Many thanks to Dr. Michael Barnes (no relation to Dr. B.O. Barnes) for sharing this and so many other fantastic documents from his parents’ papers. Stay tuned!
Barnes
The last will and testament of Harriet Barnes Parks.
North Carolina, Wilson County}
I, Harriett Parks, of the aforesaid County and State, being of sound mind, but considering the uncertainty of my earthly existence, do make and declare this my Last Will and testament:
First, my Executor, hereinafter named, shall give my body a decent burial, and pay all funeral expenses, out of the first moneys that may come into his hands belonging to my estate.
Second, Whereas on Feby 2nd 1892, Mr. Silas Lucas executed a Bond to make title to me, for a certain lot of parcel of land in Wilson County Wilson Township, adjoining the lands of John Clark, S.A. Smith, Daniel Vick and others, containing one fourth of an acre, more or less, it being the lot where I now live, and whereas there is a small balance still
due said Lucas, and whereas S.A. Woodard Esq. has promised to pay off and discharge said balance due, and to advance me other money for my maintenance, I hereby direct said Silas Lucas to execute a deed for said lot or parcel of land to my friend John Gaston in trust, first to rent some out and to pay what amount I may owe to said S.A. Woodard, and if said Gaston should borrow any money to pay my funeral expenses, to pay off and discharge said amount, and then to convey said lot or parcel to my children Harvey Gray Barnes and Allie Kate Barnes, and their heirs
Third, I give and bequest to my children Harvey Gray Barnes, Allie Kate Barnes, Addie T. Barnes, Mary E. Barnes and Lillie F. Pridgen all my personal property of every notion and description
Fourth, my will and desire is that my friend John Gaston, be and
he is hereby constituted and appointed Guardian of my minor children Harvey Gray Barnes and Allie Kate Barnes to have and to hold the Custody of this estate until they shall arrive at the full age of twenty-one years and the said guardian shall not be required to give bond.
Fifth, I hereby constitute and appoint my friend John Gaston, my lawful executor to all intents and purposes to execute this my last will and testament of the true intent and meaning of the same, and every part and clause thereof.
In witness whereof, I the said Harriett Parks, do hereby set my hand and seal This the [blank] day of October 1896. /s/ Harriet Parks
Signed sealed published and declared by the said Harriet Parks, to be her last will and testament in the presence of us, who at her request, and in her presence do subscribe our names as witnesses thereto Witnesses {Ida R. Clark Braswell R. Winstead
——
- Harriet Barnes Parks
In the 1880 census of Wilson township, Wilson County: widow Adeline Gay, 26, works in nursing; sister Harriet Barnes, 24, washes and irons; nieces Lilly, 4, and Mary, 2; and mother Jennie O’Neal, 50.
- Lillie Barnes Pridgen
In the 1880 census of Wilson township, Wilson County: widow Adeline Gay, 26, works in nursing; sister Harriet Barnes, 24, washes and irons; nieces Lilly, 4, and Mary, 2; and mother Jennie O’Neal, 50. [This household was beset with tragedy the previous year when Adeline Gay’s husband Spencer Gay and two of Harriet Barnes’ children, 1 year-old Roscoe Barnes and an unnamed infant, died.]
On 7 June 1892, John Pridgen, 21, of Wilson, son of William and Sylva Pridgen, married Lillie Barnes, 16, of Wilson, daughter of Harriet Barnes, at Mr. and Mrs. Ransom’s in Wilson. C.H. Bynum applied for the license, and Presbyterian minister L.J. Melton performed the ceremony in the presence of Maggie Ransom, Minnie E. Smith, and Sarah L. Bowers.
In the 1900 census of Baltimore, Baltimore County, Maryland: John C. Pridgeon, 27; wife Lillie G., 24, barber; and son Eugene, 6.
On 28 May 1913, Clarence E. Pridgeon, 22, of Cleveland, Ohio, born in Washington, D.C., to John Pridgeon and Lillie Barnes, employed as a porter, married Ruth E. Wooten, 18, of Cleveland, born in Knoxville, Tennessee, to William Wooten and Lizzie Smith, in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio.
- Mary E. Barnes
In the 1880 census of Wilson township, Wilson County: widow Adeline Gay, 26, works in nursing; sister Harriet Barnes, 24, washes and irons; nieces Lilly, 4, and Mary, 2; and mother Jennie O’Neal, 50.
- Addie T. Barnes
- Allie Kate Barnes
In the 1920 census of Richmond, Virginia: Allie Kate Barnes, 30, maid, born in N.C., lodger in household of Cary W. Flournoy, 611 North First Street.
On 11 November 1920, Allie Katie Barnes, 25, born in Wilson, N.C., divorced, married Wilburt West, 31, born in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, to Sam and Frances C. West, single, in Richmond, Virginia.
On 13 January 1930, Alice West 35, of Richmond, born in Wilson, N.C., was granted a divorce from Wilbert West, 41, of Richmond, born in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, on grounds of desertion.
