AFRICAN AMERICAN AND SLAVE HISTORY

OF UNION COUNTY, N.C. & ANSON COUNTY, N.C.

and

SURROUNDING AREA

AS MENTIONED IN NEWSPAPERS OF THE TIME

 

 

October 19, 1809, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

RAN-AWAY From the subscriber on the 10th day of September, a bright mulatto fellow by the name of RALPH.  He is about 35 years old – a number of his fore teeth are missing – several before, so as to disqualify him from chawing anything hard.  He has a very down look.  He had on when he left me cotton clothes, except his coat, which was cotton cambrick, of a brown colour, made in the present fashion.  The coat had a pocket on the inside of the left lappell. –He is about five feet, eight or ten inches high – thick built. I expect he will attempt to pass for a free man, and, perhaps, aim for Richmond, in Virginia, where he was raised.  He left his former master, whose name was JEFFREY, (lived in South Carolina,) and passed for a free man for about fifteen months in the counties of Duplin, Bladen, and Jones, where he was at length taken up and committed to Wilmington Jail, where his master got him.  And person who will confine said Negro in Jail in this state so I get him again, shall receive a reward of ten dollars, and if delivered to me in Wadesborough, 25 dollars.

 

March 22, 1810, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-Fifty Dollars Reward. RANAWAY from the Subscriber on the 11th of September, 1809, a Mulatto fellow named JIM.  He is large and likely, about five feet eleven inches high, and aged thirty-five.  His face is overrun with marks of the Small Pox, and on one side of his nose (the right side I believe) there is a scar occasioned by the kick of a horse.  When he ran-away from me he carried with him a Bay Mare.  JIM can read and write and I expect he will pass himself for a free man.  I suspect he has gone to Wilmington, having connections there.  Any person who will deliver this boy into my possession shall receive Fifty Dollars, and Twenty-Five if he is secured in any jail.

Anson County, March 15, 1810.                                ROBERT CLARK.

 

August 13, 1813, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-COMMITTED to the jail of Anson county, on the 21st inst., a Negro man who called himself STEPHEN, but says he is known by the name of QUASH, (or sometimes called so) and that he belongs to Mrs. GILLIARD, of Santee, South Carolina.  He is a small Negro, 5 feet 3 inches high, quite black, about 25 years old.  The owner is requested to come forward, prove property, pay charges and take him away.

                                                                        W. HAMMOND, Sheriff.

Wadesborough, July 25th, 1813.

 

 

July 8, 1814, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-Fifty Dollars Reward.  RANAWAY from Wadesborough, Anson county, about the first of June, a Negro Man name JIM.  He was raised near Edenton in this State, by a Mr. HALSEY, and brought to Fayetteville by a Mr. Mills EVERETTE, about the Fall of 1804 or 5, and sold by him to the subscriber.  He is about a middling structure, of a round compact muscular make, somewhat bowlegged, of a very black complection, his nose flat, sunk cheeks, thick lips, with a fore tooth or two out, of a gruff, sullen aspect when serious, fluent in discourse with a quick and rapped utterance, particularly when a little intoxicated, which he is very subject to, is a black smith by trade, but expert at any bu----s, particularly at the saw.  Having had the chief management of the shop, it is supposed he is well supplied with money and clothes.  He is an artful, sensible, quick fellow, and may change his name or attempt to pass as a freeman.  The above reward will be given if taken up out of the county, and secured in any Jail so that I can get him again; ten dollars if apprehended within the county.  In either case if the captor choose to bring him to the subscriber in Wadesborough, he will be paid besides the reward, all reasonable expences.  If he resists a reward of five dollars will be given to any person killing him, in the attempt to take him.

                                                                        JAS. (JAMES) DOUGLAS

June 27, 1814

 

 

February 3, 1815, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-30 DOLLARS REWARD.  RANAWAY from the subscriber on the 8th inst., two Negroes, SAM and AMY.  Sam is an African fellow, thirty five or forty years of age, speaks English tolerably plain, and about a middle stature.  Amy is about 21 or 22 years of age, a small woman, yellow complection and is marked with the small pox.  One pit on the end of her nose, appears as if a small bit was taken out, keen black eyes, delicate appearance, having been brought up a house servant – she will aim for Norfolk from whence I have lately brought her.  She ran away from me in July last, twelve miles west from Murfreesborough, being on my way home from Norfolk, she reached Norfolk in about two weeks, where she was committed to Jail.  The fellow will no doubt accompany her.  They will aim for the following rout, Fayetteville, Averasborogh, Raleigh, Murfreesborough, or Winton.  The probability is , that Amy will leave Sam after a few days traveling, under the idea of passing for a free person, as she is a yellow girl.  I will give the above reward to any person who will secure them in any Jail in this State so that I get them again, or if taken separately twenty dollars for Amy and ten dollars for Sam.

                                                                                    JOHN M’RAE [McRAE]

Sneedsborough, Anson county, Jan. 9th, 1815.

 

 

February 20, 1818, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-Twenty Dollars Reward.  RANAWAY from the subscriber, near Sneedsborough, (Anson county,) a yellow man slave, by the name of LARRY, about 35 years old, 5 feet 10 or 11 inches high, straight and slender built, has a small piece taken from one of his ears, and on one of his legs is a large scar.  I purchased the said negro from General Gabriel HOLMES, of Sampson county, North Carolina.

            LARRY is a sensible polite fellow, and I think it probable that he has procured a pass, by which he will attempt to pass for a free man, and most likely will aim for Wilmington in this state, or Norfolk, Virginia, and take shipping; I am informed that he is acquainted at both those places.

            I forewarn all masters and owners of vessels, from employing or taking him on board, &c.

            I will pay the above reward to any person who will secure him to any jail, so that I get him, or deliver him to me and all reasonable expences paid. 

