Horace M. Lankford

This blog post is another in a series connecting the dots in my tree to the souls buried at Bairdstown Cemetery in Bairdstown, Oglethorpe County, Georgia.

Horace M. Lankford was born on September 17, 1897, in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. He was the son of Charles “Charlie” Moore Lankford and Mary “Minnie” Franklin Williamson. Alongside Horace, Charles and Minnie had a daughter named Maude Estelle Lankford. Unfortunately, a third child did not survive. Horace is my 2nd cousin 3x removed, and our nearest common relatives are Charles L. Lankford and Miss Moore, who are my 4th great grandparents. His grandfather, Curtis Caldwell Lankford, is a brother of my 3rd great grandfather, James Meriweather Lankford.

On June 1, 1900, the Lankford family resided in the Bowling Green district of Oglethorpe County, Georgia. Horace’s father worked as a farmer, while his sister Maude (enumerated as Mary) attended school at age 11. Horace’s mother had given birth to three children, of whom two were still living. His parents had been married for 14 years, and both Horace’s parents and his sister were able to read, write, and speak English.

Horace’s sister, Maude, married Andrew C. McElreath, the son of Charles C. Lee McElreath and Emaline Peeler, on May 14, 1905, in Oglethorpe County, Georgia. By 1910, Maude and her husband were residing in Bowling Green.

In June 2021, when writing a sketch for Horace’s father Charles, I was unable to locate him and his family in the 1910 census. Fast forward three years later, and the situation remains unchanged. Despite thorough searches on Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org, using various combinations of first and last name and locations, I still cannot find them. As mentioned above, I located Horace’s sister, Maude, living in Bowling Green, but not Horace and his parents.

In September 1918, Horace registered for the World War I draft in Washington, Wilkes County, Georgia. At the time of registration, he resided in the city of Rayle in Wilkes County. Horace listed his occupation as a farm laborer, working for C. M. Lankford (his father), who lived in Rayle, and was also noted as his nearest relative. With brown hair and eyes, he had a medium build and height. 

World War I draft registration card

On February 2, 1920, 22-year-old Horace and his parents resided on Washington Road in Bowling Green. Their neighbors were Horace’s sister, Maude, her husband Andrew, and their 12-year-old daughter, Molly. Horace worked as a farm laborer on a general farm, while his father was also engaged in farming. The census enumerator made a note that Horace was unable to read or write.

1920 Census Soundex Card

On April 19, 1930, Horace (aged 33 and single) lived with his parents in a rented home in District 607 of Taliaferro County, Georgia. Horace worked as a haul hunter, seeking out items like antiques or collectibles, likely for resale. His father, now unemployed, was probably retired. Everyone in the household could read and write, including Horace, who had been unable to do so in 1920. Their neighbors were Horace’s sister, Maude, and her family—husband Andrew, widowed daughter Knollie, and seven-year-old granddaughter Estelle. 

Horace married Rosa “Rosie” N. Motes, daughter of Joseph J. Motes and Emma Barnes, on June 21, 1937. Although they did not have children of their own, there was an interesting twist. When Rosa passed away in 1994, her obituary mentioned a son named Walter Lewis. Walter’s 1991 obituary revealed that he was “a son of the late Annaliza Tappan Lewis and Edward Lewis, both of Greene County.” However, it also stated, “Surviving are his mother, Rosa Lankford, Greensboro, Ga.” Was Walter truly Rosa’s son, or was he connected to Horace and Rosa in some other way? I have no details on this situation, so can neither confirm or deny.

On March 9, 1939, Minnie Lankford, aged 71, passed away at her home in Penfield, Greene County, Georgia. Horace, her son, was residing in Penfield at the time. Minnie’s funeral service was conducted by Rev. R. W. Haynie, followed by her burial at Bairdstown Cemetery in Bairdstown, Oglethorpe County, Georgia.

On April 2, 1940, Horace (aged 42) and Rosa (aged 32) resided in the home of Horace’s sister, Maude, and her husband Andrew, at Woodville and Daniel Spring Roads in Union Point, Greene County, Georgia. Also living in the household were Horace and Maude’s widowed father, Charles, and a cousin of Andrew’s named M. D. Adkins. The census enumerator recorded ‘same place’ for everyone in the house when asked about their residence on April 1, 1935, despite Horace’s mother’s 1939 obituary indicating that he lived in Penfield. All occupants were unemployed at the time. Andrew, who worked as a brick mason, had been out of work for 24 weeks and was the only person in the household actively seeking employment. The question of highest grade completed was left unanswered for Horace.

About 1945, Horace relocated to Greensboro in Greene County, Georgia. On July 14, 1947, his father, Charles (aged 81), passed away at home in Shiloh. Charles was laid to rest at Bairdstown Cemetery following a funeral service officiated by Rev. Owen Duvall. The Oglethorpe Echo reported his death on July 24, 1947:

Mr. Charlie Lankford, son of Mr. Curt Lankford of Civil War fame, was buried here (Bairdstown) last Wednesday with the Rev. O.L. Duval officiating. Mr. Lankford was well advanced in age and had been blind for several years. His funeral was well attended by a host of friends and relatives.

On April 12, 1950, Horace and his wife Rosa resided in the home of his sister Maude and her husband, Andrew McElreath, in Penfield. The house was situated along the road from Shiloh Church, heading east and south. Interestingly, this aligns with information provided by another researcher, suggesting that Horace spent some time living in a house adjacent to the Shiloh Baptist Church. Both Horace and Rosa worked as farm hands, likely on the McElreath farm, given that Andrew was a farmer operating his own business. The census records indicate that Horace was living in the same home in 1949. In response to the question about the highest grade of school attended, the enumerator recorded a zero, which, combined with the blank entry in 1940, suggests that Horace may not have received formal education. Horace was unemployed and did not earn any wages in 1949. Furthermore, he did not serve in the military.

On September 23, 1952, Horace’s brother-in-law, Andrew McElreath, passed away at Minnie G. Boswell Hospital in Greensboro. Andrew was laid to rest at Bairdstown Cemetery following a funeral service conducted by Rev. Owen Duvall at Shiloh Baptist Church on September 25. Andrew was deeply cherished by his community, and his death was a significant loss to all who knew him.

Horace, aged 68, passed away at his home in Greensboro on December 21, 1965, following a long illness. He was laid to rest at Bairdstown Cemetery following a funeral service officiated by Rev. O. L. Duvall at Shiloh Baptist Church. His obituary inaccurately recorded the year of his death as 1964. Horace was survived by his wife, Rosa, his sister, Maude, and several extended family members. Within the community, he was well-known and deeply loved. Friends and family frequently visited during his illness, and his absence would be felt by many after his passing.

