Garrard County KY

Biography of Stephen Best

Stephen Best, an Irish emigrant, settled in Pennsylvania before the American Revolution and fathered several children, including Isaac and Ebenezer. Ebenezer, an accomplished horse racer known for his chicken fights, left a legacy of educating sixty children. Isaac relocated to Missouri in 1808, building a fort for his family amid Indian hostilities. He later moved them to Fort Clemson for safety. His extensive family included sons John and Stephen, and daughters Polly, Phoebe, Sally, and Peggy, with John marrying twice and having multiple children.

Slave Narrative of Wes Woods

Wes Woods, born on May 21, 1864, in Garrard County, Kentucky, shared his experiences as a former slave during an interview with Eliza Ison. He described his early life on a plantation owned by Mrs. Eliza Kennedy and later John Yeakey, where he lived with his family in log cabins. Woods recounted his fond memories of work, hunting, and fishing, and noted the absence of harsh punishment under his master. He shared his religious beliefs and the joy of freedom, emphasizing a life of faith and preparation for the afterlife.

Slave Narrative of Belle Robinson

The interview with Belle Robinson, born in Garrard County, Kentucky, on June 3, 1853, reveals her experiences as a former slave. She recounts her life spent with the Brady family, emphasizing her close relationship with them and her upbringing. Belle describes being well cared for, wearing similar clothing to her white counterparts and enjoying shared meals. Despite her young age during slavery, she reflects on her family’s roles, her mother cooking for the family, and her father’s work, noting a lack of punishment among neighboring slaves.

Slave Narrative of Bert Mayfield

Bert Mayfield, born on May 29, 1852, in Garrard County, Kentucky, reflects on his life as an enslaved person on Smith Stone’s plantation. He describes the living conditions, including cabins with lofts and communal meals centered around simple foods like bacon and pone bread. Mayfield recalls seasonal activities such as sugar harvesting and community gatherings. He shares memories of learning to read, attending church, and the care provided by his owners. After emancipation, he expressed gratitude for his freedom and admiration for Abraham Lincoln’s stance against slavery.

Slave Narrative of Aunt Harriet Mason

Aunt Harriet Mason, born on April 14, 1847, in Garrard County, Kentucky, shares her experiences as an ex-slave. Owned by B.M. Jones, she recounts her family background and life on a plantation in Texas, where she worked as a nursemaid and housemaid without pay, receiving food similar to that of the family. Harriet describes the kind treatment from her masters, General Gano and Miss Nat, including educational opportunities. After the end of slavery, she returned to Kentucky and eventually settled in Lancaster, where she raised nine children and remained active in her church.

Slave Narrative of George Henderson

George Henderson, born on May 10, 1860, in Woodford County, Kentucky, recalls his life as a slave on a 400-acre plantation. He describes the living conditions in log cabins, daily chores, and the family dynamics among the 21 children born to his father, Bradford Henderson. Work included feeding animals and maintaining vegetable gardens. While he never earned money, he recalls special occasions like Christmas and the community dances. After emancipation, he continued to stay with his former master for a time and later married, having a total of eight grandchildren.

Slave Narrative of Harriet Mason

In her interview, 100-year-old Harriet Mason recounts memories from her childhood as a slave in Kentucky, including her longing to reunite with her mother and a near encounter with danger from a snake. She recalls social events like dances, the sternness of her mistress, and experiences involving her peers, including playful but painful incidents. Despite lessons in obedience and the harsh realities of her life, she expresses gratitude for her longevity and the desire to remain with her daughter, Lilly.

Slave Narrative of Dan Bogie

In an interview conducted by Eliza Ison on May 5, 1858, Dan Bogie recounts his life as a slave in Garrard County, Kentucky. Born on the same day as the interview, he shares details about his family, living conditions, and daily tasks on the Wheeler plantation. He describes the simplicity of their cabin, the food prepared, and his experiences with education, which was unavailable to him as a slave. Bogie notes the kindness of his masters and reflects on community gatherings and family events, emphasizing a life marked by both hardship and companionship.

Biography of John R. Tercy

John R. Tercy, born on September 19, 1858, in Indianapolis, Indiana, serves as the probate judge of Ellsworth County, Kansas. With a background as a Presbyterian minister, Tercy has a rich history in public service, including his prior role as county treasurer. He graduated from Hanover College and the Union Theological Seminary. Tercy has been actively involved in various community organizations, including the Masonic Lodge and the Odd Fellows. He married Laura C. Andrews in 1907 and is the father of five children.

Biographical Sketch of J. S. Garner, M. D.

J. S. Garner, M. D. was born on October 14, 1831, in Russell County, Kentucky. At 18, he apprenticed with Dr. J. S. Pierce and later attended medical lectures in Louisville. He practiced in Wayne County until 1863 when he enlisted as First Lieutenant in the 48th Regiment, Kentucky Volunteers, serving eighteen months in the Civil War. After the war, he settled in Salisbury, Coles County, where he still practices medicine and serves as Postmaster. He married Minnie E. Roberts in 1854 and they have seven children.

Myth at Uncle Tom’s Cabin

In Garrard County, the myth surrounding the celestial event of 1833 is illustrated through a story involving young Tom at the Old Thomas Kennedy farm, depicted in Uncle Tom’s Cabin. While playing cards, boys are interrupted by a slave announcing that the heavens are falling. Curious, young Tom investigates the claim, witnessing the meteor shower firsthand. Alarmed, he retreats to the main house, seeking sanctuary on a feather bed and praying for assistance amidst the striking spectacle.