Sneedsborough, N.C. June 30, 1817              H. PEARSON

 

September 18, 1818, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-BROUGHT TO JAIL.  On the 10th instant, a negro man by the name of BILL, about 30 years of age, five feet 5 or 6 inches high, or a yellow complexion, says he belongs to Norman McLEAL of Montgomery county, N.C.  The owner is requested to come forward and pay charges and take him away.

Anson county, N. C.  Aug. 23d, 1818.                       PARKS BEEMAN, Jailor.

 

 

November 6, 1818, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-NOTICE. RUNAWAY from the Subscriber about the 26th of July last a negro woman named Sylecia(?), about 40 years of age, five feet seven or eight inches high, of a dark complexion, serious countenance and has a manly voice, had on when she left home white homespun clothing  and carried with her some clothes (not recollected).  And person securing this negro in any Jail, shall be entitled to a reward of Twenty dollars or Forty dollars if delivered to the Subscriber near the mouth of Rocky River, Anson county, N C. 

October 23.                                         ISAAC ABERCOMBIE, Sen. [possibly Abercrombie]

 

 

December 24, 1819, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-NOTICE. Negro Fellow who calls his name MILES, and says he belongs to Farher McCRAY, of Anson County.  He was confined in this jail on the 15th of the present month.  The owner is requested to come forward, pay charges, prove property, and take said negro. 

Greenville, Pitt Co.  Oct. 20, 1819                             Peter SUGG, Sh’ff

 

April 21, 1820, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-Taken up and committed in the jail of this place, a negro man by the name of DICK, (or DICK LITTLE) who upon examination, says that he is the property of FRED. ANDERSON, who formerly lived in the county of Anson, but removed to the Alabama Territory.  He is about 42 or 43 years old, about five feet four or five inches high, stout made, and very black.  The owner is requested to come forward and release him, or he will be dealt with as the law directs. 

Gates Court House, N.C.  March 10, 1821                H. GILLIAM

 

July 14, 1820, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-Ten Dollard Reward.  RANAWAY from the subscriber living one within one mile of Wadesboro’ Anson county, on the 4th day of this month (June) my Negro Man, WILLIS, about 22 years of age, 5 feet, 9 or 10 inches high, dark complexion.  Willis is a very stout, likely, sensible fellow, will probably attempt to pass himself for a freeman; he wore away a blue cloth coat, green pantaloons, and fur hat; he was raised in Norfolk, Virginia by a Mr. SHARP, where I expect he will try to get; he can read and write his name, has some knowledge of figures, beats the drum and plays the fife.  The above reward will be paid to any person who will deliver the said Negro to me, or secure him in any jail in the state so that I get him again. 

Wadesborough June 18.                                  ARCHIBALD SMITH

 

August 17, 1822, NEWBERN SENTINEL (Newbern, N.C.)

-Taken up and committed to the Jail of Jones County, a Negro Woman about thirty years of age, five feet eight inches high, yellow complexion, with large thick lips, has small scar  on the left cheek, and says she belongs to Anthony McGREGOR of Anson county, North Carolina.  The owner is requested to comply with the law and take said negro away.

Trenton, August 4th, 1822                               LEM’L HATCH, Shff.

 

 

August 27, 1829, STAR (Raleigh, N.C.)

-NOTICE. Ranaway from the subscriber’s plantation in Anson county, a negro man by the name of DEEN, about 35 years old, and remarkably black, with one squint eye.  DEEN had been confined in the Jail of Richmond county as a runaway for the last 15 months, from whence he made his escape, was retaken and lodged in the Jail of Lenoir county; was brought thence by the Jailor of Richmond to this place, confined in his Jail and sold out for his prison charges, at which sale he was purchased.  He took off with him his wife, a girl by the name of DOLLY, about 18 years old, also remarkably black, stout, and clumsily proportioned, the property of the Rev. ELIAS SINCLAIR, of this place; also another girl about 19 years old, by the name of JINNY, of a yellow complexion, and of ordinary size, the property of HAMPTON COVINGTON.  It is believed that said negroes are aiming for Pitt county, as negro DEEN’S wife recently was purchased there.  

Rockingham, Richmond county, July 24, 1829                      W. F. LEAK

 

Apr 4, 1861, NC Argus, Wadesboro, (Anson County, NC)

Died in Union county, on the 12th of March, Granny Sela (a slave, the property of Mrs. Jane GUTHINGS), age 110. Granny Sela said she was a grown woman in the Revolutionary War, and had three children when independence was declared... member of the Baptist Church.

 

Thursday, October 23, 1862  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Notice: On the 30th Inst., I will sell at auction to the highest bidder, at the late residence of Rilla GADDY, deceased, a negro man and woman and their ten children. Credit 6 months, bonds and good security. Joel GADDY, Adm’r.

 

Thursday, February 26, 1863  N. C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Hillsboro Recorder, 18th - Murder: On Thursday morning last, Mr. Isaac STROWD, living southwest of this place, near the Chatham lines, was killed by some negroes working with him who afterwards carried him about half a mile and buried him in an old field.  His body was not found until Sunday morning.  We understand one of the negroes has confessed that he killed him, but says that it was by accident.  The negroes, four in number, two men and two women, were brought to this place on Monday, and lodged in jail. 

 

Thursday, January 15, 1863  N. C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Notice: I hereby notify the representatives of James J. RORIE, Lydia GADDY and J--- POUNDS, also Judah POUNDS, or her representatives, Jas. DABBS, A. A. WHITE and wife Lydia, Absalom RORIE and the children of Sarah MEADOR, deceased, to be present at the sale of the lands and other property belonging to the estate of James RORIE, deceased, at the late residence of Sarah RORIE, deceased, on the 27th day of January next, at which time and place a division of the negroes belonging to said estate will be made among them as legatees in accordance with the provisions of the Will of the said Testator.  George DUNN, Esq.