The year of death on Horace’s tombstone is incorrectly engraved as 1891 instead of 1897. I feel confident that this cannot be accurate, given that the 1900 census recorded his birth month and year as August 1897, with his age listed as two. All other census records align with this birthdate.

If I remember correctly, Horace and Rosa are buried in a family plot alongside Maude and Andrew. Unfortunately stones to the right of Horace’s in the photo below are unreadable, but I feel certain this is the case. After all, Horace and his sister were either living together or next to each other all of their lives.

References

• C. M. Lankford, Dies at Shiloh, newspaper and date unknown.
• Funeral Services Held for Mrs. Rosa N. Lankford, newspaper and date unknown.
• Graveside Services Held in White Plains for Mr. Walter Lewis, The Herald Journal, Greensboro, Georgia, May 31, 1991.
• Horace M. Lankford, Georgia Deaths, 1919–98.
• Horrace M. Lankford, U.S., World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917–1918.
• L. A. McElreath Passes Away, The Herald Journal, Greensboro, Georgia, September 26, 1952.
• Mr. Charlie Lankford, Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, July 24, 1947.
• Mrs. M. W. Langford Passes at Penfield, newspaper and date unknown.
• Personal memories of Crippen Taylor.
• Personal visit to Bairdstown Baptist Church Cemetery.
• Rites for H. M. Lankford, The Herald Journal, Greensboro, Georgia, December 31, 1965.
• U.S. Federal Census, Bowling Green, Oglethorpe County, Georgia, 1900, 1920.
• U.S. Federal Census, Militia District 607, Taliaferro County, Georgia, 1930.
• U.S. Federal Census, Penfield, Greene County, Georgia, 1950.
• U.S. Federal Census, Union Point, Greene County, Georgia, 1940. 

Thomas J. Moore sold Lydia to William Crawford

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records. 

Georgia, Greene County. Know all men by these presents that I, Thomas J. Moore, of the state and county aforesaid for and in consideration of the sum of two hundred dollars, have this day bargained and sold to William Crawford of said state and county one certain negro woman named Lydia and I do for myself and my heirs hereby warrant and forever defend the right and title of said negro woman Lydia to the said William Crawford his heirs and assigns forever against the claim and demand of all other persons whatsoever as witness my hand and seal this 25th August 1815.

Thomas J. Moore

Thomas Crawford Jr.
Georgia, Greene County. It is understood that in case the said Thomas J. Moore shall well and truly pay the said William Crawford the said sum of two hundred dollars with lawful interest thereon within six weeks from the date hereof then this obligation to be void otherwise to remain in full force and virtue as witness my hand and seal this 25th August 1815.

W. Crawford, Witness

Georgia, Greene County. Personally came before me Thomas Crawford Jr. and made oath that he saw Thomas J. Moore sign and deliver the above instrument and that he subscribed thereunto as an evidence at the same time.

Thos. Stocks, J. P.

Tho. Crawford Jr.
Sworn to before me this 7th day of October 1815.

Recorded 6th October 1815
John Bethune, Clk.

Reference

Greene County, Georgia, Deeds, 1810–1811, 1811–1815, 1816–1818, image 405, www.familysearch.org. 

Elijah Major Holland

Elijah Major Holland, the son of John Holland and Elizabeth Hutchinson Majors, was born on May 18, 1829 in Anderson, Anderson County, South Carolina. He was the oldest of 11 children—Elijah Major Holland, Martha L. Holland, Gambrell W. Holland, Martha A. Holland, Leroy Thomas Holland, Caroline Emeline “Emma” Holland, Symantha C. Holland, Miranda Elizabeth Holland, Nancy L. Holland, Samantha Jane Holland, Jane A. Holland, John Louis Holland, Mary M. Holland, George William Perry Holland, and Eliza Amanda Holland, and P. C. Holland. Elijah is my 2nd great grand uncle with our nearest common relatives being his parents. His brother Leroy is my 2nd great-grandfather.

Update 12/16/24: After thoroughly reviewing my research, I have revised the number of children born to John and Elizabeth Holland from 16 to 11. I have crossed out the names of the children that I no longer included in this family. 

On August 16, 1850, the Holland family resided in the Eastern Subdivision of Anderson County. Elijah, aged 21, was a student. His father was a farmer with real estate valued at $1500. His brother Leroy, aged 15, was a farmer. William, the baby of the family at nine months, was enumerated as George W. P. Holland. 

Elijah married Jemima Kay, the daughter of William Strather (or Strother) Kay and his wife, Sarah. Although I have not found a specific marriage record for the couple, I believe that they likely married between 1850 and 1852. In the 1850 census, both Elijah and Jemima were living with their respective parents and the first child was born about 1852. Elijah and Jemima were blessed with seven children: Elizabeth Holland, Sarah Ann Elizira Holland, Doctor Carroll Holland, William Perry Holland, Matilda Armathine Holland, Robert E. Lee Holland, and Anda Holland.

On June 30, 1860, the Holland family resided in Regiment 4 of Anderson County. Elijah, the head of the household, worked as a farmer. His real estate was valued at $550, and he had a personal estate worth $100. The household included three children: Elizabeth, Elzira, and Doctor (enumerated as Carroll). They lived next door to Jemima’s parents.

At the age of 31, Elijah enlisted as a private in Captain William Anderson’s Company J, 4th Regiment South Carolina Infantry Volunteers in Anderson on April 14, 1861. His commitment was to serve South Carolina in the Civil War for a period of one year. He officially mustered in on June 7, 1861, at Columbia, South Carolina. By the close of 1861, Captain Anderson reorganized the company, drawing from the re-enlisted men of the 4th Regiment South Carolina Volunteers at Camp Taylor, near Orange Court House, Virginia. Elijah’s enlistment was extended for two years or until the end of the war, and he now served in Company L of the Palmetto Regiment South Carolina Sharp Shooters.

