Black Timeline Part 2
1862.
#134 All Saints Burial
Henry? Stewart. 2 years.
Jan 12, 1863.
All Saints Marriages
Hannah Howard (?) and Henry Alexander, Witnessed by Sarah Alexander
May 22, 1863
All Saints Burials
Henrietta Alexander. St. Andrews. 22 years
Standard
Sept 23/1863
A smart trick--a woman disguised as a colored person went into one of the stores in town a few evenings ago, and said a lady with whom she lived sent her for some crockery ware; the lad selected the ware and the woman took it away; after she had gone someone I the store remarked her arms were white. This awakened the suspicions of the land and he at once went to the house where the woman resides, and ascertained that he had been swindled, as she had not sent for the articles. As the person who committed the act is known, and will be compelled to return the articles, her name is withheld for the present.
Commissioners Poor RS 148
Nov 17, 1864
To George Stewart 1 days hauling turnips from farm to Market Square
Received payment George Stewart, x his mark
Witness James Keler
Overseers Poor RS 148
Dec 5, 1864
1 load wood for Eliza Stewart, colored, 75 cents
Standard
Feb 7/1866
“A poor darkey who was sent to jail for marrying two wives, excuses himself by saying
that when he had one she fought him, but when he had two they fought each other.”
Commissioners Poor St. Andrews RS 148
June 26, 1866
1 dress for Margaret 25 cents
1 bonnet for Margaret 25 cents
1 dress for Clara 25 cents
2 caps for Clara 20 cents
2 pinafores for Mary 15 cents
2 for baby 15 cents
2 dresses for baby 25 cents
Total 1 dollars 50 cents
Hanna Maria Dolby [wife of keeper]
To Mr. John Lochary St. Andrews
Feb 20, 1867.
St. Andrews Standard
Death of Isabel Stuart.
Commissioners Poor St. Andrews Rs 148
May 4, 1867
1 load wood for David Ross.
[David Ross on list of sundries for Poor House 1868 but not necessarily living there—see other lists]
Poor House Records RS 148
Dec 23, 1868
The parish of St. Andrews is indebted Moses Stewart for 47 days horse hire on the Alms House farm at $8.00 per month.
Nov 25, 1868 $14.55
1867 seven cows $3.50
1868 five cows $2.50
$20.55
John Dolby Keeper Alms House
R. Glenn commissioner
Commissioners of Alms House RS 148
[part of shoe repair list]
July 24, 1868
Clary shoes heeled and sewed 30 cents
Paid William Miller
Poor House Records
1848
Sundries such as flannel shirts, dresses, caps, aprons and pinafores for Margaret, Kitty, Clara
Paid H.M Dolly
Feb 12, 1868.
#201 All Saints Burial
John Stewart. 78 years. {born 1790}
Overseers of Poor RS 148
To James Hartford
1 load wood for Eliza Cole $1.00
Received payment James Hartford [x his mark]
Rural Cemetery Burial
Almira Bounds
Age 30
Lot 26B
Sept 22, 1869
1870 United States Federal Census
Houlton, Maine
Aroostook County
June 18, 1870
Bounds, Theodore G. 45, Barber, New Jersey. Mulatto
Bounds, Charlotte. 12. At Home. NB. Mulatto (b. 1858)
Bounds, Theodore G. Jr. 9. Maine. Mulatto (b. 1861)
Bounds, Edward G. or C. 6. NB. Mulatto (b. 1864)
Bounds, Elmira. 5. Maine. Mulatto (b. 1865)
Bounds, Maria. 4. Maine. Mulatto (b. 1866)
Bounds, John. 9 months, born February. Maine. Mulatto (b. 1869)
Brixton, Jessie. 36. NB. Mulatto. Housekeeper
Sept 7, 1870.
St. Andrews Standard
Death of Joseph Alexander.
Sept 28, 1870.
St. Andrews Standard
Death of Charles C. Stewart.
1871 Census—
One House:
Margaret Brooks, 55, African, Episcopal. illiterate
Hannah Dutton, 25, African, Episcopal, literate, washerwoman
In same house George Lowry, 25, seaman, no color listed
One House:
Isabella Graham, 74, Jamaica, lives with Henry Johnson, Norwegian, Tide Waiter and family
One house:
Mary Jane Kyle, 38, African. Illiterate
Lives with William 60 and Mary 13, irish, same last name. Mary illiterate
One House:
William Henderson, 42, Illiterate, Irish, labourer
Ellen [Helen] Henderson, 44, labourer, Irish
John Henderson, 21, barber, irish
Charles Henderson, 20, sailor, illiterate, irish
George Henderson, 18, labourer, Irish
James Henderson, 16, labourer, irish
Walter Henderson, 14, irish
Ada Henderson, 10, irish
Maud Henderson, 7, irish
Harry Henderson, 4, irish
Fred Henderson, 2, irish
[Helen Henderson was the daughter of Moses Stewart, and mulatto, not irish]
Poor House--
Clara Richardson, 81, American, African, Episcopal
Margaret Richardson, 38, African, American
Mary E. Richardson, 9, African, American
[lives in dwellwing with mixed families, mostly irish, 15 persons less themselves, almost all “paupers.” Thomas Finly, Manager
One House:
Eliza Cole, 48, NB, Irish [no], labourer
Margaret Cole, 16
Georgianna E. Cole, 14
Samuel R. Cole, 12
[no color given for these persons]
One House:
George Stewart, 45, English [no] farmer
Eliza Stewart, 35
Margaret Stewart, 14
Georgianna Stewart, 10
George Stewart, 3
Moses Stewart, 77
Elizabeth Stewart 75
Margaret Brooks, 40
(duplication here—Eliza Cole and children)
Joseph Alexander, 8, African
Sarah Alexander, 46, washerwoman, African, illiterate
[seems to have moved into Slabtown after husband’s death—all the other kids are elsewhere]
(Poor House?)
David Ross, 86, Bermuda, Episcopal, African, barber, Illiterate, pauper
Betsy [Elizabeth], 52, African, NB, simple—caused by being burned [see fire of 1859; must have been partners with Theodore Bounds]
(Ross definitely lived in the Poor House with Betsy)
Chamcook—
Abram Lodge, 63, English farmer
Harriet Lodge, 52, irish Catholic
William Lodge, 23, Irish Catholic
John Lodge, 21, irish Catholic
Ellen Lodge, 22, irish Catholic
Sarah Lodge, 28, irish Catholic
Jane Lodge, 15, Irish Catholic
(1871 Census—38 Blacks)
1870 Federal Census—Maine
Houlton, June 18, 1870
One House:
Theodore Bounds, 45, barber, New Jersey
Charlotte Bounds, 12, at home, NB
Theodore G. Jr. 9, at home, Maine
Edward G or C, 6, NB
Elmira, 5, Maine
Maria, 4, Maine
John, 9 months, born Feb., Maine
[no Almira, must have died in childbirth, death 1869)
Brixton, Jessie. 36. Housekeeper, NB
1872, March 4
Deed Justices of Charlotte to James Doherty.
