Wilson Advance, 12 September 1889.
In the 1860 census of Kirby’s district, Wilson County: Jesse Ayres, 7, mulatto, is listed in the household of white farmer Lawrence Moors [to whom he likely had been bound as an apprentice.]
On 19 February 1871, Jesse Ayers, son of Sally Ayers, married Elizabeth Taylor, daughter of Lewis and Sally Taylor, in Wilson County. Their marriage is listed in the colored register.
In the 1880 census of Cross Roads township, Wilson County: 28 year-old farmer Jesse Ayers; wife Elizabeth, 28; and children Ida, 8; Harriet, 6; Howard, 5; and Hubbard, 2; all mulatto.
In the 1900 census of Cross Roads township, Wilson County: farmer Jesse Ayers, 53; wife Elizabeth, 54; and children Herbert, 19, Loutory, 15, Addie, 13, Alvester, 12, and Betsey A., 9; all black.
In the 1920 census of Cross Roads township, Wilson County: Jessie Ayers, 59, and wife Pollie, 54, both white.
Jessie Ayers died 11 April 1940 in Taylors township, Wilson County. Per his death certificate, he was 80 years old; white; a widower; a farmer; had been born in Wilson County to unknown parents; and was buried in a family cemetery. Rufus Brewer was informant.
I am a direct descendant of Mr. Ayers. His son, Herbert, was my grandfather’s grandfather.
I live in Wilson NC. I want to know more about my family.
Brad Whitley
Hi, Bradley! I was just in Wilson this past weekend. The Ayers and related families are a fascinating group. Have you seen the other posts about them? Feel free to contact me directly — lisayhenderson at gmail dot com.
Lisa,
I will send you an email.