Freedmen's Bureau Records: Thomas P. Jackson to
Orlando Brown, March 24, 1868
Summary:
Jackson's report refers to a defect in the Hustings (Or Corporation) Court and a
special report he submitted to Brown on March 10. He notes that it is very
difficult for freedmen to receive impartial decisions.
Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands,
Office 4th Division, 9th
Sub-District, Virginia.
Brig. Genl. O.
Brown
Asst. Comr. (B.R.F.
& A.L.) Dist. of Va.
Richmond (Thro. HdQrs 9" Sub Dist.
Va.)
March 24 1868
Staunton, Va.
General
In compliance with C.O. No. 10 BRF & AL S. 1866 I have the honor to report that during this month session of Hustings Court, Staunton has been held and County Court has just opened its sittings. As to the decisions of Hustings Court I respectfully refer to my special report of March 10/68 in cases of Comm v. James Brigham & Comm v. John McNinch whether the defect [unclear: inheres] in the law or in the officers I cannot decide, but although impartial justice may not be denied in [unclear: terms] to freedmen it is very evident it is difficult for them to obtain it either before courts or magistrates. From this remark I would except controversies as to property but these as compared with breaches of the peace are very rare with freedmen.
I have the honor to be, General
Yr obt servt
Thos P. Jackson
Asst Sub Asst Comr
