Union County KY

Will of Nancy Austin

In her last will, Nancy Austin bequeaths her enslaved individuals to her grandchildren, children, and specifies their divisions among them. She instructs for the sale of her house and remaining personal property, with debts to be settled first. Proceeds are to be divided among her children and grandsons. Additionally, she grants freedom to her servant Amanda upon her death, ensuring her support if needed. Executors named include Samuel Casey, Gibson B. Taylor, and William Grundy. The will is dated May 26, 1837.

Slave Narrative of George Morrison

George Morrison, born in Union County, Kentucky, recalls his childhood under the care of Mr. Ray, who refused the title “Master.” He describes a life of play and responsibilities on the farm, including driving his owners to church while enjoying games with other children. Morrison reflects on his family’s experiences during the Civil War, particularly his father’s service and his uncle’s conscription. He prefers living in the North, values independence over marriage, and shares tales of supernatural encounters and fond memories of past festivities.

Slave Narrative of Mrs. Heyburn

In an interview with Mrs. Heyburn, she recounts stories from her grandmother about life during the Civil War in Union County, Kentucky. She recalls the excitement of a young slave boy witnessing Union soldiers, and highlights a contrasting memory of her grandfather’s farm, where freed slaves chose to remain after emancipation. Some slaves were treated well, while others faced brutal punishment. This narrative illustrates the complexities of the master-slave relationship and the varied experiences of African Americans during this tumultuous period.

Biography of Dr. N. C. Berry

Dr. N. C. Berry, born on April 5, 1838, in Union County, Kentucky, is a renowned physician based in West Plains, Missouri. He studied medicine under his father, Dr. J. T. Berry, before completing his education at Jefferson College in Pennsylvania. Dr. Berry served as an army surgeon in the Confederate Army during the Civil War. After the war, he resumed his medical practice in Kentucky before moving to Missouri in 1871. He is active in medical associations and community organizations, holding several leadership positions.

Biography of Hon. Peter G. Stewart

Peter G. Stewart, born on September 6, 1809, in New York, pursued a career in watchmaking and jewelry. He migrated westward in 1838, ultimately reaching Oregon City in 1843 after traversing the desert. An active participant in the region’s governance, he served as a district court judge and later engaged in gold mining. Despite hardships, including losing his claim at Pacific City and multiple business setbacks, Stewart remained resilient. He married twice and lived in Gervais, Oregon, where he earned community respect and continued his watchmaking trade.

Biography of Claude B. Clements

Claude B. Clements, born on January 27, 1871, in Union County, Kentucky, is a prominent figure in the Mid-Continent oil fields of Kansas. His success stems from his diligent work and expertise in the oil industry, where he operates several productive leases. A respected public servant, he is currently the mayor of Peru. Clements comes from a lineage of pioneers; his father, B. J. Clements, and his wife, Effie Floyd, share a commitment to community service and education, with Effie noted for her literary contributions.

Biography of Thomas Jonathan Wilson

Thomas Jonathan Wilson, born in Kentucky in 1845, is the longest-serving educator in San Bernardino County. After brief teaching stints in Texas and a pursuit of medicine, he settled in California in 1867, where he has taught continuously. An advocate for public education, Wilson has also held various leadership roles in fraternal organizations and the local community. Politically active as a Democrat, he has contributed to local press and public speaking. He lives with his wife Isabel and their six children on a productive homestead near the San Bernardino mountains.

Biographical Sketch of J.T. Willett

J.T. Willett, born on May 3, 1856, in Union County, Kentucky, is a notable figure in Wallowa County’s agricultural development. After leaving home at age twenty, he spent time farming in Kansas before relocating to Oregon in 1880. Settling in Wallowa County in 1884, he established a successful homestead and became a respected citizen. Willett married Chatie Pickett in 1879, and they had four children. His influential contributions to the county’s growth have solidified his status among its pioneering builders.

1850 Slave Bill of Sale

In June 1850, Joseph W. Cromwell and his wife, Martha, sold a 29-year-old enslaved woman named Milly and her 18-month-old child, James, to Wm. C. Hamner for $550 in Union County, Kentucky. The bill of sale includes a warranty that Milly is sound and healthy, ensuring the transfer of ownership for life, along with any future offspring. The document is formally signed by the Cromwells and recorded in the local deed book.