[Doherty pays off his mortgage on a piece of land on the Frye Road purchased in 1867 and becomes legal possessor thereof.
1872, April
Justices of Charlotte to Charles Tupper.
Book 20, 294. More deeds in this section.
April 10, 1872
All Saints Burials
David Ross. St. Andrews. 87
Commissioners Poor St. Andrews RS 148
April 11, 1872
To Alex Donald for digging grave in cemetery (D. Ross) 2.00
Box and trucking 1.50
Total 3.50
Paid Alexander Donald
To Commissioners Poor St. Andrews
Alexander Donald
For digging Black Ross Grave $2.00
Box and trucking $1.50
Total $3.50
1872, April 26
Justices of Charlotte to Andrew Boyd.
Lot 3 Western Commons. 25 acres. “heretofore leased by the late Henry Smith” Book 20, 292
1872, April 26
Lease Justices of Charlotte to William Maxwell.
Lot 12 Western Commons. 240 dollars. 25 acres
1872, April 25
Lease Justices of Charlotte to James Maxwell. Lot 13 Western Commons. 240 dollars. “to said James Maxwell, his heirs and assigns . . . according to the plan [of Western Commons] thereof made by the late Archibald Fisher . . .
1872, April 27
Lease Justices of Charlotte to James Doherty.
Lots 5, 7, 8 and 9 Western Commons. 400 dollars. 10 acres each. “aforesaid three of said lots being on the Western side of the highway leading through said western commons past the dwelling house of said Dougherty and one of the said lots being on the eastern side of the said road . . .” Book 20, 299.
Standard
March 13/1872
H. M. “Niger” grounded on Western bar on way to St. Stephen in 1866.
Commissioners of Alms House and Poor
To Alexander Campbell, Director
Sept 21, 1872
February for coffin for Chr. Stewart? 4.00
March for coffin for Eliza Ross 4.00
May for coffin and attendance William Anderson 4.50
total 12.50
Paid Alexander campbell
St. Andrews Sept 21, 1872
May 29, 1872
All Saints Burials
Betsy Ross. Alms House [abode]
St. Andrews. [age illegible] [daughter of David Ross?]
Commissioners Poor House Rs 148
aug 1, 1872
For making Betsy Ross and dress 40 cents
Annie Miller
[was this her funeral dress?]
August 21, 1872
Marriage of Charles Norris and Maria Brickson
(marriage certificate)
March 11, 1874.
#277 All Saints Burial
Ellen Henderson. (or Helen Henderson, nee Stewart—see cemetery stone)
May 14, 1875
All Saints Burials
Margaret Richardson
St. Andrews. About 40 years old
1875
Lease Municipality of Charlotte to William Maxwell,
lot 12 Western Commons, 25 acres. West side of highway leading to Chamcook.
1876
Lease lots 12 and 13 to Almire Maxwell, Western Commons. Highest bidder at 100 dollars. Immediately mortgaged for 76 dollars.
Nov 6, 1876.
#331 All Saints Burial
Clara {prob. Clarissay of 1851 census} Richardson. 80 years. Alms House {born 1796}
Jan 10, 1877.
#314 All Saints Burial
Betsy [Elizabeth] Stewart. 89 years. [wife of Moses Stewart? prob. 79 years] {born 1798, according to cemetery stone}
Standard
May 9, 1877
Terrible Accident
On Friday last, about one o’clock, George Stewart, a coloured man, who resides on the Commons, was repairing a horse collar, was seized with a fit, and fell among the embers of the fire left after cooking dinner. There were only two small children in the house at the time, who attempted to drag the poor man out of the fire place, which they partially accomplished, but finding they could not get him out, they started for the shore where his father {Moses} was at work, and while on their way, met a son of Mr. James Dougherty, and having informed him of the accident, he started at once for the house, and pulled the poor man away from the fireplace, not however before his face had been fearfully burned, the lower part of his right ear actually roasted and his right eye destroyed. The unfortunate man was some time before he showed signs of consciousness, and when able asked for water; his mouth was so dreadfully swollen that it was difficult for him to drink. Dr. Gove having been sent for, dressed the wounds, and ordered the suffering man to the Alms House. Little hopes are entertained of his recovery.
St. Croix Courier
May 10/1877
Terrible Accident—A Man Roasted Alive
George Stewart, a coloured man who resides a short distance out of the Town of St. Andrews, while in a fit on Saturday last, fell off the chair on which he was seated headlong into the fire. There was no one in the house at the time besides Stewart except a girl of some six years, a niece of his. She ran out and called her brothers and sisters, who were at play in a field a short way off. They came in and with their united strength (they were all children) were unable to drag him from the fire, on which he lay roasting. One of the children ran for help, and had to go about half a mile to the shore where some men were at work. When they entered the house they found Stewart lying on the fire, head close to the back of the chimney and clothes burning. They speedily removed him and tore the burning shirt off him. Young Dougherty went at once into town for medical aid. Dr. Samuel T. Gove, and Dr. Harry Gove promptly repaired to the sense of the accident, and administered what remedies were necessary at the moment. The house in which Stewart lived in was a mere hovel, presenting a scene of squalid misery, and was not a proper place in which to take care of the man. The Doctor ordered his removal to the poor house, on reaching which a thorough examination was made and all that could be done to alleviate the suffering of the patient was attended to. Fortunately, he was unconscious. His person presented a sickening appearance. The right arm from the wrist to the neck was literally roasted, the right side from the lower rib upwards, and extending from near the back bone to the right breast was almost as bad, the fingers of the left hand were burned, the fore finger dreadfully so, his right ear was burned off, also all the hair from his hear, the scalp and flesh on the forehead were literally charred, right eye destroyed, and right cheek roasted. It is not possible for him to recover. Sunday he was conscious, complaining of the pain to his shoulder; his head and arm had swollen very much, and the swelling was increasing.
May 31.
#339 All Saints Burial
Stewart. 1877. 51 years.
32.56 No. 39. Lease Municipality of Charlotte to Moses Stewart. Oct 18, 1877. Farmer. Lots 13 and 14 Western Commons. 7 year lease. $12 dollars. Illiterate—X his mark.
