About Bill

"Keeper of the Knowledge"

William L “Night Owl” Deyo, former President of the Virginia Genealogical Society, caught the genealogical bug at an early age and his inquisitive nature and dedication is a major reason why so much has been re-discovered about the Patawomeck Tribe’s long lineage and their incredible tale of survival despite multiple obstacles.

William L Deyo, accomplished Genealogist and Patawomeck Tribal Historian, Emeritus, has written numerous publications about the Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia as well as published and contributed to the publication of a number of books and articles. He is also a member of numerous genealogical and historical societies. William L. Deyo was recognized as a “Keeper of the Knowledge” for his dedication to preserving and contributing to the history of Stafford County. He certainly was instrumental in preserving the Tribe’s rich history and his research was a vital part of the Tribe being granted state recognition.

Without his inquisitiveness and quest for the truth many of these connections may have been lost to history forever!

DeJoux Publications

DeJoux Publications is owned and operated by Bill Deyo. It began in 1998 and was named in honor of the ancestral name of his family of Deyo, whose original name "de Jura" was derived from the Jura Mountains on the border of France, where the family castle, the Chateau de Joux, still stands today.

this year Dejoux publications celebrates its 27th year!!

History and Connection

When asked about the importance of history and connection, this is what Bill had to say:

"The Deyo ancestors came to America after fleeing from religious persecution as Huguenots and endured many hardships. They were the ancestors of my father. My mother's family descended from the Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia, who intermarried with the English settlers in the 1600's. One of my mother's lines even descended from African slaves. All of this gives me a deep appreciation of all who came before me and the many different cultures of which they belonged. It is important to me to preserve their heritage and memory. It has been said that a person only really dies when their name is no longer remembered. Through genealogy we remember the names of each ancestor and keep them alive!"

Photo Gallery

Select the 'View Gallery" button below for the photo gallery of pictures important to the author.

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It has been said that a person only really dies when their name is no longer remembered. Through genealogy we remember the names of each ancestor and keep them alive!

Bill Deyo "Night Owl"