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Buckingham County

General Condition of Affairs, &c., &c.
The general conditions of freedmen in this county is much superior to that of Cumberland, except in what is called the "Burnt Woods" District and small localities elsewhere. True their means are exceedingly limited and money wages not payable till the end of the year, but more attention is paid both to planting and cultivation of crops; and a better feeling exists — in the central portion of the county — between employer and employee. This is largely attributable to the example of several leading land owners who are also Magistrates, and who not only act fairly towards their own employees, but so far as is in their power enforce contracts with others. The area of land under cultivation is, however, much less than formerly, and a larger proportion of this being devoted to grain instead of tobacco, less labor is employed on that cultivated. Although the contracts to labor for share of crop are very stringent — if a Bureau Officer is accessible to make an accounting between the parties — freedmen will be saved from imposition, except as to account of goods furnished on advances. 

Civil Justice
The Court and Prosecuting Officer administer as impartial justice as Juries will allow, and several of the Magistrates are recognized by all as fair men. Minor Officers are not so faithful, and constables, in several instances, have acted so harshly that I have had to notify them to suspend proceedings. 

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2023-12-10 22:40:38