Municipality of Charlotte to Moses Stewart. 18 October 1877. Lots 13 and 14. 17 acres. 7 year lease (to 1884). 21 year maximum lease allowed. $12 per annum.
Abram Lodge to Sarah Lodge, daughter.. One dollar. 1878. Chamcook property. Record stops here—nothing of Sarah Lodge after this date. 26 acres—both lots. “Being the homestead farm where I now reside and containing 26 acres more or less fronting on the beach at the nigh water mark and of the width of 26 rods and extending to the land of John Cunningham preserving the same width for the whole distance. . . “
April 19, 1878
Poor House Records
Board of Charlotte Bounds at Alms House from May 18, 1878 to Aug 9, 1878 12 weeks at $1.25 per week. $15 dollars
Nov 6, 1878.
St. Andrews Standard
Death of Abram Lodge,
1878 Municipality of Charlotte to Thomas Truesdale, lot 10 Western Commons. Book 28, p 184
Poor House Records RS 148
In the record for Nov 12, 1878 Charlotte Bounds: cash “from Commissioners of Poor Parish West Isles (Deer Island) for expenses incurred in case of Charlotte Bounds (colored, and ? statement, 42 dollars, 90 cents.
Pilot
Dec 5/1878
A gentleman in New Orleans was agreeably surprised to find a plump turkey served up for his dinner, and inquired of his servants how it was obtained. “Why sir,” replied Sambo, “dat turkey been roosting on our fence tree nights. So dis morning I seized him for the rent of de fence.”
Poor House Records
In the record for Dec 31, 1878 C Bounds is listed as an inmate for 3 months, and her child T. Bounds is listed as an inmate for 5 weeks.
Poor House Records RS 148 e5h3
May 6 to 19, 1879
Charlotte Bounds support for child
“Received from Commissioners of Poor Parish of West Isles for E. S. Polleys Secretary Commissioners Parish of St. Andrews nine dollars seventy five cents for allowance for care and support of my child from Feb 1, 1879 to May 3, 1879—13 weeks at 75 cents per week.” Charlottie [sic] Bounds
Standard
Jan 15/1879
Fifty years ago last April, two persons, black Dick and Maria, were executed in St. Andrews for murder of their children, and but few of the residents who witnessed it, are now living.
March 12, 1880.
#345 All Saints Burial
Gerry Cole. 78 years. {born 1802} {brother of Polly Bignall / Cole?}
1881 Census—
Town:
One House:
James Henderson, barber, 23. Lives with ? unclear house numbering
One House:
Charles Norris, African, cook, US, 33
Maria Norris, 30
Helen Norris, 8 [not listed as blind, but not in school either]
Jessie Norris, 6
Edward Norris, 1
Rural:
One House:
Eliza Stewart, 57, washerwoman
George Stewart, 23, servant
Samuel Stewart, 21, servant
One House:
Moses Stewart, 87, African, farmer
Jessie Brixon, 40, African, no profession listed
George Griffith, 13, African, no in school
Lottie Bounds, African, 22, no profession given
Myra Bounds, African, 3, African
One House:
George Henderson, 30, African farmer
Isabella Henderson, 28, English
Mary Henderson, 2, English
Slabtown area a mixture of professions—farmers mostly but also dairymen, labourers, servants, washerwomen
Outside Slabtown Area:
One House:
William Henderson, 50, labourer, lives with William Pye, carpenter, and Pye family [does not seem to be in Slabtown area per se]
One House:
David Murphy, 42, Seaman, Presb.
Harriet Murphy, 33, Roman Catholic, African [Harriet Lodge, Junior?]
Eight children, Irish, Presbyterian
One House: [next door to David Murphy above]
Harriet Lodge, 70, Ireland Roman Catholic, female farmer [soldiering on without her husband, who died 1870]
John Lodge, 25, NB, RC, seaman
Bridget Lodge, 22, NB, RC, servant
Ellen Lodge, 24, NB, RC, servant
Sarah Lodge, 26, NB, RC, Irish servant
(1881 Census—31 Blacks assuming Harriet Murphy is Harriet Lodge)
32.61 No. 41 Moses Stewart to Jessie Brickson. Assignment of Lease. Sept 5, 1881. Moses Stewart of St. Andrews; Jessie Brickson his daughter, also of St. Andrews. Lots 13 and 14—17 acres. Western Commons. X his mark.
June 6, 1882.
#377 All Saints Burials
Clifford Norris. 8 weeks.
April 26, 1883
All Saints Burials
William Lowry
St. Andrews Alms House. 84 years
36.374 No. 290 Mortgage Jessie Brickson to T. T. O’Dell via Bank of St. Andrews. 200 dollars. Nov. 14, 1884. Lots 13 and 14. Western Commons. X her mark.
36.373 No. 289 Lease. Municipality of Charlotte to Jessie Brickson. Nov. 19, 1884. Lots 13 and 14 Western Commons. 6 dollars biannually. (She was illiterate—x her mark) 17 acres.
1887.
#437 All Saints Burials
Ella Henderson. 16 years. {born 1871}
1888.
#1308 All Saints Baptisms
{looks like George?} Samuel and Bridget Cole. Labourer.
Pilot
Feb 16/1888
What Does It Mean?
Several owners of real estate in St. Andrews and vicinity have recently been approached by American gentlemen, with a view to ascertain if they could be induced to sell their property, and if so at what price. In two or three instances memorandums have been issued by which the owners agree to accept amounts for their property, stated in said memorandums the parties of the other part to have the refusal thereof up to the dates mentioned therein. It is also reported that the parties referred to have an eye upon the almshouse farm. We think however the ratepayers of St. Andrews will not be so foolish as to part with that property.
40.421 No. 278 Assignment of Mortgage from T. T. O’Dell to Henry Osburn “given by Jessie Brickson, widow of the Parish of St. Andrews.” $253.00 Osburn to O’Dell. (lots 13 and 14)
41.256. No. 175 Assignment of Mortgage—Henry Osburn to St. Andrews Land Company. $253.50 by St. AndrewsLC to Osburn. Aug 22, 1888. (lots 13 and 14)
St. Andrew Bay Pilot
Dec 6, 1888
“Over the Pottery Bridge” (re Slabtown)
On the evening of Saturday, 24th, Mr. Samuel Graham left St. Andrews to drive to his at Dumbarton. Mr. Graham got along alright until he got outside the town limits, then it being pitch dark, and finding it difficult to keep the road, he dropped the rains and trusted to the horse finding his way. The horse instead of turning the corner at the shore road, kept on through slabtown and was making the circuit towards town. Graham, discovering that the horse was travelling in the wrong direction, took hold of the reins and while attempting to turn backed the wagon and horse over the Pottery Bridge (which is not protected by either rail or parapet) to the bed of the brook, eight or ten feet below. Graham, tremendously surprised, having been pitched out of the wagon, scrambled to the road and made for a light which was found in the house of Mr. Robert Peacock. Mr. Peacock’s son lighted a lantern and proceeded with him to the scene of the wreck. After some exertion the horse and wagon were extricated and got upon the road. Strange to say the horse escaped uninjured, the harness was broken, and the contents of the wagon, parcels of groceries, etc., were badly broken and mixed up. Having with the aid of Master peacock tied up the harness, Mr. Graham got into his wagon and proceed towards home.