- Harvey Gray Barnes
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: teamster Ed Pool, 54; wife Adeline, 44; and nephew Harvey Barnes, 15. [This, despite Harriet Parks having designated John Gaston as her minor children’s guardian.]
The descendants of Martha and Charity.
My brief initial search for evidence of the lives of the enslaved people auctioned to benefit the Bass siblings was fruitless. Yesterday, however, a conversation spurred me to take a second look, and I am certain I found Martha and her daughter Charity, who had been sold to S.M. Thomas for $2000 and had surprising links to people who have appeared in Black Wide-Awake repeatedly. … Maybe.
I did not know what surname Martha had taken at Emancipation, so searching only for her in the 1870 census yielded nothing useful. However, I knew Charity must have been a very young child when sold with her mother — after about age seven, children were sold solo — so I broadened my search to any Martha with a daughter named Charity in Wilson County in 1870. And I found this entry in Wilson township:
Thirty year-old Rillie Robbins, wife Martha, 29, and 10 year-old daughter Charity. This Charity would have been about three years old when sold in 1863, which tracks.
I backed up a bit to search for the couple’s marriage and found that, on 10 August 1866, Rila Robbins and Martha Barnes had registered their seven-year cohabitation with a Wilson County justice of the peace. This entry tells us Martha had used Barnes as a surname during slavery, and the couple were together, but likely living separately, when Martha and their daughter were sold.
In the 1880 census of Wilson township, Wilson County: Riley Robins, 48, farmer; wife Martha, 38; daughter [in fact, granddaughter] Josephine R., 1; and Chaney Lipscomb, 16, a servant. Charity had left home and is found in an entry in the Town of Wilson: laborer James Barnes, 22; his wife Sarah, 26; their son Joseph, 4; and their cousins Charity Robins, 18, and Malvena Taylor, 19.
The facts are less clear from this point. I’ll present what I’ve found, person by person. You’ll note perplexing inconsistencies in the identification of the father(s) of Charity Robbins’ children.
First Generation
- Martha Barnes Robbins
I have found nothing about Martha after 1880. She was not the Martha A. Robbins whose estate entered probate in 1883, but, considering her husband’s remarriage that year, likely died around the same time.
- Riley Robbins
On 24 January 1866, Riley Robins entered into a sharecropping agreement with D.W. Weaver. (More about this later.)
On 12 April 1883, Riley Robins and Cathron Barnes were married in Johnston County, North Carolina.
In the 1908 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Riley h Lodge cor Jones
In the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Riley Robbins, 79; wife Catharine, 65; Daniel Williams, 46, house carpenter; wife Charity, 47, factory laborer; and Bennett, 13, factory laborer, Wilbur, 10, and Charity, 16, factory laborer.
On 5 March 1911, Riley Robbins, 79, of Pine Level, married Almetrice Freeman, 45, of Smithfield, in Smithfield township, Johnston County. [Is this the same Riley Robbins?]
In the 1916 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Riley h 420 S Lodge
On 31 July 1919, Riley Robbins, 87, of Smithfield, married Liza Lancaster, 30, of Smithfield, in Smithfield township, Johnston County. [Is this the same Riley Robbins?]
Braswell R. Winstead died 22 August 1926 in Wilson. Per his death certificate, he was 60 years old; was born in Wilson to Riley Robins and Malissa Winstead; was married to Ada E. Winstead; lived at 415 East Green Street worked as a barber; and was buried in Masonic Cemetery.
Second Generation
- Charity Robbins
At Spring Term 1884 of Wilson County Superior Court, James D. Barnes, who was white, and Charity Robbins, “colored,” were charged with fornication and adultery. Their indictment listed C.C. Peacock, midwife Carolina Vick, and William Hinnant as witnesses. The couple were arrested later that year, jailed, and convicted. Barnes was ordered to pay court costs and post a $500 bond to guarantee his appearance at his sentencing hearing and to demonstrate that he had “kept separate” from Robbins and “has not been seen in her company day or night.” Robbins, on the other hand, was ordered to leave the county within 30 days and “if found in the Co. after that time to be arrested … and imprisoned in county jail” until next court term. Note that sexual relationships, whether coerced or (occasionally) consensual, between white men and Black women generally merited little law enforcement attention. Only when a white man publicly acknowledged his African-American partner, perhaps by living openly with her, did the white community’s blood start boiling and demanding redress. James D. Barnes was the father of two of Charity Robbins’ children — James D., born about 1882 and named after himself (and his grandfather, James Dew Barnes), and John T., born about 1883 and named after his father John Barnes. Barnes may also have been the father of Charity’s first child, Josephine Roxanna, born about 1879. [James D. Barnes appears in the 1880 census of Wilson as a 20 year-old in the household of his parents John and Elizah Barnes. He married Elmira Smith in 1885. They reared their children, including a second son named James D., in Wilson County.]
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Charity Robbins, 40, and children Jimmie, 20, teamster, John, 18, farm laborer, Martha, 11, Charity, 7, Mack, 5, and Wilbert, 1.
