued through generations to her mother, Evelyn Butts, whose efforts helped end the poll tax in the United States.
Through her writing, Charlene connects these generations—sharing stories of resilience and determination and helping readers understand the long journey toward equality and voting rights.
A Family Legacy
From Civil War service to the fight for civil rights, Charlene’s family history reflects a continuous journey toward freedom and full participation in American democracy.
What began with Smallwood Ackiss’s service and first vote during Reconstruction continued through generations, ultimately leading to the work of Evelyn Butts in challenging the poll tax.
These stories are not separate moments in history—they are part of one family’s ongoing legacy.
Her Work
Fearless tells the story of Evelyn Butts and her fight to end the poll tax, while Small’s Big Journey introduces younger readers to the life and legacy of Smallwood Ackiss.
Together, these works preserve a family story that spans from the Civil War through the Civil Rights Movement and into the present.
Smallwood Charlotte Press was created to share these stories and ensure they are not forgotten.