Dec 17, 1888.
#457 All Saints Burials
Moses Stewart. 95 years. {born 1793}
Pilot
Dec 20/1888
The oldest resident of St. Andrews at the date of his death on Friday last, was Mr. Moses Stewart. He was the last pureblooded Negro born in this vicinity. The late Mr. Stewart was a most exemplary man, and during the long period of his pilgrimage of 95 years, led a most harmless life. He retained his sight and hearing until nearly the last. He was a member of the Church of England, and until failing health prevented, was a regular attendant at its services. The funeral took place on Monday afternoon. His remains were taken from his late residence, Queen Street, to All Saints Church and from thence to the rural cemetery, and were followed by a number of relatives and friends.
43.496 No. 343 Deed. Municipality Charlotte to Jessie Brickson. Nov. 25, 1889. 75 dollars. One half of lot 11, (12?) Western Commons. Western Half. 5 acres. Formerly leased to Thomas Algar; April 23, 1875. Before that to William Garnett and Thomas Turner.
43.499 No. 344 Deed Jessie Brickson to St. AndrewsLC. $500. Western half of lot 11, (12?) Commons. Nov. 25, 1889. Bounded on west by highway road to Brandy Cove, on north by lot 10, formerly owned by George Lowell; on south by O’Brien lot; on east by George Lowell lot. 280 feet frontage on road; back 870 feet.
43.496 Certificate. St. Andrews Land Company to Jessie Brickson. April 22, 1890. St. Andrews Land Company assumes mortgage from henry Osburn, who assumed it from T. T. O’Dell, March 10, 1888. Book 40, pp. 421-22. Osburn to Land Company August 22, 1888. Book 41, p. 256.
Oct 13, 1889
All Saints Burials
George Lane. Alms House. St. Andrews. 80 years.
1890
least Municipality of Charlotte to Thomas Doherty, lot 19, western commons. 25 acres.
Oct 25, 1890.
All Saints Baptisms
#1337 John Cadman, son of Charles and Maria Norris. Cook.
1891 Census—
One House:
Charles Norris, 43, US. Cook. literate
Maria Norris, 41. NB. literate
Helen Norris, 17, illiterate [prob not in school because blind]
Jessie Norris, 15. literate
Edward Norris, 11. literate
Kathleen Norris, 3.
Cadman Norris, 8 months
One House, beside Norris’:
Eliza Stewart, 70, NB. Mother and Father US [no]. Illiterate
James Stewart, 8. Grandson. Can read, Parents NB
Rural--
One House:
James Henderson, 35, NB, also parents NB. Ship’s cook. Illiterate
Alice Henderson, 25, wife, NB, father English, Mother NB. Illiterate
Harry Henderson, 10, NB, can read
Herbert Henderson 6
Jimmy Henderson, 4
Lizzy? Henderson, 3
Alice Henderson, 1 year six months
One House:
William Bignall, 81. England. Labourer.
Mary Bignall, 69, wife. NB. Father West Indies [must be Jerry Cole], Mother NB.
One House: (Slabtown?)
George Henderson, 38, NB, parents NB, farm labourer
Anabelle, 36, wife, father English
Mary Henderson, 12, literate
James Henderson, 8, literate
George Henderson, 6
Jennie? 2
Poorhouse:
Edward Irwin, 45, NB. Parents Ireland. Almshouse keeper.
Jane Irwin, 50, wife, NB, Parent Ireland
Harry Irwin, 15, NB
Michael Driscoll, 75, inmate, widower, Ireland, RC, pauper
Pattie McDonald, 49, Male, Ireland, RC, Pauper
Fred Craig, 30, NB, Episcopal, pauper
William Hunt, 64, NB, parents Ireland, pauper
John McCann, 75, widower, pauper.
Margaret Mailer? 84. Ireland. Pauper, RC
One House:
Jessie Brickson, 70, black, widow, NB, Parents US, Methodist, Nurse, literate. [next to Hume]
John Bounds, 9, black, Grandson, Parents NB (b. 1882)
Edward Bounds, 7, black, Grandson, NB (b. 1884)
Thomas Stewart, 20, black, nephew. Farmer, illiterate (b. 1871)
(1891 Census—28 Blacks)
Beacon
July 20/1893
A newspaper correspondent, hearing that Mr. Van Horne, had brought his “advisor” with him to Sa, last week, asked Jim French, the colored porter, who Mr. Van Horne’s adviser was. “I’m his adviser,” replied the redoubtable Jim, without so much as a smile.
Jan 18, 1894
#521 All Saints Burial
Eliza Stuart. 69 years. {Eliza Cole, wife of George Stewart}
Beacon
Jan 25, 1894
Died at her residence King Street, St. Andrews, Jan 16, 1894, Mrs. Eliza Stewart age 69 years. (She would have been the wife of George Stewart, of the disastrous fire of 1877)
Beacon
may 17/1894
Mrs Bignall, the aged colored woman, was knocked down and run over on Saturday by one of g. D. Grimmer’s teams, driven by a lad named McCurdy. She escaped without serious injury.
Beacon
Aug 16/1894
A colored gentleman named Rev. Alexander Kersey, came to St. Andrews last Wednesday, and announced by handbills that he would lecture in the Methodist church that night on “The Spun Web,” and also sing a number of plantation melodies. When the hour for lecturing arrived, the church authorities refused to allow the lecturer to have the building, and so he was unable to spin his web. A very disgusted colored man left town that night.
Beacon
Aug 16/1894
Was it Incendiarism? (arson)
Mrs. Brixton, the colored woman who resides on the outskirts of town, is without her barn. She also mourns its contents, consisting of about fourteen tons of hay, a calf, several geese and hens, a wagon belonging to a neighbour, Mr. Ray, a number of agricultural implements, two stoves, a trunk containing her winter clothing and a variety of other things that she could ill afford to lose. All these disappeared, when her barn disappeared in smoke on Thursday morning. . . .
