Macon Georgia

Slave Narrative of Della Briscoe

Della Briscoe, a former slave from Macon, Georgia, recounts her childhood on David Ross’s plantation, revealing her family’s struggles and daily life. Separated from her mother, she grew up under the care of her grandmother. Della describes varying degrees of punishment, meager rations, and the lack of crime on the plantation. She shares experiences during the Civil War, including a raid by Union soldiers and the kindness shown to her by Mr. Ross after he learned of her warning. Now elderly and living with her granddaughter, Della reflects on her past with gratitude.

Slave Narrative of Berry Clay

Berry Clay, interviewed at 89 years old, reflects on his life in Macon, Georgia, where he grew up in a family of mixed heritage. Although he was never enslaved, he recounts stories from that era, including his stepfather’s unique method of punishing slaves. He describes the social dynamics of plantation life, church involvement, and the impact of the Civil War. After Emancipation, Clay worked as a painter, emphasizing the importance of self-care and a worry-free life for longevity.

Slave Narrative of Bill Austin

Bill Austin, an ex-slave from Greenwood, Florida, recounts his life and experiences under slavery. Born near the Oconee River in Georgia, he lost contact with his parents after their sale. He describes his master, Thomas Smith, as a sometimes generous but gambling man, whose fluctuating wealth affected the lives of the enslaved. Austin details his attempts to escape to Macon, ultimately leading to his emancipation when Mrs. Smith offered him freedom. Now in his old age, he manages a small farm with his large family.

Slave Narrative of Samuel Simeon Andrews

Samuel Simeon Andrews, born in 1850 in Macon, Georgia, reflects on his life as a former slave, moving through various plantations before emancipation. He describes his experiences, particularly on the A.J. Lane plantation, where he recalls kind treatment and familial ties among slaves. Andrews shares memories of plantation life, Civil War incidents, and post-emancipation education challenges. Despite a difficult past, he emphasizes community resilience, his active involvement in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and a longevity attributed to a positive outlook on life and health practices.

Slave Narrative of Salena Taswell

Salena Taswell, born in 1844 in Perry, Georgia, reflects on her life as a child on Dr. Jameson’s plantation. She describes a childhood spent working as a servant rather than playing. Although she was treated kindly, her family’s life involved hard work: her mother was a seamstress, and her father a blacksmith. Guests at the plantation enjoyed rich meals, while Salena cleaned and waited on the table. After the Civil War, she experienced little change, continuing to live in her master’s household alongside other freed individuals.

Slave Narrative of Vera Roy Bobo

Vera Roy Bobo, a 68-year-old woman from Holly Grove, Arkansas, reflects on her family’s history. Her mother, Margaret Cobb, was a house girl and seamstress whose family was enslaved by the Cobbs in Georgia. Her father, St. Roy Holmes, a light-skinned C.M.E. preacher, moved to Arkansas in 1885. Vera mentions her husband, William Bobo, whose family was also of mixed heritage and had connections to a wealthy lineage in Mississippi. She notes her parents rarely spoke of their experiences in slavery.

Hitchiti Indians

The Hitchiti tribe, part of the Muskhogean family, was historically located in what is now Chattahoochee County, Georgia, and previously along the Ocmulgee River. Known for their distinct language, they were referred to as leaders among the Lower Creeks. Notable villages included Hitchitoochee and Tuttallosag. Their population fluctuated significantly from the 18th century onwards, with a notable decline. After moving to Alabama in the early 18th century, they eventually relocated to Oklahoma, merging with the Creek Confederacy.

Edwards, Elsie Ammons – Obituary

Mrs. Elsie Harris, aged 49, of Longview, passed away on November 23 in a local hospital. Born on January 3, 1914, in Macon, Georgia, she was a dedicated member of the Kelso Assembly of God Church and worked as a swimming instructor for children with disabilities at the Longview YMCA. She is survived by her husband, Marshall, three daughters, two brothers, four sisters, and nine grandchildren.

Achese: Birthplace of the Creek Confederacy

Artist rendition of the Town of Ochesee

In 1541, Hernando de Soto’s expedition encountered the ancestors of today’s Creek Indians near the Ocmulgee River in central Georgia. They stumbled upon Achese, a well-planned village that contrasted sharply with the Apalachee territories. Although the Spanish chroniclers provided limited descriptions, Achese, whose name means “Children of Corn,” was a significant cultural center with notable temple mounds. Despite its importance, the village did not meet de Soto’s expectations for wealth, as he sought cities like the Aztecs’ Tenochtitlan.

Biography of Hon. Edward Hirsch

Hon. Edward Hirsch, born in Germany in 1836 and immigrating to the U.S. in 1855, became a prominent figure in Oregon’s financial landscape. After settling in New York and then moving through various states, he established himself in Oregon, where he was elected State Treasurer in 1878. His administration saw significant improvements in public finance, including reduced tax rates and enhanced public facilities like the State Asylum and State Prison. Respected for his integrity and financial acumen, Hirsch played a vital role in Oregon’s development and held a strong reputation in the community.