 

Thursday, January 22, 1863  N. C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Small Pox…. Mr. Nathan HARRISON, in the country, and one or two negroes in town, have died of the disease since our last….. Salisbury Watchman.

 

Thursday, March 5, 1863  N. C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Hillsboro Recorder – Another murder – Mr. John LOCKHART, a respectable citizen residing in the northeastern section of this county, was murdered on Tuesday of last week by three negroes in his employ – one belonging to him and two hired.  The negroes have been lodged in jail in this place, to await their trial.

 

Thursday, March 26, 1863  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Hillsborough Recorder - Judge GILLIAM’S first Court was a Court of Oyer and Terminer held in this place.  The first case brought on was the trial of America, Daniel and Solomon, three slaves, for the murder of Mr. John LOCKHART… The next arraignment was Lucian and Allen, for the murder of Mr. Isaac STROWD  On Saturday night about 12 o’clock the Jury returned a verdict of guilty as to both.  On Monday, the five criminals were brought to court for sentence.  The judgment of the Court was that they be hung on Friday, the 10th day of April next…

 

Thursday, April 30, 1863  N. C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-$60 Reward – Ranaway from the Subscriber on Monday the 16th of March, my negro boy Sam. He is dark complected, medium height, 18 or 20 years old, and supposed to weigh about 140 pounds.  He answers impestinently (sic) when spoken to, and has a down look. He was raised by Mr. Lemuel D. BENNETT.  Also, on the 27th of April, my negro woman Liz.  She is yellow complected, 18 or 20 years old, weighs about 125 pounds and has an impudent look.  She will probably be found about the premises of Mr. Henry DeBERRY; he owns her relations.  A boy named Ben, hired of Mr. John SPENCER, left with the woman.  He is of a black color, thick liped (sic), medium height and size.  He has a wife at Mr. Mial WALL’S and is probably about there.  The woman and man last mentioned took with them a bundle of clothing each.  I will pay the above reward for said negroes delivered at High Mount, or confined in jail so I can get them, or $20 for either.  J. C. CARAWAY.

 

Thursday, October 15, 1863  N. C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Notice: The undersigned, having sued out Letters of Administration on the estate of William D. BIRD, deceased, at the July Term of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions for the County of Anson, A.D. 1863, will offer for sale, to the highest bidder, at the residence of the deceased, in the county aforesaid, on the 19th day of November next, the following property, viz: Four likely Negroes, a bale of Cotton, also some Corn, Fodder, Oats, Hogs, &c.  A credit of 6 months will be given, and note, with approved security, required.  All persons indebted to said estate, are requested to make payments without delay, and those having claims on said estate, are notified to present them for settlement, within the time prescribed by law.  October 12, 1863. M. C. LONG,  Administrator. 

 

Thursday, November 5, 1863  N. C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-State of North Carolina, Anson County. Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions. October Term 1863. Petition for Division of Slaves.  William A. RORIE and others, vs. Albert RORIE and wife Judith.  It appearing to the satisfaction of the court that the defendants Albert RORIE and his wife Judith RORIE, reside beyond the limits of this State, it is therefore ordered that publication be made for six successive weeks in the North Carolina Argus, notifying said defendants to be and appear at the next Term of this Court…

 

Thursday, April 7, 1864 N. C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Wilmington Journal – We learn from Mr. O. F. ALEXANDER, that on the 24th of February last, his negro girl Sarah Jane, left his premises without any cause, and he supposed she had gone to Newbern.  On Friday last, the 18th of March, he was informed that a free negro, called John SHAVERS, had carried her off.  That night two of his neighbors and himself went to look SHAVERS up, and luckily succeeded in taking him. On examining him, he said that he had carried the girl off to the edge of Onslow county and left her in a piece of woods in Mr. Seth KING’S field…. [Mr. ALEXANDER] found the dead body of the girl covered over with limbs, straw, etc… A jury of inquest was called and their verdict was, “that Sarah Jane come to her death by a blow or blows inflicted on the back of her head by the hands of John SHAVERS.”  A reward of $100 is offered for his arrest.

 

Thursday, April 7, 1864 N. C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Wilmington Journal – We learn from Mr. O. F. ALEXANDER, that on the 24th of February last, his negro girl Sarah Jane, left his premises without any cause, and he supposed she had gone to Newbern.  On Friday last, the 18th of March, he was informed that a free negro, called John SHAVERS, had carried her off.  That night two of his neighbors and himself went to look SHAVERS up, and luckily succeeded in taking him. On examining him, he said that he had carried the girl off to the edge of Onslow county and left her in a piece of woods in Mr. Seth KING’S field…. [Mr. ALEXANDER] found the dead body of the girl covered over with limbs, straw, etc… A jury of inquest was called and their verdict was, “that Sarah Jane come to her death by a blow or blows inflicted on the back of her head by the hands of John SHAVERS.”  A reward of $100 is offered for his arrest.