November 8, 1894
All Saints Burials
William Bignall. St. Andrews. 84 years.
Pensioners again on the List
Beacon
March 14, 1895
Almost two years ago a resolution was passed by the Congress of the United States that only those pensioners who resided on United States territory should receive pension money. This, of course, shut out those old soldiers who had fought and bled and risked their lives for the Union, but who had taken up their abodes in Canada “after the cruel war was over.” Two of those pensioners—Arthur MacAlinden and Charles Norris—resided in St. Andrews. For twenty one months they have not received a cent of pension money. It was a little hard on them, but they could not brook the idea of abandoning their little homes. Nor will they have to now, for on the second of March, Congress, deeming the original resolution a stain upon its history, repealed it, and ordered that all pensioners, no matter under what flag they live, should receive their dues. Mr. McAlinden’s back pension foots up to the neat little sum of $168, while Mr. Norris’ will be about $200. It will make quite a neat nest egg in their old age.
Beacon
July 11/1895
The Golf links at Joe’s Point, which was laid off by Mr. Winch, president of the St. Andrews Golf club, is said to be one of the best natural links on the American continent. Every fine day it is patronized by half a score or more enthusiastic golfers.
Beacon
Sept 12/1895
A Costly Vacation
There are few people who can afford to travel in the style of Mr. Louis Cabot, of New Hampshire. who is now enjoying an outing on Campobello, together with his wife and sister, a man-servant and maid-servant, and one of the Raymond-Whitcomb guides. It is over three weeks since Mr. Cabot and his party came to Sa in a luxurious Pullman car; since then this car, with two colored men in attendance, has been lying in Sa yard, at a daily expense to Mr. Cabot of $50. When he is travelling he is required to pay for his party a sum equal to eighteen fares. this amount, added to hotel bills, cost of car, etc., during Mr. Cabot’s outing would make a respectable little fortune for some people.
Beacon
Nov 19/1896
*A Colored Artist. Who first breathed the Air of Heaven under St. Andrews skies.
appeared in New York Sun, by T. Thomas Fortune
Article on Edward Bannister
T. Thomas Fortune has an interesting two-column sketch of Artist Bannister in the New York Sun, from which we make the following extracts:--
Edwin M. Bannister of Providence who has grown old as an artist, was born in St. Andrews, NB, about sixty-three years ago. His parents were of French, Indian and African origin. He attended the village school, and while there laid the foundation of a practical education. Before his tenth year he had gained a local reputation for cleverness in making pictures of his schoolmates and his fathers’ neighbors. he was apprenticed to a most successful cobbler in Sa, but all his relatives and friends expected him to become a great artist. At that early day there were not many colored people in Sa, and so thoroughly free from race prejudice were the inhabitants that “colored” was rarely heard among them. it was not until he became ambitious to develop his artistic powers, and consequently left his native town, that he was made to feel the distinction between a white and a brown skin.
While at home in St. Andrews, he lived in an atmosphere of British fair play, where character and not race made the man, consequently his individuality was that of an enterprising “down Easter.” The presence of African blood in his veins had no power to make him accept a prescribed course, or be other than what his environments made him. . . . Mr. Bannister had been but a short while from St. Andrews before he began to deal directly with attempts to estimate his manhood by the appreciation of his complexion. Naturally this aroused his British ire, and led to many vigorous protests, which rarely ended short of fistic exploits. Had his love for art been less determined, he would have given up in despair and settled down to ship building or some other mechanical calling hi his native village. he was ever sensitive to the beauties of nature. As a boy trudging after his father’s cows {SLABTOWN?} he has stood in open-mouthed wonder at the gorgeous sunsets, and followed with breathless suspense the tipping of tree and flower with gold. In total forgetfulness of everything save the wonderful color combinations he has laid for hours stretched flat on the grassy plain, or perched, gnome-like, on some great, bare rock watching the colors die away into soft translucency, then into night. Many a time he has gone supperless to his garret bed, because he was so late retuning with the cows. It is told of him that the really loved the black darkness, because it made the colors the next day newer to him. And a visit to his well-filled studio indirectly gives a semblance of truth to the story. Among a great number of landscape studies only an occasional moonlight is to be seen. His fancy seems to run entirely in sunny studies.
When he left St. Andrews his brain was fired with the ambition to reproduce on canvas the glowing pictures of wild coast life and sylvan loveliness that had filled this childhood hours with never ceasing wonder. But contact with narrow, prejudiced minds threw a pall over these bright hopes and turned him mind from nature to the contemplation of man. He became absorbed in his hope to pain the human figure. After considerable wandering, embittered by many hardships and incidents calculated to dishearten a less rugged nature, he settled down to the study of art is Boston. he studied under Dr. Rimmer, and showed such indications of genius that he soon attracted the attention of all the professors labouring with Dr. Rimmer. In this way he became associated with some very choice spirits. his first experience as an art student made his very slow in the formation of friendships outside of the realm of art, and the majority of his associates of today resulted from the old student contact in Dr. Rimmer’s classes. he finished his studies at Boston and went to Providence in 1871, where he has since resided. Before leaving Boston he became a regular exhibitor at the annual exposition of the Boston Art Club. The members of the Providence Art League met him very cordially and in the studies that he regularly presented they recognized a decided addition to the class of painters located there devoted to the French school illustrated by Bouguereau.
Having found a greater demand for landscapes than figure pieces he attended the Narragansett coast indefatigably, meeting with most flattering success, if a ready market can be deemed such. His most noted effort as “Under the Oaks,” which received the first award medal at the Centennial, Philadelphia, 1876. It was with many misgivings that he sent it to the Art Committee, like hundreds of other ambitious artists, with nothing but his simple signature attached. For many days he waited in feverish anxiety as to the result. As it was not rejected, his spirits rose appreciably. “No news is good news,” he argued, and so time passed until the opening of the Art Gallery. Trembling he secured a catalogue, and soon found “Bannister—‘Under the Oaks” (54)” He was so glad that he sat down and thought of his boyhood dreams and wished that he might see again the well-remembered sunsets. Like one in a dream he threaded his way through the thronging crowds, and stood before his effort, his head bounding with joy. It was hung in the most favorable place. In his own modest way he tells an interesting incident as to how the Jury of Awards discovered that he was an Afro-American.
