Freedmen's Bureau Records: Sarah A. Craig to Thomas
P. Jackson, June 1, 1866
Summary:
In a letter written by her son, Sarah Craig disputes the claims of a former
slaver of hers, Ellen Taylor. Among other things, she states that she is not
responsible for any thing that happened before the emancipation.
Thos P. Jackson,
Agent
Freedman's Bureau
Staunton, Va.
June 1st 1866
Near Middlebrook
Dear Sir:
yesterday Archibald Smith came for the things that Ellen Taylor had left in my care until she sent for them; these I let him have & such other things as I could spare.
I too was greatly astonished, when I saw the letter from you, concerning the wages of said Ellen as I thought we were square. As to the crop of Corn & Potatoes raised by Toby Taylor (Ellens Husband) I will say that I had to study awhile before I knew what it meant; then I recollected that told Toby that he might have a piece of corn (about an Acre) if he would attend to it; but unfortunately for him he took sick and died before the corn was gathered.
I also told him he might have a piece of ground for Potatoes; he planted them, [deleted: and died before they came] but they were never gathered in, they rotted in the ground. This you see was before the negroes were free (in 1864) so I think I am clear of that.
As to Ellen's wages, I told her when she first was set free that I would give her her victuals & clothes if she would stay with me. She stayed until about 2 months ago, when she left; and now I think it would be great injustice for me to have to repay her.
I sent you a note by A. Smith stating that I would be in town in a few days & see you but other arrangements makes me write this to you instead. I hope this will make all things right.
Yours Res
Sarah A. Craig
Written by her son