    

In January 1862, Elijah was admitted to Moore Hospital at General Hospital No. 1 in Danville, Virginia. Subsequently, he was transferred to a General Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. The Palmetto Regiment South Carolina Sharp Shooters, under the command of Maj. J. H. Whitner, mustered into service on March 29, 1862. Elijah’s muster roll records indicate a second enlistment in Richmond on April 16, 1862. During the Battle of Seven Pines at Fair Oaks, Virginia, on May 31, 1862, he sustained a gunshot wound to the thigh. Captured on June 1, 1862, he was admitted to Chesapeake U.S.A. General Hospital at Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia, on June 8, 1862. Records show that he was subsequently sent to Fort Delaware in Delaware on July 15, 1862, and delivered there by an attachment of New York Volunteers on July 16, 1862. Later, Elijah appeared on a list of non-commissioned officers and privates exchanged at Aiken’s Landing on August 5, 1862. Aiken’s Landing, situated on the north bank of the James River south of Richmond, was used for the exchange of Union and Confederate prisoners. His company muster roll recorded Elijah as being at home on wounded furlough during September and October 1862. He rejoined the regiment in November and December 1862 and continued to serve throughout 1863. As the two-year enlistment period concluded, a third re-enlistment took place in Morristown, Tennessee, on January 21, 1864, under Col. Walker. Elijah received clothing in late June 1864 and appeared on the regiment’s muster rolls for July, August, November, and December 1864. He remained present in January and February 1865. Over the course of the war, Elijah likely saw battle at the following:

• Battle of Williamsburg (May 5, 1862)
• Battle of Seven Pines (May 31-June 1, 1862) – he was injured on May 31
• Battle of Campbell's Station (November 16, 1863)
• Battle of the Wilderness (May 5-7, 1864)
• Battle of Spotsylvania Court House (May 9–21, 1864)
• Battle of North Anna (May 23-26, 1864)
• Battle of Totopotomoy Creek (May 28-30, 1864)
• Battle of Cold Harbor (May 31-June 12, 1864)
• Second Battle of Deep Bottom (August 14–20, 1864)
• Second Battle of Ream's Station (August 25, 1864)
• Battle of Darbytown Road (October 27-28, 1864)

Following Lee’s surrender, Elijah received parole at Appomattox Court House, Virginia, on April 9, 1865. His brother, Leroy Thomas Holland, was also present. Leroy had served with Company L, Second South Carolina Rifles, in Jenkins Brigade. Both were lucky to have survived.

The surrender at Appomattox by Louis Mathieu Guillaume,
U.S. National Park Service official website,
public domain; https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=70297414

In 1869, 82 acres of Elijah’s land was forfeited and sold.

In January 1870, Elijah received an appointment as a steward at Masonic Belton Lodge No. 130. As a steward, he assumed responsibilities for managing logistical tasks within the organization, contributing to the smooth functioning of the lodge. His dedication to this role played a crucial part in maintaining the lodge’s operations and fostering a sense of community among its members.

On August 16, 1870, the Holland family resided in the Belton Township of Anderson County, South Carolina. Elijah, then 40 years old, worked as a farm laborer, while his wife Jemima managed the household. He had a personal estate worth $745. Their family included several children:

• Elizabeth and Elzira, both teenagers, were “at home”
• Doctor (aged 13) and Perry (aged 11) worked as day laborers, although neither could read or write
• The youngest children, Armathine (aged 4) and W.P. (only six months old), were also “at home”

Elijah’s brother, William Perry Holland (aged 20), was employed as a day laborer. Jemima, Elijah’s wife, was unable to write.

The Holland family lived just two houses away from Robert and Frances (Holland) King, Elijah’s grand uncle and aunt. Frances was the daughter of Moses Holland, a Baptist minister and a leading citizen in Anderson County who founded numerous churches in the area. He had also served as a drummer during the Revolutionary War and witnessed Cornwallis’ surrender at Yorktown in 1781.

In late December 1870, Elijah received another appointment—this time as a Tiler at the Masonic lodge. In this capacity, he was responsible for guarding the Lodge Room door, ensuring security, and maintaining the solemnity of Masonic rituals.

In July 1873, Elijah made a significant purchase: a Singer sewing machine for Jemima. The Anderson Agency, recognizing the influence of well-known community members, had published a list of endorsements as part of an advertising campaign. Their belief was that the community would trust their judgment and perhaps follow suit in buying similar machines.

Singer sewing machine, The Intelligencer, September 27, 1877

In January 1874, Elijah was appointed treasurer of the newly formed National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry. The Grange, a social organization in the United States, aimed to promote the economic and political well-being of communities and agriculture.

Promotional poster offering a ‘gift for the grangers,’
ca. 1873, Strobridge Lithographing Company, available
from the United States Library of Congress’s Prints and
Photographs division, public domain

In August 1874, Elijah, a friend of Maj. John B. Moore, played a significant role in nominating Moore for the office of Senator in the upcoming election. This act demonstrated both Elijah’s loyalty and his active involvement in local politics. Additionally, Elijah received an appointment to the Executive Committee of the newly organized Broadway Tax Union. The union convened at Neal’s Creek Baptist Church, where they planned to hold their inaugural meeting during an August 14 picnic. At this gathering, Maj. Moore and other speakers would address topics related to the Tax Union. The public, especially the ladies, were cordially invited to attend and encouraged to bring their baskets of food—a combination of civic engagement and social gathering.

Later that year, in October 1874, Elijah assumed the role of treasurer for the newly formed Broadway Division of the Sons of Temperance at Neal’s Creek Baptist Church. The Sons of Temperance were a fraternal group dedicated to promoting abstinence and temperance within society. Their mission extended beyond personal conduct; they also provided support to members and their families, helping them navigate life’s challenges. The Broadway Division consisted of 31 members of the community.

In 1875, Elijah’s appointment as treasurer of the National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry was extended. Additionally, he served as treasurer for the Neal’s Creek Division of the Sons of Temperance, with his appointment extended for the next quarter. A public installation took place at Neal’s Creek Baptist Church on April 10, 1875. The division, consisting of 104 members, continued to extend his appointment for another quarter during a meeting on June 19, 1875. Elijah’s role as treasurer extended into 1876 as well. In February 1876, citizens of Broadway Township organized a Democratic Club at Neal’s Creek Baptist Church, where Elijah was elected treasurer. Their inaugural event was a picnic celebrating George Washington’s birthday, featuring speakers Maj. John B. Moore and E. B. Murray, along with entertainment provided by the Anderson Brass Band. The public was invited to attend, and both the Broadway Division of Sons of Temperance and the Neal’s Creek Grange generously offered the use of their hall for the occasion.

Elizabeth (Major) Holland, Elijah’s mother, passed away on February 27, 1876. It is believed that she was laid to rest in the Math Cobb Cemetery, located across the railroad from the old Holland home place on Pea Creek.

In August 1876, the Hampton Guards, a mounted rifle club, was established at Temperance Hall near Neal’s Creek Baptist Church. Comprising 50 members, the club elected Elijah as treasurer, while his brother Leroy assumed the role of bugler.

In mid-November 1876, the Broadway Democratic Club hosted a basket dinner at Neal’s Creek Baptist Church. The invitation extended to all citizens of the township, regardless of their voting choices in the recent election. The purpose of the gathering was twofold: to express gratitude to those who had cast their votes for Wade Hampton, a Democratic candidate for governor, and to acknowledge those who abstained from voting. The organizers specifically requested that the ladies attend with their baskets well filled, contributing to the communal feast. Elijah and his father, Captain John Holland, played active roles in organizing the event. They were assigned to a committee responsible for coordinating the logistics and ensuring the smooth execution of the dinner. In late January 1877, Elijah resumed his position as an officer within the Broadway Division of the Sons of Temperance. By mid-February 1877, Elijah’s name appeared on a published list of individuals who had voluntarily contributed 10 percent of their earnings to support the Hampton government. 