-We are pained to announce, says the Raleigh Progress, 2d, that Mr. Gray STRICKLAND, a worthy and industrious citizen of this county, living about six miles North of Raleigh, was murdered near his own house on Thursday or Thursday night…. [lengthy article]

-One of our most useful citizens no more! Hampton R. WEST, of Stanly county, died at his residence of typhoid pneumonia, on Sunday evening, the 3d of April, 1864, in the 53d year of his age.  The deceased was born in Anson county the 25th of December, 1811. On the 2d of May, 1842, he married Elizabeth A. MEACHUM, who died on the 30th of September, 1860, as she had lived – an earnest, devoted Christian; in the 38th year of her age.  Mr. WEST has left three children, but I trust that our loss will be his eternal gain.  Three of his children died in their infancy, and are numbered, according to our Saviour’s promise, with the angels of heaven…. The deceased had been residing in this county about 12 years (being formerly a citizen of Anson) during which time he made many friends and won the esteem of all who knew him… [lengthy obituary, but did not give any other family information]

 

 

Thursday, September 1 (or August 25 – pages are mixed up), 1864 N. C. ARGUS (Wadesboro’, Anson County, NC)

-Horrible Murder – We learn that Mrs. AUSTIN, wife of J. E. AUSTIN, living near Grassy Creek neighborhood, Union county, was murdered on Thursday last by one of Mr. AUSTIN’S negro men during his absence.  It appears that the negro had been stealing, and Mrs. AUSTIN had threatened to tell his master.  The next day she went to the field where the negro was at work, when he caught her and choked her to death.  The negro confessed the crime as soon as he was arrested.  Mrs. AUSTIN was between 40 and 50 years old.  Democrat, Aug. 30th. [Mrs. Austin prior to marriage was Lavina or Levinia Hamilton. See William Hamilton Bible printed 1834. http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/xFh.2ACEB/3659. Child of William & Sarah Hamilton: Lavina Hamilton b. May 4, 1817; d. Aug. 26, 1864; md Feb. 25, 1836 to John E. Austin.]

 

Thursday, November 10, 1864 N. C. ARGUS (Wadesboro’, Anson County, NC)

-In Union county last week, the negro man and woman who murdered Mrs. John E. AUSTIN last summer, were tried, found guilty and sentenced to be hanged on the 25th of November.  A man named HELMS, charged with being accessory to the shooting of LITTLE, was tried and acquitted.  It will be remembered that MEDLIN, HELMS, and other deserters, were concealed in a house when the deceased LITTLE, and other officers, approached it for the purpose of capturing them.  MEDLIN is to be tried here this week. Charlotte Democrat.

 

Thursday, June 28, 1866  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-On Sunday last two negroes who had been arrested in this county were carried to Stanly county, charged with breaking into and robbing the store of Messrs. SMITH & WATKINS, at Norwood (or Center) of about $100 worth of goods.  A part of the goods was found in their possession, and a great part of the balance was found in Rocky River, where the thieves had thrown the articles to elude detection.  At the time they did it they were closely pursued by the officers.

-Charles PARKS, a freedman, now confined to the jail of Mecklenburg, under sentence of death for murdering his wife, is to be hung tomorrow, the Democrat states.

 

Thursday, November 22, 1866  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-On Thursday of week before last, whilst Mrs. GERVIN and her daughters were riding out, near Orangeburg, S.C., two negroes, armed with axes, attacked and brutally murdered them both, knocking them in the head with their axes.  The murderers were soon after arrested and hung by outraged itizens.  The order-loving and law-abiding negroes were as badly incensed against these demons as were their white neighbors, and would, if they were allowed, have tied them to a stake and burned instead of hung them.

 

October 1, 1867, WESTERN DEMOCRAT (Charlotte, Mecklenburg Co., NC)

-Union County – We learn that some difficulty occurred in Union county last week between the Sheriff and parties who resisted his authority.  It seems that a negro man from abroad has recently went to that county and been behaving badly.  He carried concealed weapons and had been drilling the negroes in military companies.  The Sheriff was ordered by the commander of this District to arrest him, which he did, when a mob of blacks and whites released the prisoner from the hands of the Sheriff by force.  Whereupon Capt. LAZELLE promptly sent a detachment of soldiers to the county and arrested the persons concerned in interfering with the Sheriff.  Some four or five white men and as many negroes were brought to this place and confined to Jail.  They deserve and no doubt will receive severe punishment. The trial of these persons was commenced at Headquarters on Saturday last.

 

Thursday, May 28, 1868  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Attempt to raise an Insurrection – On Saturday last Reuben MEDLEY and Vincent MEDLEY, (colored), father and son, former slaves of Joseph MEDLEY, esq., were arrested and had an examination before John BROADAWAY and M. P. MASK, Esqs., and committed to jail by them, upon charges of attempting to raise an insurrection and making threats to kill certain persons, one of whom, their old master, Mr. MEDLEY, was particularly mentioned….. Our jail still being in a ruined condition they were sent to Union county…. [lengthy article]

 

Thursday, June 25, 1868  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesborough, Anson County, NC)

-Notice – Is hereby given that Elisha TILLMAN, freedman, under contract to work for me the current year, has left my service without proper cause.  All persons wishing to employ will take due notice and govern themselves accordingly.  S. H. GADDY. June 16, 1868.

 

Thursday, May 27, 1869  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesboro’, Anson County, NC)

-Several negroes, who said they were from Richmond, Va., called at the house of Jacob KIRBY, freedman, in the Pee Dee neighborhood, in Anson, just before the day, on the 21st, and requested him to accompany them as guide to the Railroad.  He told them he would when it was light.  They then asked for food, and KIRBY’S wife handed them some through a crevice, being afraid to open the door.  They then broke down the door, rushed in and clubbed KIRBY fearfully, and then shot him in the shoulder, the ball passing through and wounding his wife in the arm.  The villains then made their escape.  Our information is from a reliable source. There were two shots fired, and our informant is not positive as to which struck the woman.  KIRBY’S fodder was burned up by a set of scamps some weeks ago, who, being about to be discovered, it is supposed, took this way of being avenged.  Let them be arrested immediately.

            Two negroes, Ed HUNTLEY and Frank BENNETT, have been arrested and put in jail as the supposed perpetrators of the horrible act.

            Jake’s case, we understand from his attending physician, is very critical.

            Jake is Conservative in politics, and a most estimable man; and this fact, coupled with previous threats against him by Radicals, may, in a measure, account for the fearful onslaught against his life. [also see June 3rd issue]

-Tough Negro – We are informed that Ben RORY, near White’s Store, was shot while going to a spring for water, by some person in an ambush, and fifty or sixty squirrel shot lodged in his body.  At last accounts, he was doing remarkably well.  Shooting men has become entirely too common a pastime, and should be visited with the utmost rigor of the law.