On 26 December 1906, D.W. Williams, 41, married Charity Robbins, 42, in Wilson. Rev. J.H. Scott performed the ceremony in the presence of James F. Scott, Washington N. [illegible], and Willie B. Daniels.
In late 1909, Charity Robbins sued Dr. Frank S. Hargrave, executor of the estate of Miley Barnes for $125 — $100 for money and provisions furnished to Barnes and $25 for nursing her during her illness. (Miley Barnes was Robbins’ aunt, a sister of Riley Robbins.) After considering the testimony of both parties and witnesses Annie Gunn, A.J.C. Moore, Thomas Henderson, Herbert Pittman, and Riley Robbins, a justice of the peace found in Charity Robbins’ favor, awarding $100, plus $4 costs. Hargrave appealed. Gunn, Moore, Henderson, and Pittman testified for Robbins; Sallie Bynum, Braswell Winstead [Robbins’ half-brother], G[illegible] Tucker, Lou Williams, and Turner Mitchell, for Hargrave. He again lost, but damages were reduced to $75 plus costs.
In the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Riley Robbins, 79; wife Catharine, 65; Daniel Williams, 46, house carpenter; wife Charity, 47, factory laborer; and Bennett, 13, factory laborer, Wilbur, 10, and Charity, 16, factory laborer.
In the 1912 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Cherry (c) fact hd h 418 S Lodge
In the 1916 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Charity (c) laundress 418 S Lodge
In June 1917, Charity Robbins Williams was granted a divorce from D.W. Williams in Wilson County on grounds of fornication and adultery.
In the 1920 census of Wilson, Wilson County: at 418 Lodge Street, Charity Robins, 59, widow, saleslady at grocery store.
In the 1922 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Charity grocer 600 S Lodge h 412 E Walnut
Charity Robbins executed her last will and testament on 2 July 1924. She was quite well-off, and among her bequests were: (1) to son John T. Robbins, her house and lot in “Wynona, a southwestern suburb of the City of Wilson,” adjacent to Chloe Woodard, J.D. High, and others; also a house and lot on East Hines Street adjacent to Mary Wilkins and others and (2) her house on the corner of Lodge and Hines Streets, an adjacent lot, and all her personal property were to be sold for cash and, with all other cash, the proceeds were to be divided equally among her children Josephine Roxanna Simms, wife of Frank Simms, of Selma, N.C.; J.D. Robbins and John T. Robbins of Wilson; Martha Grear of Birmingham, Alabama; Charity Jones, wife of Levi Jones, Wilson; and Ben F. and Wilbert Robbins of Wilson.
Charity Robins died 5 August 1924 in Wilson. Per her death certificate, she was born 13 April 1864 in Wilson to Riley Robins and Martha Robins; was the widow of Daniel Williams; and was a storekeeper. Tempsie Jones was informant. [She was most likely buried in Vick Cemetery.]
Greensboro Daily News, 17 August 1924.
Third Generation
- Josephine Roxanna Robbins
On 8 January 1897, Frank Sims, 22, of Selma, N.C., married Roxanna Robbins, 20, at Charity Robbins’ residence in Wilson. Free Will Baptist minister Crockett Best performed the ceremony in the presence of Henry Barnes, D.A. Smith, and David Depree.
In the 1900 census of Selma, Johnston County, N.C.: Frank Simms, 28, barber, and wife Roxanna, 21.
In the 1920 census of Selma, Johnston County: Frank Sims, 52, barber, and wife Roxana, 43.
In the 1930 census of Selma, Johnston County: Frank Sims, 58, farmer, and wife Roxana, 52.
In the 1950 census of Selma, Johnston County: Frank Sims, 74, plowing; wife Roxanna, 73; and niece-in-law Christina Robbings, 60.
Frank Simms died 3 June 1957 in Wilson. Per his death certificate, he was 83 years old; was the son of Turner Simms and Patsy Smith; was married to Roxanna Simms; lived at 206 Sellers Street, Selma; and was a barber.
Roxana Simms died 2 January 1959 in Selma, Johnston County. Per her death certificate, she was born 17 April 1880 to Riley Robbins and Charity [maiden name unknown]; and was the widow of Frank Simms. Zilphia Surett was informant. [Riley Robbins was Roxanna Simms’ grandfather, but likely a surrogate father.]
- James D. Robbins
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Charity Robbins, 40, and children Jimmie, 20, teamster, John, 18, farm laborer, Martha, 11, Charity, 7, Mack, 5, and Wilbert, 1.
In the 1912 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins James D (c) lab h 418 S Lodge
On 7 September 1913, James D. Robbins, 31, married Daisy Bynum, 34, in Wilson. Missionary Baptist minister Fred M. Davis performed the ceremony. [Daisy Robbins died 17 May 1914 in Wilson. Per her death certificate, she was 38 years old; was born in Newberry, South Carolina, to Morton Pitt and Harrett Jones; was married; and was buried in Wilson [likely, Oakdale or Vick Cemetery.] Washington Pitt was informant.]