“I learned from the newspapers,” said he “that ‘54’ had received a first-prize gold medal, so I hurried to the committee rooms to make sure that the report was true. There was a great crowd there ahead of me. As I jostled among them, many resented my presence, some actually commenting within my hearing, in a most petulant manner, “What is that colored person in her for?” and similar discourteous remarks. Finally, when I succeeded in reading the desk where inquiries were made, I endeavoured to gain the attention of the official in charge. he was very insolent. Without raising his eyes, he demanded in the most exasperating tone of voice, “well, what do you want here anyway? Speak lively.”
“I want to inquire concerning ’54.’ Is it a prize winner?”
“What’s that to you?”
“In an instant my blood was up; the deprecatory looks that passed between him and others in the room were unmistakeable. I was not an artist to them; I was simply an inquisitive colored man. His manner suggested a nature so small and petty that I could not bring myself to his level. Besides the thought flashed through my mind, Why give this man a change to express his prejudice? So, controlling myself, I said deliberately: I am interested in the report that “under the Oaks” has received a prize; I painted the picture.”
“an explosion could not have made a more marked impression. Without hesitation he apologized, and soon every one in the room was bowing an scraping to me. Mr. Duff of Boston purchased the picture for $1,500.” Since that time Mr. Bannister has labored very industriously, exhibiting each year in Boston and Providence making a comfortable income. A few years ago he purchased s fine sailing yacht, and all his leisure hours were spent sailing around Newport, and adjacent points for pleasure. He is naturally fond of the sea, and is as thoroughly at home when on water as on land. A recent attack of the rip makes the enjoyment a doubtful benefit, much to his regret.
Up to the present time his figure pieces have been almost entirely Scriptural. Four of his best compositions in this lien have been purchased by one of the Roman Catholic churches of Providence. At odd intervals he has devoted considerable time, to an original conception of the invitation, “Come unto Me all that ye that are weary and heavy laden.” He hopes to make it the crowning work of his life.
Mr. Bannister’s studio is very pleasantly situated in a large building, almost entirely occupied by artists. there is nothing about it to suggest the Afro-American except the painter himself and a portrait of his wife.
[Old residents of St. Andrews recollect the Bannisters very well. There were two young men in the family, one known as “Ed” and the other as “Bill.” They were smart, athletic young fellows, and left here between forty and fifty years ago., One of them established himself as a barber on Haymarket Square, Boston.—Editor]
January 13, 1897.
#554 All Saints Burial
Mary {nickname Polly?} Bignall. Alms House. Age unknown, over 80 years.
Beacon
Jan 21/1897
Minister’s Island. A Few Facts in Connection with the Early History of the island.
One of the oldest and most respected residents of the parish of St. Andrews is Mr. Marshall Andrews, who shares the ownership of Minister’s Island with his son and Sir William Van Horne. In his younger days, Mr. Andrews was a man of commanding height and as strong as a lion. His weight of 84 years has bowed his figure and robbed him of much of his youthful strength, but his intellect is as clear as ever it was, and he can discourse most interestingly on events of bygone days. . . . Mr. Andrews further informed the Beacon that the old colored woman, who died in the Alms House last week, {this was Mary Bignall} was the daughter of a slave owned by his grandfather on his maternal side, Rev. Richard Clark, who came here with the loyalists and was the first rector of Gagetown. He brought with him two slaves--Jerry Cole and wife. Polly, lately deceased, was one of the fruits of this union. She was brought up by a daughter of Rev. Mr. Clark, who resided in St. Stephen. She was about 95 years of age.
May 29, 1897.
#574 All Saints Burial
William Henderson. St. Andrews. 70 years
Beacon
Dec 2/1897
Hanson and Grady, Tailors, St. Andrews, ad showing 3 apparently black men.
1898
All Saints Burial
Kitty [Kathleen] Norris, 10 years. Born 1888.
Beacon
Nov 3/1898
Work begins on Van Horne's 20,000 dollar barn.
Mr. McKenzie has a camp for his men on the grounds. James Henderson is the landlord. They have Mr. Norris (must be Charles, Caddy’s father) for a cook and are living on the fat of the land. Under the one roof are the cook house, dining room and sleeping quarters for the men. Mr. McKenzie has a separate room for himself, adjoining the kitchen. In it he has three sleeping berths, a dining table and a stove. Although in poor health lately, life on Minister’s island seems to be agreeing with him.
Beacon
May 4/1899
A colored family has arrived from Woodstock to go into the laundry business. (related to Bounds?)
1901 Census—
One House:
Charles Norris, 54. Born Dec 25, 1846. US. African
Maria Norris. 48. Jan 26, 1853. African
Helen Norris, 27, June 30, 1872
Jessie Norris, 25, July 9, 1875
Edward Norris, 21, November 2, 1879
Cadman Norris, 10, Aug 4, 1890
One House:
James Henderson, 45, June 12, 1855
Alice Henderson, 35, April 7, 1865
Harry Henderson, 18, May 31, 1882
Herbert Henderson, 16, Sept 11, 1884
James Henderson, 14, Jan 21, 1886
Elizabeth Henderson, 13, Aug 3, 1887
Alice Henderson, 11. Jan 11, 1890
One House:
George Henderson, 48, labourer, March 28, 1853
Anabella Henderson, 50, Feb 5, 1851
Mary Henderson, 22, May 20, 1878
James Henderson, 20, June 11, 1889
George Henderson, 16, Sept 3, 1884
no Jessie Brickson in this census, though she was here—maybe just not in town at the time
(1901 Census—18 or 19 Blacks)
Beacon
Jan 17/1901
A New Brunswick Artist
Providence, R. I. Jan 10—Edward M. Bannister, a native of St. Andrews, NB, a famous negro artist, died suddenly of heart disease today. he ranked with the foremost American artist, his work being on exhibition in the leading galleries, and won prizes at the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition. he was born of West Indian parentage. [Though many years have elapsed since the Bannister family left St. Andrews, there are some of the older residents who still remember the famous artist.]
Oct 29, 1901.
#611 All Saints Burial
Jessie Norris. 28 years.
60.7 No. 7874 Deed. Municipality Charlotte to Jessie Brickson. Oct 2, 1902. “And whereas the said Jessie Brickson is now, and was in the year 1889, lessee of the several lots or portions of said Western Commons . . . and has been . . . the lessee thereof continuously since a date prior to 1881, at an annual rent . . . of 16 dollars and 2 cents, that is to say 12 dollars in respect of Lots number 13 and 14 . . . and four dollars and 2 cents in respect of the West half of lots number 12, also herein after described; and whereas the County Council . . . in the month of January, 1889, made and passed a bylaw in the following terms: ‘ordered, that the lessees of the Western Commons . . . shall have the right to purchase, under the provisions of the Act of Assembly passed 12th April 1861, Chap. XXXV, the lands by them respectively occupied at a sum the interest of which at 4 percent per annum is equal to the rent which was payable by such lessees, or those under or through whom they claim, at the time of the passage of the Act, with all rent ot date and the expense of conveyance,’ . . . and whereas . . . the said Jessie Brickson is desirous of obtaining a fee simple title of the said lands, . . . paying therefore a sum of $400.50, the sum sufficient to yield at 4 percent per annum an amount equal to the said rent of 16.02 . . .
