Wilkerson". Also another item: "Violet married to Dennie" showing that
care was taken that marriages were made among the negroes.

The darkies had suppers in their own quarters and had much merrymaking
and laughter.

Illness among the darkies were cared from among themselves but under the
watchful eye of the master and mistress.

The darkies were deeply religious and learned much of the Bible from
devout mistresses who felt it their holy duty to teach these ignorant
people the word of God. An extract from Mrs. Magowan's diary on July 25,
1856: "Old Aunt Becky was baptised on the 20th; she being upwards of 70
years of age. A considerable interest on the subject of religion is
manifest among the negroes, several have joined may they be kept by the
power of God unto Salvation. The redemption of the soul is precious".
This is quoted to show that the Negro was considered as a human being
and treated as such.

Also taken from Mrs. Magowan's diary: "Dove sold to Mr. Van Thompson. O
slavery, thorn art a bitter draught! tho' thousands have tasted of thee,
thou art none the less bitter."

The Underground Railroad did not run through this county. No slaves were
carried away on any such thing. The older people interviewed about this
say they do not believe such a railroad ever existed as it would be a
feat of engineering even in this day and time.

The rosters of the Independent company which Ge. John S. Williams
organized in this county and led to Mexico is in the possession of his