 

Thursday, June 3, 1869  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesboro’, Anson County, NC)

-We learn that Jake KIRBY, the colored man who was attacked and dangerously wounded a few days since by three soulless Africans, died on Monday last from the effects of the wounds. [see May 27th issue]

 

Thursday, Aug 5, 1869  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesboro’, Anson County, NC)

-Attacked by Negroes: As Mr. William GRIFFIN was returning home from Raleigh, Tuesday, he was beset by six negro men, near Walnut Creek, south of the city, who at first asked to be allowed to ride in his wagon. On being told they could not do so, they swore they would and moved as if to get in.  Mr. GRIFFIN drove off, when they commenced throwing stones at him, which they continued to do as they could come in reach of him until he reached COOK’S lane, beyond the Creek.  Mr. GRIFFIN had no arms, which is to be very much regretted.

 

Tuesday, January 3, 1871, THE SOUTHERN HOME (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, NC)

-Foul Murder, Robbery and House Burning.- On Tuesday night last, some negroes visited the house of Mr. Edward SMITH, some ten miles east of this city, and knocked at the door, asking permission to enter and warm, (it being very cold) and as Mr. SMITH opened the door one of the party fired on him, killing him instantly. Mrs. SMITH, making her appearance, was knocked down and left as dead when the fiends proceeded to rob the house of what money and valuables they could find. Mrs. S. having recovered, made her escape, and after the thieves had got what they went after, they set fire to the building and made their escape. The body of Mr. SMITH was consumed with the burning building.  We learn from Mr. LITTLE, Coroner, that the parties who perpetrated the deed have been arrested and lodged in jail. Mrs. SMITH is so badly beaten that it is impossible for her to live long. We have heard no further particulars. Charlotte Observer.

 

Thursday, December 3, 1874,  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesboro’, Anson County, NC)

-Sunday night about 8 o’clock a small negro boy, son of Sandy INGRAM, of this place, was seriously burned by the upsetting of a kerosene lamp.  He died within [page torn] eighteen hours afterwards. 

 

Thursday, January 28, 1875,  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesboro’, Anson County, NC)

-Correspondent – Troy, Montgomery, N.C., January 17, 1875.  … Our Sheriff has been notified of the murder, in December, in the extreme Southern part of this county, of David McKAY, colored, by Lewis LINDSAY, colored, formerly slave of Mr. Charles LINDSAY, of Anson.  We also learn that there was a negro killed by a white man yesterday, between Mt. Gilead and LITTLE’S Mills in this county; but don’t know the particulars….

 

Thursday, May 11, 1876,  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesboro’, Anson County, NC)

-Accidental Shooting.- In the neighborhood of Grassy Islands, one Wyatt KIRBY, was accidentally shot on last Saturday, by a gun in the hands of one Sandy McRAE, both negroes.

 

Thursday, June 1, 1876,  N.C. ARGUS (Wadesboro’, Anson County, NC)

-Homicide.-On last Thursday, one Allen FRITZ, a negro, was shot and killed in the yard of Mrs. Jenny MAY, by Daniel MCCOY, a white man. It seems that the parties were laboring in adjoining fields (FRITZ being a tenant of Mrs. MAY’S) and the cause of the falling out being about an ax that FRITZ had borrowed, with a promise to return by a specified time, and having failed to do so, one word brought on another till both parties became so excited that they left the fields, and as it afterwards turned out, for the purpose of procuring arms.  The negro had borrowed a gun while MCCOY had gone home after his, and after coming back to the field up on discovering that the negro had left MCCOY proceeded to the residence of Mrs. MAY, and seeing the negro in the yard armed and equipped for the fray, he fired upon him, killing him almost instantly.  MCCOY has left for parts unknown, and there is not at present much likelihood of his capture.

 

Wednesday, February 19, 1879 PEE DEE HERALD (Wadesboro, Anson County, NC)

-Anderson TILLMAN, an old negro man living six miles South of this place fell dead on last Thursday. He died from heart disease.

 

Wednesday, March 5, 1879 PEE DEE HERALD (Wadesboro, Anson County, NC)

-Deaths: … Wife of Peter HORNE, colored, formerly a slave of Hampton HAMMOND, Esq.

 

Wednesday, March 12, 1879 PEE DEE HERALD (Wadesboro, Anson County, NC)

-Deaths: …Colored: Caroline HOWZE, wife of Isaac HOWZE. Formerly a slave of Mrs. Julia LEAK.

 

Wednesday, October 1, 1879 PEE DEE HERALD (Wadesboro, Anson County, NC)

-A negro child, three years of age, son of Hal HUNTLEY, died on Monday, 22nd inst., at the house of his father, who resides in the lower part of the county, under very suspicious circumstances… The child came to its death from starvation and cruel beating at the hands of its father. The negro was arrested and lodged in jail.

 

Wednesday, November 26, 1879 PEE DEE HERALD (Wadesboro, Anson County, NC)

-Wm. COLE, Deputy Sheriff of Robeson County, was shot and killed while reading a State’s warrant to a negro whom he had arrested on Friday night last. Deceased was a nephew of Mr. J. C. YATES of this county.

 

Wednesday, December 3, 1879 PEE DEE HERALD (Wadesboro, Anson County, NC)

-Anson Superior Court - …five capital cases to be tried; to wit: Jim GREEN, negro, for the killing of another negro. [The above cases were removed to this county from Richmond County for trial;] … Hal HUNTLY, negro, for maltreatment of child, which caused its death…

 

Saturday, February 7, 1880, MONROE ENQUIRER (Union County, NC)

-Mr. John Flow recovered his overcoat a few days ago, and the Negro Jim McManus, who stole it, is now in jail.