60.8 No. 7875 Deed. Jessie Brickson to F. Howard Grimmer. Oct 6, 1902. One dollar. Lots 13, 14 and half of 12. “All of which said lots together form one block of land bounded on the westerly side by the Brandy Cove Road, southerly by the highway connecting the last mentioned Road with the Commons or Bayside Road, and easterly in part by the east half of said commons lot no 12, and on the northern side by lands of the St. Andrews Land company, and said East half of said commons lot no. 12.
Beacon
April 2/1903
The Algonquin golf course will be enlarged to an 18 hole course this summer. the Brixton property, recently purchased, will be included therein. A portion of the Alms House farm may also be leased for the purpose. A professional golfer from Toronto, will arrive here in a few days to look over and lay out the ground.
Beacon
April 16, 1903
Laying out the Golf Links
Mr. George Cumming, of the Toronto Golf Club, was in Sa on Wednesday and Thursday of last week, laying out an eighteen hole golf course for the Algonquin golf club. He is delighted with the St. Andrews links.
Beacon
Aug 6/1903
C. N. to be formed. another line from coast to coast. Yardage of each hole on golf course. ladies to compete for cup offered by Miss Reta Benson.
The new golf course is proving very popular. The course is divided as follows:--
Club House—225 yards
Kidd’s treasure—235 yards
Knoll, 300 yards
Target, 125 yards
Joe’s Point, 225 yards
Grove, 400 yards
Westward Ho, 300 yards
Big Spruce, 550 yards
Cedars, 235 yards
Haw Trees, 135 yards
Eastward Ho, 290 yards
Apple Trees, 315 yards
Maple Tree, 160 yards
Brook, 170 yards
Swamp, 215 yards
Cedar Lane, 390 yards
The Stumps, 140 yards
Home, 205 yards. (total—4615 yards)
Beacon
March 16/1905
A new golf club house is to be built on Cedar Lane, near where the Brickson House stood.
Beacon
March 30/1905
While here last week, Mr. O’Leary arranged for the building of another Golf Club House on Cedar Lane. He expected to do some cottage building this spring but it is now too late of this season.
April 22-26, 1905
Lewiston Journal—Illustrated Magazine Section
A Family of Military Fame: the History of the Browns of East Livermore Covers three Wars: Anecdotes from the Revolution to the civil War.
. . .
About the time Wesley Brown’s term of enlistment expired, one of his little girls broke the head of a little black doll of which she was very fond; so pap was written to bring her home another. Word soon came back that he was on his way back, and that he was bringing Emma’s ‘nigger baby’ with him. When he arrived there was consternation dire among the children of the Brown family, for the ‘nigger baby’ proved to be a great overgrown fourteen-year-old coloured boy, black as charcoal and green as grass, a combination of color not at all pleasing to the little girls. Indeed, so great was their terror, the new importation was obliged to spend his first night at East Livermore in the barn on account of it.
The way Mr. Brown came by his unique acquisition was this: While encamped near Harper’s Ferry, before the emancipation proclamation, this lad kept watching around the cook’s tent until he made up his mind the soldiers were about to leave; then he sidled in and asked to be taken along too. Mr. Brown told him to be around the next morning and he might go. In the bustle of breaking camp, the darkey boy was entirely forgotten,, until he turned up bright and early, his bundle in his hand. When the transport that carried the soldiers started, the young negro was on board.
This boy, Charlie Norris, by name, acted as cook’s assistant for Co. I, and soon became a general favorite. he was eager to learn to read and write, and he kept a piece of clapboard on which he used to get the soldiers to print capital for him to copy. In this way he learned his letters. When he came North, Mr. Brown’s daughters taught him to read in the primer. He stopped at East Livermore for a year or more, working for Mr. Brown in the mill and on the farm, and went to school there during the winter.
Finally, Charlie Norris enlisted himself, from the town of East Livermore, and joined a colored regiment, seeing active service all over Georgia and the neighoring states, and remaining until the close of the war. Then he came back to Maine and worked about East Livermore, going to school winters, as before.
At length he went to Portland and got a position on the steamboat John Brooks, then plying between that city and Boston, and kept that job for several years. The Browns had a few letters from him during this period, as well as one or two visits. he soon developed into a big, brawny man, weighting two hundred pounds or more.
Charlie Norris was very fond of music and he had a voice like that of a lion. On the occasion of his last visit to the Browns, he attended a prayer meeting one evening: when the congregation started a hymn, Norris joined in the singing. Rev. Mr. Waterhouse was the pastor of the East Livermore charge that year, and when Charlie let out that big voice of his, it is said the worthy elder jumped almost out of his chair in astonishment.
The ex-slave finally drifted off Nova Scotia way and married a woman of his own race there, evidently of some considerable education, for the Browns subsequently had a number of letters from her. They ceased more than twenty years ago, however, and what finally became of the Norris family is not known.
Beacon
Sept 14/1905
Aug 12, 1826 Richard and Marie Stewart, a brother and sister, were arrested for murder of their illegitimate child. Judge Chipman ordered execution. Executed Aug 28. Hanging took place in public square beside Kennedy’s
Nov 29, 1905.
#653 All Saints Burial
George Henderson. 21 years.
1910.
#698 All Saints Burial
Mary L. Stuart. 23 years.
Beacon
March 23/1911
Charles Norris
Mr. Charles H. Norris, whose death occurred on Monday last, had been for 32 years a resident of St. Andrews. (1879) The greater part of this time he had spent as chef at Kennedy’s hotel. Born in Maryland 67 years ago (1844), he took part in the Civil War of the United States and at the time of his death was in receipt of a pension from the U. S. Government. He was a quiet, industrious, model citizen. he is survived by his wife, two sons and one daughter. His funeral took place yesterday afternoon.
Beacon
Sept 26/1912
Reminiscences of Old St. Andrews (written by the late R. Melville Jack and read before the Canadian Literary Club of St. Andrews):
One of my first memories is my father telling me that he had seen a hundred vessels loading pine timber here at one time. That was before the duty was taken off Baltic lumber in England. My father came from the West Indies, where he had been manager on a plantation and had the management of the slaves. . . . Among others I recall were . . . Old Joe, (Joe’s Point?) a negro who lived in an old ship’s cabin at the head of the town, and made splendid spruce beer; the Pottery on the brook that crosses the Joe’s Point road just above the town. Flower pots were their principal product but they made clay marbles and we could get a lot for a copper (no cents in those days).