In early April 1877, the local newspaper reported that a man residing on what was referred to as Elijah’s ‘plantation’ had spent the entire Sunday plowing the fields, believing it was Saturday. It was not until he completed his work for the day that he realized it was, in fact, Sunday. In mid-April 1877, Elijah distributed a sample of his wheat to fellow community members. The wheat, measuring 32 inches in length, was considered a ‘very fine sample,’ leading to the assumption that his crop would yield a substantial harvest that year.

John Holland, Elijah’s father, passed away in Anderson on September 9, 1877. It is believed that he was laid to rest at Math Cobb Cemetery, next to his wife, Elizabeth. John had accumulated a substantial amount of land, and in his will, he directed his sons Elijah, Leroy, and William to choose an impartial individual to divide the land into three equal and equitable tracts. Additionally, John’s personal property was to be sold, with the proceeds distributed among the three sons. However, if any of them perceived that a specific portion of land held greater value than the others, any discrepancies would be rectified using funds generated from the sale of his personal property, which was not explicitly specified in the will. In October 1877, some court action regarding John Holland’s estate was underway, involving Elijah, his sisters Martha, Nancy, and Samantha, and others noted as ‘et al.’ I discovered a document that was an index of Anderson County court records in the unindexed records posted on the Family Search website. The document noted that there were multiple pages within the court records related to John’s estate. Although the document I found included page or record numbers that normally correspond to the actual court records, none of the records are numbered. Typically, I can navigate directly to the specific page noted on an index of this sort and go straight to the record, but not in this case. This task involves a thorough examination of the records, page-by-page, which is a significant undertaking. I have started that process and will set aside time periodically to continue looking. I am very interested in learning more about John Holland, my 3rd great grandfather.

The Intelligencer, Anderson,
South Carolina, October 11, 1877

In July 1878, Elijah gained admission to a newly established division of the Sons of Temperance, part of the Grand Division of South Carolina. Prior to his acceptance, Elijah underwent a credential check to serve as a representative for the local Broadway chapter. The division, named ‘Excelsior, No. 114,’ convened during a summer session in Charleston, South Carolina. It was believed that this new division, along with several existing ones, was embracing positive policies, and the organization’s prospects were looking promising.

In May 1880, Elijah participated in a meeting of the Neal’s Creek chapter of the Anderson Democratic Club. During this gathering, he received an appointment to the executive committee.

On June 28, 1880, Elijah and his family resided in the Broadway Township of Anderson County. Elijah worked as a farmer, tending to his own property. His wife, Jemima, managed the household, ensuring its smooth operation. Their son, William (aged 20), actively contributed to the farm work, sharing the responsibilities. Meanwhile, their daughter, Armathine (aged 16), likely assisted her mother with various household chores. The two youngest children in the household, Robert and Anda, were both attending school. They lived next door to Elijah’s son, Doctor, along with Doctor’s wife Christianna and their daughter Effa.

Elijah’s farm was well-established and thriving. It encompassed 47 acres of tilled land, along with 57 permanent acres dedicated to meadows, pastures, orchards, and/or vineyards. Additionally, there were 15 acres of woodland. The total valuation of the farm was $1200, with farming equipment valued at $50 and livestock at $200. In 1879, Elijah spent $50 on fertilizer. The estimated value of all farm productions amounted to $760. Their livestock included one mule, two milch cows (which produced 100 pounds of butter in 1879), two other cattle, and two calves. Two cows were slaughtered during 1879. The farm also housed five pigs and 56 chickens, which yielded 56 dozen eggs. Elijah cultivated various crops: 20 acres of Indian corn (with a harvest of 250 bushels), five acres of oats (yielding 30 bushels), 10 acres of wheat (producing 135 bushels), and 12 acres of cotton (resulting in eight bales). Additionally, Elijah planted potatoes. The family also cut 25 cords of wood, valued at $12.

On June 24, 1882, Elijah represented the 4th Regiment at a meeting held in the Judge of Probate’s office. The purpose was to organize a survivor’s gathering for soldiers who had served from Anderson County during the Civil War. Scheduled for July 21, 1882, this event coincided with the 21st anniversary of the First Battle of Manassas. The survivor’s meeting proved successful, drawing approximately 3,000 survivors and their families. Bands played, speakers addressed the crowd, and food was shared, creating a memorable occasion.

On August 2, 1883, Elijah received an appointment to a committee responsible for overseeing the cleanup of their churchyard.

On September 10, 1883, Eliza Ann Holland, aged 28 and the daughter of Elijah’s brother Leroy, passed away in Anderson County. Unfortunately, the local newspaper initially misreported her as Elijah’s daughter, but they promptly issued a retraction the following week. Eliza was laid to rest at Neal’s Creek Baptist Church cemetery.

In April 1887, Elijah shared a pocket knife with the newspaper staff. The knife was believed to be a relic of his late father, although Elijah himself was uncertain about the merchant who originally sold it. This knife had been purchased from the first store at Anderson Court House.

On May 14, 1887, Elijah assumed the role of postmaster for the Neal’s Creek post office in Anderson County. His appointment followed the resignation of J. A. Major, Esq. Elijah was known for his cleverness and accommodating approach in managing the post office.

In June 1889, Elijah’s name was drawn to serve as a juror during the upcoming term of court in Anderson County.

In mid-February 1891, Elijah, along with several others in the community, signed a public notice forbidding the public from trading or cashing ‘a note given to J. E. Craig, Agent for the Combination Wire Fence.’ They explicitly stated that they would not assume responsibility for the note, as it had been issued by Mr. Craig under false pretenses.

Leroy, Elijah’s brother, passed away in Beaverdale, Whitfield County, Georgia, on May 4, 1892, due to pneumonia. He found his final resting place at Deep Springs Baptist Church Cemetery in Whitfield County. Leroy’s son, Aaron Hall Holland, believed that his father had worked himself to exhaustion, ultimately leading to his death.

In October 1892, Elijah’s name was drawn to serve as a trial juror during the fall term of court in Anderson County.

In mid-May 1898, survivors from Regiment 4, Company L convened with a specific purpose: to revise the company roll. Unfortunately, many of the original records had been lost or destroyed. However, an original roll list was published in The Anderson Intelligencer, and Elijah’s name appeared on that list.

On June 9, 1899, Elijah’s wife Jemima passed away at their home in Broadway Township. An invalid, she had endured an affliction for several years. Jemima was a respected member of Neal’s Creek Baptist Church, and the following day, she was laid to rest in the church cemetery. Her memory was cherished by numerous family members and friends. Jemima was survived by Elijah and their six children. 

