Edgar H. Diggs, a long-time barber in Wilson, was born into a family with deep roots in northern Wayne County, N.C., just across the county line from Stantonsburg (in Wilson County). In September 1934, Diggs entered into a ten-year lease with his uncle, Willie Diggs, for the farm Willie Diggs had inherited from his mother Frances Diggs.
Deed book 226, page 297, Wayne County Register of Deeds Office, Goldsboro, N.C.
Under the terms of the lease, Edgar Diggs was permitted to use all the wood he needed to run the farm and to cut as much timber as needed for maintenance of buildings and fences. He was also permitted the sublet the property provided he gave his uncle notice and paid his $100 yearly rent in advance.