 

Thursday, March 24, 1881 ANSON TIMES (Wadesboro, Anson Co., NC)

-A negro boy named LINDSEY was accidentally caught in the machinery of Mr. Geo. LITTLE’S steam mill last Saturday, and from the injuries he sustained, died shortly afterwards.

 

Thursday, August 18, 1881 ANSON TIMES (Wadesboro, Anson Co., NC)

-Norwood: Two negro girls were shot one night last week about two miles this side of Rocky River Springs by some white women of low character. It is thought one of them will not recover. The woman, Margaret HONEYCUTT by name, who did the shooting, and also a negro who furnished the gun, were arrested and carried off before Esquire DAVIS for a preliminary trial. They were bound over to Court, but in carrying them to jail the negro escaped and has not been heard from since. The woman was confined in jail.

 

Thursday, August 25, 1881 ANSON TIMES (Wadesboro, Anson Co., NC)

-An old negro woman named Ann DIGGS living upon the place of Mr. James PRATT, fell dead on Tuesday last. Heart disease supposed to be the cause. She was apparently well up to the time of her death.

 

October 18, 1883, THE NORTH STATE (Greensboro, Guilford County, N.C.)

-On the 21st ultimo, while a number of hands were at work on the McCAIN road in Buford township, Union county, Mr. R. A. BARRET, a white man, and John CANTEY, a negro, got into a difficulty, when BARRETT knocked CANTEY over the head with a shovel, fracturing his skull and producing a wound which it is thought will prove fatal.

 

Thursday, March 27, 1884, THE NORTH STATE (Greensboro, Guilford County, N.C.)

-A negro girl killed a child of Capt. D. N. BENNETT of Anson County, recently, by giving it poison.

 

March 12, 1885, PEOPLE’S PRESS (Winston-Salem, NC)

Died: Lee STATEN, a Negro, taken from jail and lynched by a crowd of indignant people, in Monroe.  The Negro had committed an outrage upon a little girl nine years of age, inflicting injuries from which the child died. 

 

Thursday, January 21, 1886 ANSON TIMES (Wadesboro, Anson County, NC)

-Brown Creek: Jesse BILLINGSLEY, and aged and demented negro, was frozen to death during the cold wave of last week.

 

May 5, 1887, THE GLEANER (Graham, Alamance County, N.C.)

-Monroe Enquirer and Express – Mr. J. E. HINSON, of Monroe, was returning home from GOODMAN’S tanyard last Friday when a stout mulatto, apparently about thirty years of age, came up to him and asked permission to ride.  Mr. HINSON replied that he was heavily loaded and could not accommodate him.  To this the negro replied that he guessed he would and without more ado he pulled out his pistol and begun firing on him.  He fired three shots, one of which struck him on one of his fingers, tearing out a small piece of flesh.  The negro then fled, and Mr. HINSON saw nothing more of him. 

 

January 7, 1890, Charlotte Chronicle, (Mecklenburg County, NC)

EMIGRATION AGENTS

They Were Working in Charlotte Yesterday, and Made Some Converts.

            Emigration agents have struck Charlotte. Yesterday all day long groups of negroes could be seen at different places on the streets. They usually surrounded a white man, who was constantly portraying, in a very impassioned manner, the superior advantages and inducements offered by Arkansas and other Southwestern States. A CHRONICLE reporter, in his rounds yesterday, frequently stumbled upon the agent and his eager and interested hearers (sic). Occasionally some of the negroes who are opposed to the emigration movement would argue the question, but the glowing picture of the great Southwest contrasted with what the agent called the depressed condition of affairs in North Carolina, in many cases, convinced the darkies that the objective point of the emigrant is far superior in every aspect to North Carolina.

            The agent began work in Charlotte yesterday, and the reporter learned that some of the negroes are already seriously considering exodusting (sic).

            The agent said that he wanted to establish a settlement in Woodruff county, Arkansas, but that he will take emigrants to Mississippi, Alabama, or other parts of Arkansas. He says that he wants to secure 50 white families, and will take any number of negroes, from 50 to 500. Farms, provisions, and railroad fare are offered on the same conditions upon which so many have already gone. The agent may get enough negroes and whites, too, to fill his orders, but many of the Charlotte negroes are averse to the idea of trying the realities of the other side of the Mississippi.

 

Jan 8, 1890, Charlotte Chronicle, (Mecklenburg County, NC)

MORE EMIGRANTS

The movement from North Carolina to the South and West Continues.

            An emigrant train in charge of J.W. Hicks, passed through Charlotte Monday night. There were two carloads of negroes and about 100 white people. One man said that he had his wife, two sons and daughters, and 21 grand-children along with him. The whites were from Union and Moore counties, and were on their way to Texas and Arkansas. Another batch of emigrants passed through yesterday morning. There were about 200 negroes and a few white families. All of them were from the eastern counties, and were on their way to Alabama. The negroes said that the exodus movement will continue active, and that many more negroes will leave soon. They were in good spirits, and seemed hopeful.

 

December 1, 1892, THE LANDMARK (Statesville, NC)

-Wednesday morning of last week Mr. Francis TALLY, who lived alone near New London, Stanly county, was found brutally murdered. He had been killed with an axe.  His neck was cut about half off and five gashes were cut on the back of the head and he had been struck over the left eye with the pole of the axe, mashing in his head and eye.  The Stanly News says he was a very quiet man and it is not known that he had an enemy in the world.  Robbery is supposed to have been the object of the murder.  The Salisbury Herald says two white men and a Negro have been arrested and jailed on suspicion.