Between 1894 and 1895, Elijah transferred land on Pea Creek in Anderson County to Joseph N. Brown.

On June 12, 1900, Elijah resided with his son Perry and Perry’s family in the Broadway Township. At the age of 71, Elijah worked as a carpenter. Perry, on the other hand, was a farmer. He and his wife Fannie had been married for 16 years. Fannie, a mother of eight children, had six still living at home. Four of these children were attending school, while the youngest two, Willie (aged 4) and Addie (aged 2), were not yet of school age.

On November 8, 1904, Elijah was appointed as one of the three managers from Neal’s Creek Church to oversee elections in Anderson County.

On April 23, 1910, Elijah resided with his son Anda and Anda’s family in the Williamston Township of Anderson County. At the age of 81, Elijah had retired from farming. His son Anda worked as a farmer on a general farm. Anda and his wife Dena had been married for 11 years. The household would have been filled with the joyful sounds of their four grandchildren—Anne, James, Justus, and Joseph.

Elijah’s sister Emeline passed away in Anderson on March 6, 1911. She was laid to rest at the Mullikin Family Cemetery in Anderson. His sister Samantha passed away on October 4, 1914, in Clarkesville, Habersham County, Georgia, following an acute indigestion attack. She found her final resting place at Old Clarkesville Cemetery in the same town. Just over a year later, his brother William (aged 66) took his own life on December 19, 1915 by jumping out a second story window of the Florence, South Carolina infirmary he was being treated at. His death followed years of severe depression. William was buried in the family plot at Mount Hope Cemetery in Florence.

Elijah, aged 87, passed away on July 7, 1916, due to senility in Williamston, likely at the home of his son Anda. The details for his death certificate were provided by Anda. Elijah was laid to rest at Neal’s Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Anderson on July 8. 

   

References

• Aaron Hall Holland letter to Samuel Jackson Holland, May 15, 1964.
• Battle of Seven Pines; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Seven_Pines. 
• Brief Mention, death of Miss Eliza A. Holland, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, October 4, 1883.
• Brief Mention, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, April 5 and 12, 1877.
• Broadway Tax Union, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, August 6, 1874.
• Death Comes Suddenly to Mrs. W. D. Grant-After an Illness of Only a Few Hours One of This City’s Beloved Mothers Passed Away Sunday, newspaper unknown, October 1914.
• Democratic Club, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, February 3, 1876.
• Elijah M. Holland headstone, Neals Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, Anderson, South Carolina.
• Elijah M. Holland, Certificate of Death no. 35864, State of South Carolina, Bureau of Vital Statistics, State Board of Health.
• Elijah M. Holland, the U.S., Selected Federal Census Non-Population Schedules (Agriculture 1880), Broadway, Anderson County, South Carolina.
• Elijah M. Holland, U.S., Appointments of U. S. Postmasters, 1832–1971.
• Elijah M. Holland, U.S., Confederate Soldiers Compiled Service Records, 1861–1865.
• Eureka Items, The Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, April 28, 1887.
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/37853725/caroline_emeline-mullikin: accessed July 8, 2024), memorial page for Caroline Emeline Holland Mullikin (18 Dec 1838–6 Mar 1911), Find a Grave Memorial ID 37853725, citing Mullikin Family Cemetery, Anderson, Anderson County, South Carolina, USA; maintained by James B. Young (contributor 46624588). State of South Carolina, County of Anderson, In the Court of Probate, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, October 11, 1877.
• Find a Grave, database and images (https://www.findagrave.com: accessed 26 February 2021), memorial page for Samantha Jane Holland Grant (12 May 1842–4 Oct 1914), Find a Grave Memorial no. 54786280, citing Old Clarkesville Cemetery, Clarkesville, Habersham County, Georgia, USA; maintained by Joyce DeCoff Winnett (contributor 48122649).
• Find a Grave, database and images (www.findagrave.com/memorial/130529182/william-perry-holland: accessed 11 July 2021), memorial page for William Perry Holland (20 Nov 1849–19 Dec 1915), Find a Grave Memorial ID 130529182, citing Mount Hope Cemetery, Florence, Florence County, South Carolina, USA; maintained by Find a Grave (contributor 8).
• For the Anderson Intelligencer, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, January 15, 1874.
• For the Senate, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, August 6, 1874.
• Grand Mass Meeting, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, November 16, 1876.
• Hampton Guards, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, August 24, 1876.
• John Holland, Will, South Carolina, U.S., Wills and Probate Records, 1670–1980.
• Jump Proves Fatal: William P. Holland Dies from Injuries at Florence, The Greenville News, Greenville, South Carolina, December 23, 1915.
• Local Items, The Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, May 12, 1892.
• Local Matters, Brief Mention, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, January 25, 1877.
• Local News, Brief Mention, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, August 2, 1883.
• Local News, Mrs. Jemima Holland, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, June 14, 1899.
• Local News, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, June 6, 1889 and October 5, 1892.
• Masonic Elections, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, December 8, 1870.
• Masonic, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, January 6, 1870.
• Matilda Holland Geer, Standard Certificate of Death no. 50-016880, Division of Vital Statistics, State Board of Health, State Board of Health.
• Mrs. Jemima Holland, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, June 14, 1899.
• National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Grange_of_the_Order_of_Patrons_of_Husbandry. 
• Neal’s Creek Items, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, May 26, 1887 and November 24, 1887.
• Notice of Election for Representative in Congress and Electors of President and Vice-President, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, November 2, 1904.
• Notice, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, February 19, 1891.
• Palmetto Sharpshooters; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palmetto_Sharpshooters.
• Patrons of Husbandry, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, January 7, 1875 and January 6, 1876.
• Personal visit to Neals Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, Anderson, South Carolina.
• Sale of Forfeited Lands, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, May 23, 1872.
• SINGER! 43 Names Added to the List Within the Last 60 Days!, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, July 3, 1873.
• Sons of Temperance Records, 1844-1967, undated, Phillips Library Finding Aids, Identifier: MSS 215; https://pem.as.atlas-sys.com/repositories/2/resources/559. 
• Sons of Temperance, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, October 22, 1874, April 1, 1875, July 1, 1875, and August 1, 1878.
• State of the Order, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, August 1, 1878.
• Survivors of Co. L, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, May 11, 1898.
• The Anderson Democracy Falling into Line, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, May 13, 1880.
• The Hampton Tax-payers, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, February 15, 1877.
• The Survivor’s Reunion on 21st of July, The Anderson Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, June 29, 1882.
• The Survivor's Reunion, The Intelligencer, Anderson, South Carolina, July 27, 1882.
• U.S. Federal Census, Belton, Anderson County, South Carolina, 1870.
• U.S. Federal Census, Broadway, Anderson County, South Carolina, 1880, 1900.
• U.S. Federal Census, Eastern Subdivision, Anderson County, South Carolina, 1850.
• U.S. Federal Census, Regiment 4, Anderson County, South Carolina, 1860.
• U.S. Federal Census, Williamston, Anderson County, South Carolina, 1910.
• Wade Hampton III; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wade_Hampton_III.  