On 4 October 1914, Jimmie D. Robbins, 33, married Martha Bunch, 26, in Wilson. A.M.E. Zion minister J.S. Jackson performed the ceremony in the presence of Albert Mitchell, Ed Mooring, and G.G. Fergerson. [Martha Robbins died 12 October 1918 in Wilson. Per her death certificate, she was born in 1887 in Wilson County to Ned Bunch and Malissa Simms; was married to Jas. D. Robbins; and was buried in Wilson [probably Vick Cemetery.]]
In the 1916 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins James D (c) lab 430 Bank
In 1918, Jimmie D. Robbins registered for the World War I draft in Wilson County. Per his registration card, he was born 11 January 1882; lived at 430 Banks; was a grocer man at 600 South Lodge; and his nearest relative was wife Matha Robbins. He was described as having brown eyes and sandy hair.
On 7 May 1919, James D. Robbins, 32, son of Charity Robbins, married Louise Barnes, 22, in Wilson. Missionary Baptist minister A.L.E. Weeks performed the ceremony in the presence of Nannie Barber, Bettie Hall, and James Barber. [Louise Robbins died 20 May 1924 in Wilson. Per her death certificate, she was 28 years old; was born in Darlington, S.C. to Benjamin and Jennette Davis; was married to James Robbins; and was buried in Wilson, Julia Archie was informant.]
On 17 June 1924, Jimmie D. Robins, 43, son of Jim Robins [actually, Barnes] and Charity Robins, married Lillie Thompson, 20, daughter of Tillie Thompson and Clem Thompson, in Smithfield, Johnston County, N.C.
In the 1928 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins James D (c; Lillie) gro 600 S Lodge h 416 S Lodge
In the 1930 census of Wilson, Wilson County: at 418 South Lodge, grocery store merchant James D. Robins, 50; wife Lillie, 25; sons John, 6, James, 4, and William, 10 months; and servant Roscoe Short, 25.
In the 1930 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Jas D (c; Lillie) gro 418 S Lodge h 416 S Lodge
In the 1940 census of Wilson, Wilson County: at 416 Lodge, farm laborer Jimmie Robins, 57; wife Lillie, 37; and sons John, 15, Jim, 12, Rufus, 8, and Thomas, 5.
James D. Robbins died 23 February 1946 in Wilson. Per his death certificate, he was born 11 January 1887 in Wilson to James D. Robbins [actually, James D. Barnes] and Charity Robbins; was married to Lillie Robbins; worked in farming and was buried in Rountree Cemetery.
- John T. Robbins
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Charity Robbins, 40, and children Jimmie, 20, teamster, John, 18, farm laborer, Martha, 11, Charity, 7, Mack, 5, and Wilbert, 1.
In the 1916 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins John blksmith h 422 E Hines
John Robbins registered for the World War I draft in 1918. Per his registration card, he was born 10 January 1883; lived at 418 Lodge Street, Wilson; worked as a blacksmith for Boykin & Horne, Goldsboro Street; and his nearest relative was mother Charity Robbins. He was described as having grey eyes and dark hair.
In the 1922 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins John horseshoer J Y Buchanan h 418 S Lodge
In the 1928 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Jno h 416 S Lodge
On 3 March 1928, John Robins executed his last will and testament. It included these bequests — to nephew John Robins, a four-room house and lot on Hines Street; to nephew Jim Robins, a three-room house and lot on Mercer Street; to nephew Roy Robins, an undivided half-interest in a house and lot at the corner of South Lodge and Hines Streets. Glenn S. McBrayer, Tillet Stokes, and Lillie Robbins signed as witnesses.
John Robbins died 25 March 1928 in Wilson. Per his death certificate, he was 48 years old; was born in Wilson to James D. Barnes and Charity Robbins; lived at 416 Lodge; and worked as a blacksmith. James D. Robbins was informant.
- Martha Mary Robbins
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Charity Robbins, 40, and children Jimmie, 20, teamster, John, 18, farm laborer, Martha, 11, Charity, 7, Mack, 5, and Wilbert, 1.
In the 1912 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Martha (c) student h 418 S Lodge
On 14 January 1916, Edward Grier, 37, of Lafayette, Louisiana, son of Robert F. and Millie Bernard Grier, married Martha Mary Robbins, 25, of Wilson, daughter of Charity Robbins, in Wilson. Episcopal minister Robert N. Perry performed the ceremony in the presence of B.R. Winstead, Levi Jones, and M. Ada Perry.
In 1918, Edward Grier registered for the World War I draft in Birmingham, Jefferson County, Alabama. Per his registration card, he was born 16 February 1877; was a self-employed merchant; lived at 609 4th Avenue; and his nearest relative was wife Martha Grier.
In the 1920 census of Birmingham, Jefferson County, Alabama: Edward Greyer, 41, grocery store retail merchant; wife Martha, 27, school teacher; and boarder Mollie Robinson, 14.