 

May 18, 1893, THE LANDMARK (Statesville, NC)

-A crowd of 27 horsemen and one man in a cart leading a horse rode quietly into Wadesboro Sunday night of last week. They rode through town, past the jail and in a few moments returned and left the town in the same manner in which they entered it.  It is thought their business was to lynch Andy HARRIS, colored, who killed Herbert LEROY, white, in Anson county week before last, but it is supposed their courage failed them at the last moment.  The authorities, anticipating another attempt have removed the Negro to Robeson county jail.

 

December 26, 1894, North Carolina Christian Advocate (Greensboro, Guilford Co., N.C.)

-Monroe cor. [correspondent of the] Charlotte Observer: The most useful mule that has ever been in this section did farm work during the past year on the old WALKUP place for a darkey named Ben CROW.  Ben bought the mule on credit for $40, and bought his guanao and supplies for the summer on time.  With this old mule he made twelve 500-pound bales of cotton besides other stuff.  When he paid for the mule, his guana and supplies, he had a surplus of four bales left.  He cultivated a space of about twenty acres.

 

Wednesday, February 27, 1895  PLOW BOY (Wadesboro, Anson Co, NC)

-Jeff BENNETT, a respected negro of Wadesboro and driver of a bus,  died last Sunday morning of yellow jaundice.

 

Tuesday, April 14, 1903, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Henry COVINGTON, an old darkey well known about town, died Friday and his home on Mr. Randolph REDFEARN’S premises.  He had been a servant in Mr. REDFEARN’S family almost constantly since the war.  Henry was an honest, faithful, humble man and had the respect of the white people.  He was once worth some property, but lost it by going security for some members of his race.

 

Tuesday, May 19, 1903, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Benjamin E. BLACKMON, a well-to-do farmer of Lancaster county, living near Primus, was shot and killed Saturday night by one of his tenants, a darky named Sandy MILLER.  They had been to Lancaster together, and on returning stopped at the darkey’s house.  The negro who gave himself up to the sheriff, says that BLACKMON was cursing MILLER’S wife, and when he interfered BLACKMON attacked him with a demijohn, and he shot him in self defense.  BLACKMON was a large farmer, and was drinking on this occasion.

 

Tuesday, July 7, 1903, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Mrs. Lizzie WENTZ, a white woman of Vance township, was robbed and assaulted Sunday night before last, and on Thursday night the negro perpetrator of the crime [John Osborne] was lynched…  [Mrs. WENTZ was 64 and OSBORNE about 26]  [lengthy article]

 

Tuesday, October 13, 1903, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Charles McNEELY, a negro, was killed by Cull BARRETT, another negro, in Sandy Ridge township near Eld. Oliver ROGERS’ place, Sunday night… BARRETT has not yet been arrested.

 

Tuesday, November 24, 1903, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Joe NELSON, the negro who attempted an assault upon the little sister of Mr. Will PORTER of Monroe, at her father’s farm in upper Chesterfield on Sunday before last, was hanged near Jefferson last Saturday night….

 

Tuesday, February 16, 1904, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-A 2-year-old negro child of Lem ROBINSON’S, who lives on Mr. Ed STARNES place in Buford township, was burned to death yesterday afternoon.  Its mother left it in the house alone.

 

Tuesday, March 1, 1904, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Hanging of Anson County - The Execution of BOGGAN the First Legal One in that County in 33 Years – Negro Was in Monroe Jail for Safekeeping - This afternoon at eight minutes before 1 o’clock, Sheriff John A. BOGGAN sprung the trigger that launched the body of Will BOGGAN, the murderer of John A. SULLIVAN, into eternity…..   The crime, in expiation of which Will BOGGAN has paid the extreme penalty of the law, was committed Saturday night, the 28th of February, 1903, about 9:45 o’clock.  On this night John A. SULLIVAN, a native of this county, who lived in the Beverly neighborhood, about 6 miles from town, was shot down, in cold blood, in the alleyway between the Klondyke Hotel building and WILLIAMS Bros.’ store….  The hanging of BOGGAN was the first legal execution that has taken place in Anson county in thirty-three years.  On the 21st day of July, 1871, Lewis and Ned MYERS were hanged by Maj. James W. WALL, then Sheriff of the county, for the assassination of J. W. REDFEARN, a prominent citizen of the county who merchandised at White Store.   After Mr. REDFEARN was killed his store was robbed of about $800 in money, the most of which was recovered on the person of Lewis MYERS, son of Ned MYERS who was arrested at Cheraw a few days after the killing. [lengthy article]

 

Tuesday, March 22, 1904, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Uncle Stephen BARRETT, a well known old colored man of Monroe, called “The Bishop,” went to Charlotte one day last week, and, armed with a pardon from Governor AYCOCK, brought his son Jim home from the Mecklenburg chain gang.  Uncle Stephen wants to thank the good governor for the pardon for his boy, and the old darkey is certainly sincere in his gratitude, as his boy was sick.

 

Tuesday, March 22, 1904, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Ruined by a little money! That is the fate of Henry WEDDINGTON, a colored man, and a good type of his race.  Nearly two years ago Mr. R. B. WEDDINGTON, a prominent farmer and a wealthy, philanthropic and eccentric citizen, died.  He had owned the parents of Henry WEDDINGTON and had owned Henry when he was a small boy.  Emancipation made no difference to the colored WEDDINGTON family.  They continued to live with and work for Mr. WEDDINGTON.  The old negroes died, but Henry stayed on with Mr. WEDDINGTON.  He lived simply and was happy.  His wants were small; he knew little about money.  He toiled with a song on his lips and peace in his heart; and when he was 50 years of age he showed a well-rounded character.  His word was good; he was faithful in his service, serious in demeanor, steady and dependable in his duties.  Then Mr. WEDDINGTON died and left Henry large possessions.  By the terms of his will he received about $200 in cash, a fine farm of 118 acres, and the best mule that belonged to the WEDDINGTON estate.  The effect of the sudden acquisition of property seemed to daze Henry at first….  Then Henry went forth and purchased a rubber-tired buggy.  This was the main turning point in his life – a menace that was dangerous enough to affect even a more intelligent man than Henry….  And Henry’s whole nature changed after he began to ride in that rubber tired buggy.  The downfall was quick.  Inspired by the belief that he was a very rich man, Henry WEDDINGTON bought everything in sight, to use a colloquialism…..  Henry neglected his work.  He and his family sat around and ate candy and were restless…..  Ruin came in a year….  Ruined by a little money! That is the fate of Henry WEDDINGTON, a colored man and a good type of his race.  Doom came in a smart, brand new rubber-tired buggy, and told an old, old story. [lengthy article]