Membership privileges restored to Caesar

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records.

Sept. 20th, 1863

At a called conference of the colored branch of the church, Caesar, late servant of the late Peter Northern, deceased, and now belonging to Br. A. B. Sharp, was by unanimous vote restored to all the privileges of membership.

U. W. Wise, Mod. Pro. Tem.

Reference

Penfield Baptist Church Minutes: 1839 – 1885, Penfield, Greene County, Georgia, p. 298. 

Edward James Lankford

Born on December 2, 1855, in Oglethorpe County, Georgia, Edward James Lankford was the son of Robert Chester Lankford and Susan “Susie” Elizabeth Brook. Edward is my 1st cousin 4x removed. Our nearest common ancestors are Charles L. Lankford and Miss Moore, my fourth great grandparents.

Edward’s father, Robert, had a complex marital history. His first wife (of three) was Susie whom he married in Oglethorpe County on December 10, 1854. Robert and Susie welcomed four children into the world: Elizabeth Susan Lankford, Edward James Lankford, Charles F. Lankford, and Robert S. Lankford. However, tragedy struck when Elizabeth, born out of wedlock in September 1852, did not survive infancy. She passed away in December 1854, a year before Edward’s birth.

At just three years old, Edward faced another devastating loss. His mother, Susie, died on May 24, 1859, in Oglethorpe County, at the age of 21. Adding to the family’s grief, Edward’s infant brother, Robert, born on April 22, 1859, survived only eight weeks before passing away on June 17. The Daily Constitutionalist documented Susie and Robert’s deaths on July 14, 1859:

Obituary. 

Died, in Oglethorpe county, Ga., on the 24th day of May last, Susan E. Lankford, wife of Robert C. Lankford, and youngest child of Silas and Lebertha Brook, aged twenty-one years.

Deceased was the subject of affliction for several years, which she bore with Christian resignation. She embraced religion when but a girl, and united with the Baptist Church at Baird’s, Oglethorpe county, and lived a devoted Christian until her death. She left an infant child which only lived eight weeks, and two other children, husband, and widowed mother to mourn her loss. For several days previous to her death she gave the brightest and strongest evidence of her acceptance with God. She exhorted husband and friends to meet her in Heaven. Her illness, though short, was severe and painful; but the God whom she loved stood by and supported her in the hour of her trials, and calmly and peacefully she fell asleep in Jesus. J. H. M. 

According to the book Cemeteries of Oglethorpe County, Georgia, Second Edition, published by the Historic Oglethorpe County, Inc. in 2002, the Lankford Family Cemetery in Oglethorpe County is the final resting place for Susie, daughter Elizabeth, and son Robert. Alongside them rest approximately 35 unidentified individuals. 

Notably, Robert’s family added a touching tribute to Susie: she was memorialized on Edward’s father’s obelisk stone at Bairdstown Cemetery after his passing years later.

Less than a year after Susie’s passing, Edward’s father married his second wife, Elizabeth Bennett, on March 4, 1860 in Greene County, Georgia. Robert and Elizabeth welcomed two additional children to the family—William Mell Lankford and John Wesley Lankford. 

On June 16, 1860, Edward and his family resided in Bairdstown, Oglethorpe County, Georgia. His father supported the family working as an overseer. William joined the family in 1861.

Edward’s father, Robert, served as a private in Company E of the 3rd Regiment, Georgia Reserves, under Carswell’s Brigade during the Civil War. In October 1864, Robert suffered a compound fracture of his left knee in a railroad accident near Griffin, Georgia, while being transported to Savannah. His pension application noted that bony deposits in his leg left it substantially and essentially useless.

On July 26, 1870, the Lankford family resided in Maxeys, Oglethorpe County, Georgia. Edward’s father, a farmer, owned real estate valued at $600 and had a personal estate worth $500. His stepmother, originally from Virginia, managed the household. Edward, aged 15 and listed as ‘Eddy,’ worked as a farm laborer and could read but not write. His brother Charles was unable to read or write. A 22-year-old man named William Lankford lived next door, although the exact connection to the family remains uncertain.

At the age of 21, Edward married Nancy “Nannie” T. Reynolds, daughter of William and Cynthia Reynolds, on January 17, 1877, in Greene County, Georgia. The ceremony was officiated by Charles C. Davison, a Notary Public and Justice of the Peace.

The Greensboro Herald documented the marriage as January 16, rather than the 17th.

Edward and Nannie had 12 children: Ethel “Etta” S. Lankford, Roland Lankford, Robert Lankford, James Brook Lankford, Sallie Mae Lankford, Idarene Lankford, Pearl M. Lankford, Ruby Lankford, Cecil Lankford, Thomas Watson Lankford, Sythia E. Lankford, and Edwin John Lankford. Unfortunately, five of their children did not survive infancy.

In November 1879, Edward’s infant son Roland, aged eight months, succumbed to diphtheria. The following year, his son Robert was born and passed away in 1880. Both children were laid to rest at Bairdstown Cemetery in Bairdstown.

On June 3, 1880, Edward, his wife Nannie, and their three-year-old daughter Ethel (enumerated as Etta) resided in Bairdstown. Edward worked as a brick mason, while Nannie managed the household. Edward’s father, stepmother, and two youngest brothers lived next door.

Soundex census card for Edward’s family, 1880

On Christmas Eve in 1883, tragedy struck as Edward’s stepmother, Elizabeth Bennett Lankford, passed away on December 24. She was laid to rest at Bairdstown Cemetery.

In 1886, Edward had a bustling year. He secured a painting job inside Woodville Baptist Church in February. The Georgia Home Journal praised his work, stating that the church would become a ‘model of beauty and finish.’ In mid-February, Edward joined a turkey hunt with Col. Joe Davison, C. D. Durham, and Robert Lankford. While Mr. Durham and Robert successfully bagged turkeys, Edward and Joe playfully wasted their ammunition on robins along the wayside during the return home. By the end of February, Edward found himself unemployed and eager to ‘whitewash the village.’

In March, Edward had another chance at turkey hunting. He joined J. L. Young, Robert Lankford, Hamp McWhorter, and Col. Joe Davison. The group covered 20 miles over five hours, with significant intervals between each turkey kill. In May, Edward took on the task of painting Bairds Baptist Church in Bairdstown, completing it by the end of June with assistance from his sons.