In the 1930 census of Birmingham, Jefferson County, Alabama: Edward Grier, 45, school building janitor; wife Martha, 37, high school teacher; daughter Hattie M., 8; and boarder Rufus Wesley, 50.
Martha Robbins Grier died 3 February 1936 in Birmingham, Jefferson County, Alabama. Per a death index, she was 45 years old, her parents were Riley Robbins and Charity Barnes, and she was married to Edward Grier. [Riley Robbins was Martha Grier’s grandfather, but likely a surrogate father.]
Hattie M. Irving died 27 August 1982 in Gary, Hammond County, Indiana. Per her death certificate, she was born 6 February 1922 in Alabama to Martha Robbins and Edward Grier; was a widow; and was a resident of Gary. Daughter Marguerite Jones was informant.
- Charity Tempsie Robbins
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Charity Robbins, 40, and children Jimmie, 20, teamster, John, 18, farm laborer, Martha, 11, Charity, 7, Mack, 5, and Wilbert, 1.
In the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Riley Robbins, 79; wife Catharine, 65; Daniel Williams, 46, house carpenter; wife Charity, 47, factory laborer; and Bennett, 13, factory laborer, Wilbur, 10, and Charity, 16, factory laborer.
In the 1912 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Timcy (c) tchr h 418 S Lodge
On 30 October 1912, Levi Jones, 30, of Wilson, married Tempsey Robbins, 19, in Wilson.
In the 1920 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Levi Jones, 41, barber; wife Tempsie, 25; and brother-in-law Wilbert Robbins, 20, grocery store salesman.
In the 1930 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Jones Levi H (c; Tempsy) barber Walter S Hines h 114 Pender
In the 1940 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Levi Jones, 64, barber, and wife Tempsie, 45, teacher at Sallie Barbour School.
In the 1950 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Levi Jones, 72, barber, and wife Tempsie, 50, teacher at elementary school.
Tempsie Jones died 11 May 1951 in Wilson. Per her death certificate, she was born June 1900 in Wilson to Riley Robbins and Charity Williams; was married; lived at 114 Pender Street; worked as a grammar school teacher; and was buried in Rest Haven Cemetery. [Riley Robbins was Tempsie Jones’ grandfather, but likely a surrogate father.]
- Benjamin F. Robbins
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Charity Robbins, 40, and children Jimmie, 20, teamster, John, 18, farm laborer, Martha, 11, Charity, 7, Mack, 5, and Wilbert, 1.
In the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Riley Robbins, 79; wife Catharine, 65; Daniel Williams, 46, house carpenter; wife Charity, 47, factory laborer; and Bennett, 13, factory laborer, Wilbur, 10, and Charity, 16, factory laborer.
In the 1912 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Benj (c) lab h 418 S Lodge
In the 1916 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Benj (c) barber Levi Jones
Ben Robbins registered for the World War I draft in 1918. Per his registration card, he was born 30 March 1897; lived at 660 Viola Street, Wilson; worked for Levi Jones; and his nearest relative was mother Charity Robbins.
In the 1922 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Benjamin (c) barber The Mayflower h 313 Pender
In the 1928 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Benj (c; Vashti) barber Reid Barber Shop r 313 Pender
In 1942, Ben Robbins registered for the World War II draft in Wilson County. Per his registration card, he was born 30 March 1897 in Wilson; lived at 116 Pender Street, Wilson; his contact was Tempsie Jones, 114 Pender Street; and he worked at William Hines Barber Shop, 130 South Goldsboro Street.
In the 1950 census of Elm City, Toisnot township, Wilson County: barber Ben Robbins, 52; wife Cora J., 46, cook; and niece Deloris Jones, 11.
Benjamin Robbins died 8 June 1956 in Elm City, Toisnot township, Wilson County. Per his death certificate, he was born 24 May 1901 in Wilson to John Robbins [??] and Charity Williams; was married to Cora Robbins; worked as a barber; and was buried in Mount Olive Cemetery, Mount Olive, N.C.
- Wilbert Robbins
Per delayed birth certificate, Wilbert Robbins was born in 1899 to Calvin Robbins and Charity Robbins in Wilson.
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Charity Robbins, 40, and children Jimmie, 20, teamster, John, 18, farm laborer, Martha, 11, Charity, 7, Mack, 5, and Wilbert, 1.
In the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Riley Robbins, 79; wife Catharine, 65; Daniel Williams, 46, house carpenter; wife Charity, 47, factory laborer; and Bennett, 13, factory laborer, Wilbur, 10, and Charity, 16, factory laborer.
Wilbert Robbins registered for the World War I draft in Wilson. Per his registration card, he was born 21 September 1899; lived at 418 South Lodge Street, Wilson; worked as a tobacco hand for Imperial Tobacco Company; and his nearest relative was mother Charity Robbins.
In the 1920 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Levi Jones, 41, barber; wife Tempsie, 25; and brother-in-law Wilbert Robbins, 20, grocery store salesman.