 

Tuesday, April 5, 1904, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Warren C. COLEMAN, one of the wealthiest negroes of the State, died Thursday at his home in Concord.  Born and raised in Concord, he lived and labored there, took care of his investments and soon became wealthy.  His influence was felt far and near, and he was a real benefactor of his race.  Some years ago he undertook the building of a mill, the Coleman Manufacturing Company at that place, operated by negroes, and whatever degree of success it attained was due entirely to COLEMAN.  COLEMAN owned a little property in Monroe.

 

Tuesday, July 5, 1904, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-Uncle Solomon NANCE, an old darkey of Marshville township, was here Thursday.  He says this town has grown plum out of his knowledge, that he “hope [help?] make it and now don’t know it.”  Uncle Sol is a carpenter and says he helped build “Mr. Tommy WINCHESTER’S house,” which sat where the Methodist church now stands, and was built years before the war.  He can read and write and says he is 84 or 85.

 

Tuesday, November 22, 1904, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-“The last one of the old darkies of our neighborhood died last night,” said ‘Squire Henry McWHORTER of WILSON’S Old Store yesterday. “It was old Aunt Jane NELSON. She was a good old woman and well liked by the white people.”

 

Tuesday, December 6, 1904, THE MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.)

-At the hearing before ‘Squire FLOW last Tuesday of Marion CUMMINGS, the negro who shot the Italian boy and man and killed their monkey, was bound over to court…

 

Jan 25, 1910, MONROE JOURNAL (Union County, N.C.) (photocopy)

-Couldn’t Stand Anson – No Bologna Sausage and Light Bread and Climate Cold as H--l, Italians Skidooed – Italian labor in Anson, so far, has not proved a success. Readers of the Messenger and Intelligencer will remember that mention was made in the paper recently of the fact that a number of Italians had been brought to Anson by the contractors who are reconstructing the Atlantic Coast Line railroad in this county. These Italians, who were landed at the camp at Bennett station, six miles south of Wadesboro, were intended to take the place of the Negroes, who, it was given out, were not satisfactory workers.

 

July 26, 1910, Monroe Journal (Union County, NC)

Brief abstracts of deaths:

-J. M. SING, marshal of McFarland (Anson Co.), age 38, shot by Claude THOMAS (negro railroad hand)…

 

Tuesday, Nov. 1, 1910, Monroe Journal (Union County, NC)

Brief abstracts of deaths:

-John FUNDERBURK, a negro who worked for Mr. M. A. WALTERS, was found dead last Saturday morning… about 35 years old… He was generally known as John ERVIN.

 

January 30, 1923, Monroe Journal, (Union County, NC)

-Monroe Woman Recalls Many Incidents of the Career of the Famous Darky Musician.  When I [Mrs. L. A. TOTTEN]  was a girl, nearly fifty years ago, Dick LATTA and his wife lived in a small tenant house belonging to my father. In those days nearly all the young folks danced, and “Uncle Dick’s Orchestra” played for our various balls and parties…. When Dick was a young man he was bought by a Mr. LATTA from his first owner, a Mr. HACKETT….

 

Friday, February 2, 1923, Monroe Journal, (Union County, NC)

-Pastor of one church for thirty-six years is the enviable record of Rev. W. S. Waddell, well-known colored minister. Antioch Baptist church, near Charlotte, is his charge, and friends of the preacher, who is seventy years old, expect him to serve for many more years. Rev. Waddell has a vivid recollection of pre-war days. He remembers being sold at the Polly Meadors sale, previous to the declaration of war between the states, to J. Jackson, of Chesterfield county.  His mother, sold at the same time, brought $800 but he does not remember the price he fetched.  When the war ended, the preacher says he was picked up by a Yankee regiment, told that he was free, and that they were going to take him north and give him an education. “I went along,” says Rev. Waddell, “but after we passed through Anson county, and when I thought we were almost up north, I found that we had around 2500 miles to go. That was too great a distance for my childish mind to comprehend, so when night came I slipped away, hot-footing it back to my old mistress and master.”

 

Tuesday, July 31, 1923, The Monroe Journal, (Union County, NC)

-Old Time Crowd Attends Court - …Ernest CURETON, the Jackson township negro who slew his baby, plead guilty… sent to the penitentiary for ten years…

 

 

ALSO OF INTEREST:

OLD CEMETERIES: Almost every home had its family "graveyard," and these old cemeteries are filled with tombstones dating back to the 18th century. Many of these were hand-made, cut out of soap stone; the ravages of time and weather have erased most of the lettering. It was the custom to leave one side of the graveyard for the slaves. Among the oldest of these old cemeteries is the Redfearn family cemetery located on the old farm of Nimrod Redfearn. The grave of Nimrod Redfearn and that of his son, Wilson, were marked with soap stone slabs, which have crumbled with age. There are evidences of other graves, some with soap stone slabs, some with brown rock, and others with decaying oak markers. A few railings of the old fence are still lying around. On one side are the graves of the slaves. Ref: White Store Township-Cemeteries and Historical Event.

 

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This page created February 3, 2011 by Julie Hampton Ganis