Bairds Baptist Church, Bairdstown, Georgia

Unfortunately, one of Edward’s infants suffered from a severe illness in September 1886, although the specific child remains unknown. Finally, Edward finished painting Mr. B. P. Guill’s home on December 24, just in time for Christmas.

In 1887, Edward’s daughter Idarene was born and tragically passed away. In 1888, Edward’s father married his third wife, Martha A. Bowers, in Westminister, South Carolina. Martha had previously been married to Mr. Brady and John H. Burton, and had two sons, Frank and George Brady. The same year, Edward’s daughter Ruby was born and died. In 1891, Cecil was born and met a similar fate. Idarene, Ruby, and Cecil, along with Roland and Robert, were laid to rest at Bairdstown Cemetery. If you visit the cemetery, you will find all five graves arranged in a single line.

In May 1888, Edward was contracted to paint and plaster the home of W. F. Adkin. In March 1894, he painted the home of Maj. A. T. Brightwell, followed by the new school building in Maxeys in April 1894. In May of the same year, he applied ‘a nice white coat of paint’ to F. D. Gilliam’s home. Later, in September 1894, Edward turned his attention to plastering the Woodstock residence of A. T. Drake.

By May 1896, Edward’s reputation had grown, and he was hailed as ‘one of the best painters in this section of the country’ after painting Mr. S. T. Gillen’s home in Maxeys. In January 1897, he tackled T. B. Bailey’s residence. Finally, in May 1899, Edward began work on Mamie Downer’s home on Railroad Street, starting with a primary coat of paint and returning in June to apply the finishing touches.

In March 1900, Edward was contracted to perform work for Judge W. M. Brook. On June 1, 1900, Edward and his family resided in Woodville, Greene County, Georgia. Edward worked as a house painter, while his daughter Ethel held a position as a music teacher, and his son James labored on the railroad. At this point in their lives, Edward and Nannie had celebrated 23 wedding anniversaries. Nannie had given birth to 12 children, of whom 7 were still living. Interestingly, their son Edwin was enumerated as Edward Jr., although this is the only instance where I have seen that designation. Edward owned his home, and both he and Nannie, along with Ethel, James, Sallie, and Pearl, were able to read, write, and speak English. Sallie, Pearl, and Thomas were all attending school. My second great-grandparents, James C. Lankford and Mary Ann (Wilson) Lankford, along with their family, lived just seven houses away. In September 1900, Edward visited Peter in Daltonville. Peter had previously resided in Bairdstown. Later that year, in November, Edward was working in Maxeys, ‘making old things look new.’

In January 1901, Edward, along with several others, including his daughter Ethel, attended a New Year’s Day dinner hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Peter Dalton. Two weeks later, he spent an evening with Peter. Edward revisited Peter’s Daltonville home in August 1901. Later that year, in November, he painted the Stephens home of Ned Young.

On April 9, 1902, Edward’s stepmother, Martha, passed away. She was laid to rest at Bairdstown Cemetery. The Oglethorpe Echo documented her death on April 18, inaccurately listing her as ‘Mrs. R. T. Langford:’ 

Bairdstown (news), Mrs. R. T. Langford, “The Oglethorpe Echo,” Crawford, Georgia, April 18, 1902. —Died, on the 9th of this month, Mrs. R. T. [sic] Langford, in the fifty-eighth year of her age. She was a faithful member of Center church. The funeral services were conduced [sic] by Rev. Mr. Bowden, of Winterville. The services were held at Bairds church and her remains were laid to rest in Bairdstown cemetery. She was a truly noble woman in many ways. She leaves a host of relatives and friends who truly mourn her death.

In May 1902, Edward and his brother dedicated a month to painting the town of Maxeys. While Edward typically used white paint, this time he opted for red. Perhaps he was working on a barn. In addition to his painting skills, Edward was a brick mason and contractor. In July 1902, he ventured to Watson Springs, just outside of Greensboro, where he crafted a cement rock basin and made other improvements. Watson Springs, known for its spring with what is believed to be curative properties, had several log cabins on the property and a ferry nearby for crossing the Oconee River.

By April 1903, Edward had turned his attention to the Maxeys home of J. E. Marable. He continued his work in Maxeys through June 1903, even taking on some whitewashing tasks for Mamie Downer.

Edward’s father, Robert, passed away in Oglethorpe County on December 15, 1909. He was laid to rest at Bairdstown Cemetery. Interestingly, there appears to be a discrepancy in Robert’s death date. While his tombstone bears the December 15 date, an application submitted by Edward for a Pension Due to a Deceased Pensioner on January 1, 1910, lists the death date as December 19. Unfortunately, no other records have been found to confirm the date.

On April 18, 1910, Edward and his family resided on Woodstock Road in Woodville. Edward owned the home, which was classified as a farm and free and clear. His occupation was that of a farmer on a general farm. Both Sallie and Pearl worked as schoolteachers, although Sallie had been out of work for 24 weeks. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Thomas worked as a farm laborer on the home farm. Everyone in the household was able to read and write. Edward and Nannie had now been married for 34 years. Interestingly, the Lankford home was just five houses away from Charles C. Davison, the man who officiated their marriage in 1877. Their daughter Ethel, now married but seemingly seeking a divorce, had returned home. Although she was enumerated as being married for four years and having one child, neither the child nor her husband lived there. I did find her husband living in Farmington, Oconee County, Georgia, listed as widowed (which was not the case), but there was no one-year-old boy residing in the home.

The mystery surrounding Ethel’s family led me to delve into the details. It appears that her husband, Weldon Branch, grappled with a drinking problem. Along with divorce proceedings, Ethel also sought alimony, which was granted in 1912 for her and her son, James L. Branch. Interestingly, there was a condition attached: if Weldon agreed to abstain from alcohol, maintain sobriety for five months, and reconcile with Ethel, he would be exempt from paying alimony. Fast forward to Ethel’s 1937 obituary, which identifies her as the wife of Weldon Branch. It seems they worked things out and were able to remain married but Edward and Nannie were there to support Ethel in her time of need.

It seems that Edward’s father, Robert, did not leave a will, but there’s evidence suggesting that Edward was named an administrator. In November 1910, Edward, along with William L. Lankford, C. K. Lankford, and J. W. Lankford, participated in the sale of his father’s land—a substantial 203½ acres in Bairdstown.

Edward’s grandson, James L. Branch, passed away on January 4, 1913, under circumstances that remain unknown to me. James was laid to rest at Woodville Cemetery.

On January 2, 1920, Edward and his family resided in a home he owned, free and clear, on Augusta Street in Woodville. Three adult children remained in the household: Ethel (now single), Pearl, and Sythia (enumerated as Seythy). Edward balanced his time between brick masonry work and farming. Ethel took charge of housekeeping for her mother, while both Pearl and Sythia worked as teachers in public schools. Everyone in the home was able to read and write.