In the 1922 Hill’s Wilson, N.C., city directory: Robbins Wilbert (c) lab h 508 Bank
On 27 February 1922, Wilbert Robbins, 22, son of John Robbins [??] and Charity Robbins, married Clara Adams, 20, daughter of Henry and Nicy Adams, in Wilson. Rev. William Baker performed the ceremony.
In the 1930 census of Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio: at 274 Talmadge Street, Wilbur Robbins, 29, taxi driver, and wife Clara, 26, cigar store maid.
In the 1940 census of Atlantic City, Atlantic County, New Jersey: at 745 Baltic Avenue, Wilbert Robbins, 40, roadwork laborer, and wife Clara, 38, hotel maid.
In 1942, Wilbert Robbins registered for the World War II draft in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Per his registration card, he was born 21 September 1899 in Wilson; lived at 912 Keener Avenue, Atlantic City; his contact was Tempsie Jones, 114 Pender Street, Wilson; and he worked at Chelsea Hotel, Morris and Boardwalk, Atlantic City.
In the 1950 Atlantic City, N.J., city directory: Robbins Wilbert (Clara) head waiter Hotel Strand h 2014 McKinley av
Press of Atlantic City, 22 September 1976.
Remembering my schoolmate Gregory Robbins (1962-2007), who was the great-grandson of Charity Robbins. Rest in peace.
The trouble started at a corn shucking.
Inquisition over body of Tom Barnes
North Carolina, Wilson County}
The examination of Hilliard Hill, Frank Lipscomb, Bill Barnes and Geo. Barnes taken before the under-signed, Coroner of said county, this the 23rd day of Nov., 1910, in the Grand Jury room, after having viewed the body, upon the body of Tom Barnes, to-wit:
Hilliard Hill, being duly sworn, says: The trouble started at a corn shucking at Jno. Webbs. All had been drinking pretty heavy. I was about drunk. I was talking to Mr. Geo. Barnes and Jim Donnelly was standing around. Tom Barnes walked up and said “What in the hell are you all talking about?” Some one pushed him off and told him to go on. In a few minutes we heard a fuss about forty yards away like some one fussing about to fight. We went to where the fuss was and found Tom Barnes lying down and Jim Donnelly standing over him trying to stamp him, but we stopped him. Tom and Jim went on off, and Tom was cursing. We went back towards house and pretty soon heard pistol fire, and we went where they were and Jim said “Dam it. I had to kill him” or “Dam it, I am about to kill him.” Jim went back towards Mr. Webb’s house. He Tom died in a few moments after he was shot. Tom and Jim were at the corn shucking when I got there. I don’t know whether they had been fussing previously or not. After Tom was shout I saw a pistol in Jim’s hand. Did not see a knife nor pistol before shooting. Jim and Tom were both drinking. Nov. 23rd, 1910 /s/ Hilliard Hill
Frank Lipscomb, being duly sworn says: Tom Barnes and Jim Donnelly got into a dispute about “holloaing” at the corn shucking. Pretty soon we saw some one fighting. We went down there and Tom was down on his face and Jim was trying to get to him again. Jim had a pistol in his hand. I tried to get it away from him, but didn’t get it. I, Bill, Tom Barnes and Hilliard Hill went towards road and Jim was walking along by the side of Tom with pistol by the side of his (Tom’s) head. Jim was cursing Tom. When we got to the road Jim said to Tom “I am a great a mind to kill you any how.” Tom said “If you kill me you will have to do it.” Then Jim said “Don’t you say much to me, if you do I will kill you any how.” Then he stuck the pistol to the side of his Tom Barnes head and shot him. Tom was standing in the road before he was shot with his hands to his side, was not trying to him or cut him. Didn’t see a knife nor pistol in Tom’s hand. Jim Donnelly killed Tom Barnes — I saw him. After Tom fell I started towards Mr. Webb’s and Jim said to me “Don’t you go another but further that way” (and he drew him pistol on me) “if you do I will kill you.” Nov. 23rd, 1910 Frank (X) Lipscomb
Bill Barnes, being duly sworn, says: Tom Barnes is my son. I was on Mr. Webbs portch giving out the “holloa.” Saw two men run down towards stable, and I ran out that way too. Just as I ran out the side gate heard a pistol fire back of stables. When I got down there Tom was down and Jim was trying to stamp him, but didn’t do it — Hilliard Hill pulled him off. Jim had a pistol in his hand and told me not to come on him, waving his pistol towards me. Tom was not shot then. I, Hilliard, Frank, Tom, and Jim started towards road, but I didn’t go to the road. I was about 100 yds. away and heard a pistol shot and saw the light. I went to Tom and he died in about ten minutes. I saw Him going towards Mr. Webbs with his pistol in his hand, and wouldn’t let Hilliard Hill go up to him. Never heard of any fuss between them before. All were pretty full. Nov. 23rd, 1910 /s/ Bill Barnes
Geo. B. Barnes, being duly sworn says: When the “holloaing” was going on Jim Donnelly came to me on the porch and said “I have got to kill Tom to-night.” I tried to get him not to do it, but he said “I am bound to do it.” Didn’t say why he was going to kill him. Pretty soon I heard a pistol fire. For about fifteen minutes heard a second shot and saw light. Nov. 23rd, 1910 /s/ George Barnes
Verdict
We the undersigned Coroner’s jury, find that the deceased, Tom Barnes, came to his death from a pistol wound, said pistol being in the hand of Jim Donnelly, and that the act was premeditated and willful. /s/ J.D. Williams, R.B. Evans, [illegible], W.L. Lucas, J.F. Batts, D.T. Turner, Jurors
Henry B. Best, M.D., Coroner of Wilson Co., Nov. 23rd, 1910.
