Princeton Kentucky

Biography of Hon. Rezin Davidge

Hon. Rezin Davidge was a distinguished early lawyer in Christian County, known for his legal expertise, compelling speaking, and integrity. Born in Maryland around 1770, he moved to Kentucky post-statehood and became the first Commonwealth’s Attorney in Hopkinsville. Though appointed as a Judge of the Court of Appeals during a turbulent political period, his tenure was contentious. Davidge later served on the Circuit bench and spent his final years in Hopkinsville. He was married twice, fathering five sons and three daughters.

Slave Narrative of George Fortman

George Fortman, a former slave born to Indian ancestors, recounts his family’s tragic journey from their homeland in Indiana to slavery in Alabama. Fortman’s narrative highlights the forced removal of Indigenous peoples and their eventual enslavement on plantations, where his great-grandmother and her children lived as chattel. He reflects on the friendships between races on the plantation, his upbringing, and eventual freedom. Fortman, now a professor and janitor in Evansville, Indiana, expresses pride in the opportunities available to future generations.

Slave Narrative of Betty Jones

In an interview conducted by Lauana Creel, Betty Jones, an ex-slave born in Henderson, Kentucky, recounts her life under the ownership of John Alvis. She reflects on her childhood memories, noting the emotional toll of seeing friends sold away. The Alvis family kept their slaves together, and Betty married John R. Jones, another former slave. Now residing in Evansville, she shares recollections of the town’s evolution and her simple beliefs about life and death. Betty longs to return to her birthplace, yet remains resigned to her current circumstances.

The Missing Man

In 1860, a conflict arose between Jess Stevens and Jess Williams over a slave. After Stevens shot one of Williams’ boys, a plot ensued to kill Stevens using the old slave. Although the slave hesitated, he eventually shot and killed Stevens. A traveling salesman later disappeared, with suspicious links to the Williams family. The old slave, after suffering brutality, was found nearly dead by Stevens. The incident led to outrage among the community, resulting in the lynching of Jess Williams.

Slave Narrative of Easter Sudie Campbell

Easter Sudie Campbell, a 72-year-old midwife from Hopkinsville, Kentucky, recounts her life experiences, including her upbringing as the child of slaves. For 40 years, she has served her community, using traditional remedies and natural medicines to care for patients, particularly children. She shares stories of childbirth and superstitions surrounding pregnancy, revealing insights into health practices and community beliefs. She also describes encounters with the supernatural, illustrating her deep connection to heritage and tradition in a post-Civil War Southern context.