Viewing page 25 of 240

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

Complaint made at Hd. Qrs. So. Dist N.C
Wilmington, May 22/66.

Abner Williams "freedman" states that he formerly belonged to a Mr Harper Williams of Dublin County & was living on his plantation at the time that the US forces passed thro that County. (last spring) He states that upon the approach of the US Army, Mr Harper Williams left his plantation & fled into the interior, thus leaving the place entirely in the possession of his former slaves, who were ignorant as to what course they should pursue with regard to the disposition of the farm - Abner applied to Genl Tery for advice in this matter & was told that he had better plant a crop so as to provide for the wants of his family during the ensuing year. This advise Abner took and after procuring a horse for which he paid out of his own pocket planted the crop & worked it the entire season thru. Abner gathered the crop when matured & it amounted to about 43 barrels corn in the ear. Mr Harper Williams returned to his plantation before or about the time the crop harvested & divided it himself giving Abner less than two barrels corn in the ear as his share & returning the balance as his own property also refusing to do any thing else to further or assist him. Abner wishes this matter investigated & justice done him.
 
Abner his X mark Williams 

Sworn to and subscribed before me this 4th day of June 1866

H H Foster
Asst. Supt. R. f. & A. L.

Transcription Notes:
.