Winnsboro South Carolina

Slave Narrative of Robert Toatley

Robert Toatley, born on May 15, 1855, in South Carolina, reflects on his life from slavery to prosperity. He recalls a happy childhood spent with the white children of his plantation, where he experienced both camaraderie and hardship. Despite facing adversity, including the boll weevil’s impact on his farm, Toatley has maintained ownership of his land and raised a large family. His narrative includes details of the brutality of slavery and the societal changes following the Civil War, illustrating a life marked by resilience and adaptation.

Slave Narrative of Tom Rosboro

Tom Rosboro, a 79-year-old ex-slave from Winnsboro, South Carolina, recounts his life experiences, including his family lineage, the challenges of slavery, and his eventual freedom. His parents belonged to different masters, and he recalls the difficulties they faced, including the necessity of passes for his father to visit. Tom describes his life post-slavery, including his marriage to Mattie Nelson and their children, highlighting the dynamics of their family and Tom’s current living situation with his daughter Estelle.

Slave Narrative of Manda Walker

Manda Walker, an 80-year-old former slave, recounts her early life in Winnsboro, South Carolina, where she lived during and after the Civil War. Born in 1857 to Jeff and Phoebe, she reflects on her childhood, describing the hardships inflicted by patrollers and the struggles her family faced. Manda details her work and life post-emancipation, emphasizing the poverty and challenges faced while raising her nine children with her husband, Jerry. Despite the difficulties, Manda maintains a sense of hope in divine justice and eternal happiness.

Slave Narrative of Ned Walker

Ned Walker, an 83-year-old former slave, recounts his life in Winnsboro, South Carolina, where he now lives with his daughter and son-in-law. Born into slavery on the Clifton place, he recalls the Gaillard family, their plantation, and the care they provided to the enslaved. Walker reflects on his family, the names they received, and the food and lifestyle they had. He expresses his admiration for figures like Abraham Lincoln and shares vivid memories from church services and community events, highlighting the bonds formed by the enslaved.

Slave Narrative of Rosa Starke

Rosa Starke, born in 1854, recounts her life as a former enslaved person in South Carolina. She describes her family’s history, including her grandfather’s bondage to Solicitor Starke and her experiences on the Graham and Melrose plantations. Rosa details the hierarchical structure among slaves, the wealth of her owners, and the devastation caused by the Union army during the Civil War. After emancipation, she married twice, ultimately choosing to live independently with her children, while reflecting on her past and the societal changes she witnessed.

Slave Narrative of Dan Smith

Dan Smith, born January 11, 1862, in Richland County, South Carolina, shared his experiences of slavery and family life during an interview with W. W. Dixon. He grew up on a plantation owned by John Lever, with his mother working as a weaver. Smith recalls his childhood, the challenges his family faced, and the transition to freedom. Now 75, he lives in Winnsboro, continues to work in construction, and expresses a desire for equitable pension treatment, reflecting on the disparity between his life and that of wealthier individuals.

Slave Narrative of Alexander Robertson

Alexander Robertson, an 84-year-old ex-slave, resides with his son on the General Bratton plantation in South Carolina. He actively works in the fields alongside his grandchildren, reflecting on his past as a house boy on a nearby plantation. Born to a slave mother, he discusses his mixed heritage and the challenges faced as a mulatto. Robertson also reminisces about the Civil War’s impact, his first vote in 1876, and his views on notable figures like Abraham Lincoln and Franklin Roosevelt. He maintains a strong sense of community and faith.

Slave Narrative of Bill Williams

Bill Williams, aged 82, shares his experiences as a slave on the Durham plantation in South Carolina. He recounts life under his master, John Durham, and mistress, Margaret, emphasizing the relatively good conditions compared to other plantations. Williams describes household duties, family life, and religious practices, including baptism ceremonies he witnessed, one involving a young slave boy named Ike. Despite the hardships of slavery, he reflects on moments of joy and community among the enslaved people.

Slave Narrative of Aleck Woodward

Aleck Woodward, interviewed by W. W. Dixon at 83 years old, recalls his life as a slave on the Simonton plantation in South Carolina. He describes his family dynamics, living in a log house with seventeen members, and the hard labor they endured. Woodward fondly remembers Christmas and the kindness of his master’s family, despite the struggles of slavery. He recounts his experiences of freedom, marriage, and the challenges faced after emancipation, emphasizing the legacy of his family name, Woodward, as a symbol of resilience.

Slave Narrative of Charlie Robinson

Charlie Robinson, an 87-year-old ex-slave residing near Winnsboro, South Carolina, shared his life experiences during an interview conducted by W.W. Dixon. He recounts his upbringing, mentioning his parents, George and Caline, and their hardships. Robinson reminisces about his childhood during the Civil War, the challenges of labor, and his transition to freedom. He describes the community’s struggles post-emancipation, including interactions with the Ku Klux Klan and aspirations for a better life, including a desire for a pension. His narrative reflects the complexities of former slaves’ lives in the South.