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- Hilliard Hill
In the 1880 census of Lower Town Creek township, Edgecombe County, N.C.: farmer Sol Hill, 28; wife Hannah, 24; and sons Hilliard, 6, and William, 2.
On 13 December 1892, Hilliard Hill, 21, of Wilson, son of Solomon Hill and Hannah Hill, married Ada Howell, 16, of Wilson, daughter of Caroline Hall, at the bride’s home in Wilson township. H.S. Edwards applied for the license, and the ceremony took place in the presence of M.L. Phillips, Charlie Neal, and Bettie Sanders.
In the 1900 census of Wilson township, Wilson County: teamster Hilliard Hill, 24; wife Ada, 18; and daughter Hanah, 1.
In the 1910 census of Wilson township, Wilson County: planing mill laborer Hilliard Hill, 35; wife Ada, 29; and children Hannah, 11, John, 7, Mildred, 3, and Edwin, 1.
- Frank Lipscomb
In the 1870 census of Taylors township, Wilson County: carpenter Stephen Lipscomb, 49; wife Mariah, 29; and children Anna, 13, Tilitha, 12, Betha, 12, Frank, 10, Archibald, 8, Penny, 6, and Daniel, 1 month.
In the 1900 census of Wilson township, Wilson County: farmer Frank Lipscomb, 42; wife Roda, 43; and children John, 18, Lizza, 17, Jona, 14, Mariah, 9, and Sarah, 5.
In the 1910 census of Wilson township, Wilson County: farm laborer Frank Lipscomb, 53; wife Rhoda, 54, laundress; daughter Maria, 20; and grandsons James, 3, and Willie Lipscomb, 3 months, and Rosavell Barnes, 7.
On 10 May 1913, Frank Lipscomb, 55, married Sue Cooper, 28, in Wilson township, Wilson County.
Frank Lipscomb died 5 October 1941 at Mercy Hospital, Wilson. Per his death certificate, he was 80 years old; resided at Wilson County Home; was a widower; was a farmer; and was born in Wilson County to Stephen and Mariah Lipscomb. Johnnie Coley was informant.
- Will Barnes
- Tom Barnes
- George B. Barnes
- Jim Donnelly
- John Webb
Coroner’s Inquests (1910), Miscellaneous Records, Wilson County Records, North Carolina State Archives.
The obituary of Samuel Barnes.
Wilson Daily Times, 14 November 1933.
On 9 October 1895, Saml. Barnes, 26, married Ida Hinton, 22, at Ida Hinton’s in Wilson. L.B. Williams, A.M.E. minister, performed the service in the presence of Nannie Brinkley, Braswell R. Winstead and Alex Hinton.
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: drayman Sam Barnes, 26, wife Idda, 25, a washerwoman, and daughter Tinnie, 2.
In the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: widow Francis Barnes, 63; son Sam, 40, oil wagon driver; daughter-in-law Ida, 38, laundress; granddaughter Liu[intelligible], 11; and daughters Annie, 23, housemaid, and Nannie, 21, cook.
In the 1920 census of Wilson, Wilson County: at 615 Viola Street, public drayman Samuel Barnes, 50; sister Fannie, 27, a public cook; wife Ida, 45; and daughter Lurean, 21, public school teacher.
Nunnie Barnes died on 26 August 1921 in Wilson, leaving a sizable estate. Her siblings Sarah Joyner, Annie Alexander, and Sam Barnes were her heirs, and her estate was estimated as a one-quarter interest in a house and lot at 604 Viola Street (worth about $500) and other property totaling about $2400.
In the 1930 census of Wilson, Wilson County: at 604 Viola, drayman Sam Barnes, 56, wife Ida, 52, and daughter Lorine, 29, a school teacher.
Wilson Daily Times, 15 November 1933.
Charles Barnes, who died in service to his country.
Wilson Daily Times, 31 July 1919.
Charles Barnes was the son of Wesley and Ella Mercer Barnes. In the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: on the N.&S. Railroad, drayman West Barnes, 22, wife Ella, 47, laundress, and children Sylvester, 17, drayman, Viola, 15, cook, and Charlie, 13, laborer at wholesale store, plus son-in-law James Watson, 23, drayman, wife Lucy, 22, cook, and children West, 4, and Lucy, 3 months. Charlie Barnes died of tuberculosis at an Army hospital in Asheville.
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- Rev. B.P. Coward — Bryant P. Coward.