1913
Death of Jessie Brickson
(1830-1913 according to cemetery stone)
1915.
Burial All Saints,
Charles E [dward] Norris, 36 years. Born 1879.
Nov 19, 1918.
#767 All Saints Burial
George Henderson. 64 years.
Beacon
Aug 10/1918
To His Worship the Mayor,
Dear Mr. Greenlaw:
It has been suggested to me by the Manager in Chief of the Canadian Pacific Railway’s hotels, that it might be possible for the Town of St. Andrews to be willing to exchange the Poor House, situated on the Farm and which is rented by us for Golf Links, for the property known as The Inn and Indian Point.
May 29, 1922.
#796 All Saints Burials
Maria Norris, 73 years.
(she may have erected the stone to the Stewart family, if not Jessie)
1928--Frances Wren’s pictorial history shows Slabtown along Cedar Lane. “Black violet, who came with Colonel Hatch’s family, could remember as a little girl in Africa when the slave ship came and took her away.”
Grace Helen Mowat
The Diverting History of a Loyalist Town, 1935
36 The ships anchored in the harbour, the small boats were lowered and the gallant gentlemen, in their powdered wigs and plum-colored coats and three-cornered hats, helped the ladies to alight. How quaint and delightful a picture. Those courteous gentlemen and gentle, courageous ladies, in silks and quilted petticoats, tripping up over the sands to their new homes. Was there ever before so strange an exodus as that of the Loyalists? There they were with all their household goods, priceless mahogany and silver plate, damask and linen, family portraits, and heavy trunks, brass-studded and covered with calf skin, their servants and colored slaves. All landed there on the red sandstone with the gorgeous forest back of them in the haze of a lovely Indian summer day, starting again to build them a city to dwell in. What a picture for Watteau or Fortuney.
Mowat, Diverting History
61 {Colonel Christopher Hatch, from Boston with Loyalists, originally to Saint John, where he had been granted land, later obtaining a military appointment in St. Andrews. Could Moses Stewart have come here from Saint John with him?}
Among his various retainers was an old colored slave named Violet, who was unsurpassed as a cook and served up many a sumptuous dinner for the Colonel’s parties. This old woman lived to a great age and was in later days a source of much interesting information of Revolutionary times.
St. Croix Courier
Aug 20/1936
Shire town Items—A Sincere Tribute. About 250 people helped Caddy Norris, the Shiretown’s one and only colored gentleman, celebrate his birthday last Tuesday evening in Elite Hall. The party was typical of that ideal democracy practiced by Mr. Norris himself. Pauper or millionaire alike were welcomed by the friend-loving, friend-making host. No person remains long in St. Andrews without knowing “Caddy” and everyone who knew him was welcome. Miss Edna Smith and Larry Lace took charge of the dance program, and the music was provided by Caddy’s orchestra, which plays in Elite Hall several nights a week. Several solos were sung during the evening, which was enjoyed by everyone. A cash presentation was made to Caddy by the steward of the Algonquin Hotel on behalf of the staff of the hotel.
Courier
Oct 15, 1936
Shiretown Items
An old friend returns
Do you remember Sam Cole? If so, you are getting along in years; you are not as young as you used to be. Same Cole is an aged colored gentleman, who was born and brought up in St. Andrews but moved to Caribou, Maine, 45 years ago. His real name is Stuart but in St. Andrews he was always called Cole, his mother’s name. Same Cole, after living in Caribou for a number of years where he lost his wife and three children, moved to New Waterford, Cape Breton. In this latter town he lived for 22 years. Until recently Sam Cole was comfortably situated but the last year or two he has been unable to obtain work due to his age. The aged colored gentleman, now 78, (born in 1858) has been on a visit to his only remaining son in Caribou, hoping to have a home with him there. However, the son was in too poor circumstances to bear the additional weight of supporting another, and the kindly old man returned to St. Andrews, his old home town, to see if the town would do anything for his relief. the town is under no obligation to give relief to Sam Cole, who, though born in St. Andrews, is still a resident of New Waterford, having left there only in last April. The relief committee, rather than turn the poor old fellow out on the cold world, are giving him a letter to the Mayor of New Waterford and enough funds to carry him at least part of the way to his destination.
St. Croix Courier
May 28/1942
Photo of militia outside market House, circa 1860. Reference to hanging of blacks circa 1870.
July 6, 1942.
#920 All Saints Burial
Helen Norris,
Aug 28, 1948.
#973 All Saints Burial
John Cadman Norris. 58 years.
Lewiston Evening Journal
July 23, 1956
Mrs. Margaret Kemp
Leeds—Mrs. Margaret Kemp, 102, Leeds’ oldest resident, died Saturday night following a short illness.
Born at St. Andrews, NB, June 12, 1854, she was the daughter of George and Eliza Stuart.
Mrs. Kemp came to Lewiston at the age of 21 {1875} with the family for whom she worked. She married John Kemp in 1876 and moved to Leeds in the same year. They resided on the former Dube place which became popular as a social gathering place and was later turned into the Royal Palm Club by the Kemps.
Mr. Kemp died in 1941. The couple were the parents of six children, four of whom survive.
On her 100th birthday, Mrs. Kemp received among other congratulations, a card from pres. Dwight D. Eisenhower. She was a member of the three-Quarter Century Club in Portland.
Survivors include two sons: Maurice of Leeds, with whom she made her home, and Henry of Mon., 2 daughters Mrs. Etta Nichols of Auburn and Miss Lottie Kemp of Leeds, 8 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and a nephew.
At Leeds, July 21, Mrs. Margaret kemp age 102. Funeral services will be Tuesday at 2 pm at Bragdon and Flanders Funeral home in Mon. Joseph LeMaster conducting. Buried at Lothrop Cemetery in Leeds.
(Her granddaughter Elaine Bragdon, in an email to me March 6, 2005: “Yes, I am a descendant of the Stuart/Stewart/Norris/Brickson and Henderson families. . . . My family was very poor (as were most of the blacks in St. Andrews) and as the younger generations became of age they moved to maine, a few actually moved back to Canada. I found it interesting that most were actually taken back to St. Andrews to be buried.” {ebragdon@gwi.net}
St. Croix Courier
Aug 4/1966
Rose refers to an incident at “nigger corner.”