- Arthur N. Darden
- Elton Thomas
- Arthur Moore — in the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: farm laborer John Moore, 36; wife Mattie, 36, dressmaker; and sons Arthur, 14, William B., 7, Zack, 6, and James, 5.
- Brodie Reed — Brodie Reid.
- Charlie Will Farmer
- Moses Parker
- Connie Rountree
- George Batts
- Cordie Tillery — Cordy Tillery registered for the World War I draft in Wilson in 1917. Per his registration card, he was born 9 August 1889 in Manchester, Virginia; lived on Spring Street, Wilson; and was a convict (“misdemeanants”) with County of Wilson. Per his service card, he served two years honorably.
- Joseph Faulkland — in the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: widow Rachel Falkland, 44, and sons Jessie, 18, wagon factory laborer, Freddie, 18, farm laborer, John, 16, brickyard laborer, and Joseph, 13, farm laborer.
- David McPhail
- Burley Brooks
The last will and testament of Sally Barnes.
Sally Barnes drafted her simple will on 22 April 1909, leaving all her property to her husband Ed Barnes and nieces Lizzie and Bruce Adams. Samuel H. Vick and Julia Burnett signed the document as witnesses. Barnes died months later, and Vick was appointed administrator of her small estate on 8 January 1910.
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On 3 June 1897, Ed Barnes, 22, married Sallie Johnson, 21, at N.A. Adams’ in Wilson County. Missionary Baptist minister Crockett Bess performed the ceremony in the presence of Adams, Alfonzo Graves, and J.W. McKay.
In the 1900 census of Wilson, Wilson County: farm laborer Edwin Barnes, 25, and wife Sallie, 24. Next door: sawmill fireman Nathan Adams, 30; wife Bruce, 26; and daughters Lizza, 6, and Sissie, 4. [It appears in fact that Nathan Adams’ wife was Lizzie, and their daughter was Bruce.]
Bruce Adams died 25 April 1914 in Wilson. Per her death certificate, she was born 27 June 1894 in Wilson County to Nathan Adams and Lizzie Adams; worked as a cook; and was buried in Wilson [likely Vick Cemetery.] Lizzie Adams was informant.
Will of Sally Barnes (1910), Wilson, North Carolina, Wills 1663-1978, http://www.familysearch.org.
The obituary of George H. Barnes of Baltimore, Maryland.
Baltimore Sun, 26 February 1972.
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In the 1928 Baltimore, Maryland, city directory: Barnes Geo H hlpr r1016 Park av
In the 1930 census of Baltimore, Baltimore County, Maryland: George H. Barnes, 21, stevedore on wharf, and wife Cecilia M., 24, restaurant maid.
In 1940, George H. Barnes registered for the World War II draft in Baltimore County, Maryland. Per his registration card, he was born 16 September 1910 in Wilson; lived at 901 Park Avenue, Baltimore; his contact was wife Catherine Barnes; and he worked for Gas & Electric Company.
Two sets of twins in the same year.
Wilson Advance, 21 December 1883.
I have not identified either of Wade and Julia Artis Thompson Barnes‘ sets of twins.
Tragedy at Wright Barnes’ house.
Wilson Daily Times, 21 October 1913.
News and Observer (Raleigh, N.C.), 18 December 1913.
Jane Barnes was quickly released, but Luther Woodard’s trial was set for early February 1914. I have not found record of the verdict. Speculation about their relationship notwithstanding, he and Jane were married on February 23, which suggests he was acquitted.
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- Will McCullom — William McCullers died 14 October 1913 in Wilson. Per his death certificate, he was born 14 October 1876 in Wilson Mills, North Carolina, to Rufus and Gracey McCullers; worked as a sawyer in a saw mill; and was married. Cause of death: “Shot by a party; dying instantly.”
- Jane Barnes — in the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Wright Barnes, 61; wife Jane, 58; children Mary A., 17, George, 15, and Jane Jr., 14; and granddaughter Fannie, 13. On 23 February 1914, Janie Barnes, 18, of Wilson, married Luther Woodard, 21, of Wilson, in Wilson. A.M.E. Zion minister Wyatt Studeway performed the ceremony in the presence of Sattena Barnes, Mary Gaston, and Fannie Foster.
- Luther Woodard — in the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Ruffin Woodard, 45; wife Sarah, 43; and son Luther, 18.
- Wright Barnes — in the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: Wright Barnes, 61; wife Jane, 58; children Mary A., 17, George, 15, and Jane Jr., 14; and granddaughter Fannie, 13.
- Henry Rose
- Zack Cole — on 19 January 1910, Zack Cole, 24, son of Zack and Sallie Cole, married Celie Jenkins, 20, daughter of Jake and Net Jenkins, in Wilson. Missionary Baptist minister William Baker performed the ceremony in the presence of Georgia C. Aiken, F.A. Edwards, and J.H. Aiken. In the 1910 census of Wilson, Wilson County: farm laborer Sack Cole, 25, and wife Sallie, 22.
- “the Barnes hotel” — I have not identified this business.