Interestingly, they lived next door to Mollie Durham, whose daughter, Annie May Durham, was also a schoolteacher. The mention of Annie May Durham brings back memories for me—my Daddy often spoke about her. In fact, she was one of the teachers who shared the story with him: the alleged rape of Alice Beman Lankford by Thomas P. Janes Jr., which resulted in the birth of my grandfather, Carroll Harvey Lankford.

Edward passed away on April 9, 1924, in Woodville, Greene County, Georgia, due to diuretic poisoning, which was further complicated by Bright’s Disease. Diuretic poisoning occurs when the kidneys produce an excessive amount of urine. 

Edward, by all accounts, was a devout Christian and a man of unwavering integrity. As one of the first settlers in Woodville, he established himself in the hearts of the community—a place he held until the end of his life. Edward actively contributed to the well-being of the town, supporting the school and demonstrating loyalty to his neighbors. His commitment extended to the Woodville Baptist Church, where he played a vital role as a charter member. Despite facing health challenges, including a paralytic stroke, Edward remained patient and steadfast. He left a legacy of resilience and Christian fortitude for all who knew him. Edward was survived by his wife Fannie, sons James, Thomas, and Edwin, and daughters Ethel, Sallie, Pearl, and Sythia. He was laid to rest at Woodville Cemetery. 

Fannie was interred beside him upon her passing a decade later.

References

• Bairdstown (news), Mrs. R. T. Langford, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, April 18, 1902.
• Brought by Mail: From the Different Sections of Oglethorpe County, Maxeys Matters, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, May 18, 1894 and January 22, 1897.
• Cemeteries of Oglethorpe County, Georgia, Second Edition, Historic Oglethorpe County, Inc., 2002.
• Correspondence, Neighborhood News Notes We Put in Pickle, Woodville, Georgia Home Journal, Greensboro, Georgia, May 28, 1886.
• Correspondence, Out Busy News Gatherers Who Never Tire, Woodville, Georgia Home Journal, Greensboro, Georgia, March 19, 1886.
• Correspondence: Neighborhood News Notes We Put in Pickle, Woodville (news), Georgia Home Journal, Greensboro, Georgia, May 28, 1886, June 25, 1886, September 10, 1886, and December 24, 1886.
• Correspondence: Our Busy News Gatherers Who Never Tire, Georgia Home Journal, February 26, 1886.
• Correspondence: Our Busy News Gatherers Who Never Tire, Georgia Home Journal, Greensboro, Georgia, February 12, 1886.
• Correspondence: Our Busy News Gatherers Who Never Tire, Woodville (news), Georgia Home Journal, Greensboro, Georgia, February 26, 1886.
• Death of E. J. Lankford Recently at Woodville, newspaper and date published unknown.
• Diuresis: What You Need to Know About Increased Urine Production, Healthgrades; https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/kidneys-and-the-urinary-system/diuresis. 
• Divorce Refused by Greene County Jury, Atlanta Georgian, Atlanta, Georgia, July 30, 1913.
• E. J. Lankford (for R. C. Lankford), Application for Pension Due to a Deceased Pensioner, January 1, 1910.
• Edward James Lankford, Standard Certificate of Death no. 12033, Georgia State Board of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics.
• Edward James Lankford’s tombstone, Woodville Cemetery, Woodville, Greene County, Georgia.
• From Our Correspondents, Daltonville, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, September 14, 1900, January 4, 1901, and January 18, 1901.
• From Our Correspondents, Maxeys Matters, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, July 25, 1902.
• From Our Correspondents: The County Localized by Communities, Daltonville, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, August 2, 1901.
• From Our Correspondents: The County Localized by Communities, Maxeys Matters, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, May 9, 1902 and April 3, 1903.
• From Our Correspondents: The County Localized by Communities, Stephens Atoms, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, November 22, 1901.
• Happenings About Maxeys, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, May 12, 1899.
• Important Cases—Oconee Alimony Case, The Weekly Banner, Athens, Georgia, January 26, 1912.
• Married, The Greensboro Herald, Greensboro, Georgia, January 26, 1877.
• Maxeys Matters, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, March 23, 1894, April 27, 1894, May 22, 1896, June 2, 1899, and June 19, 1903.
• More Correspondence, Maxeys Matters, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, November 2, 1900.
• Mrs. Ethel Langford Branch, Certificate of Death no. 29324, Georgia Department of Public Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics, 1937.
• Mrs. W.L. Branch Passes at Bishop, Athens Banner Herald, Athens, Georgia, May 16, 1937.
• Notice, The Athens Banner, Athens, Georgia, November 10, 1910.
• Obituary (Susan E. Lankford), The Daily Constitutionalist, Augusta, Georgia, July 14, 1859.
• Personal visit to Bairdstown Cemetery, Bairdstown, Oglethorpe County, Georgia.
• R. C. Langford, Disabled Soldier's Pension, 1903.
• R. Lankford, Bairdstown and Falling Creek, Oglethorpe, Georgia, U.S. Federal Census Mortality Schedules, 1850–1885.
• Stephens Atoms, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, March 9, 1900.
• Susie Brooks Lankford’s tombstone, Bairdstown Cemetery, Bairdstown, Oglethorpe County, Georgia.
• Through the Mails: From Different Sections of Oglethorpe County, Antioch, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, May 4, 1888.
• Through the Mails: From Different Sections of Oglethorpe County, Bairdstown, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, April 6, 1888.
• U.S. Federal Census, Bairdstown, District 232, Oglethorpe County, Georgia, 1880, 1900.
• U.S. Federal Census, Bairdstown, Georgia Militia District 228, Oglethorpe, Georgia, 1860.
• U.S. Federal Census, Dirt Town Valley, Chattooga County, Georgia, 1860.
• U.S. Federal Census, Farmington, Oconee County, Georgia, 1910.
• U.S. Federal Census, Maxeys, Oglethorpe County, Georgia, 1870.
• U.S. Federal Census, Woodville, Greene County, Georgia, 1900, 1910, 1920.
• Watson Springs, Georgia Historical Society; https://www.georgiahistory.com/ghmi_marker_updated/watson-springs/. 
• Woodstock, The Oglethorpe Echo, Crawford, Georgia, September 21, 1894. 

Rachel and Sandy, servants to John Branch and T. G. Janes

This post is part of an ongoing project to record names of enslaved people of Greene County, Georgia I find in historical records. 

Shiloh Baptist Church Minute Extracts 

Shiloh, 30th May 1840

Church met in conference for the benefit of the blacks. Brother William Geer, moderator, opened a door for the reception of members when Rachel, servant to Captain John Branch, came forward and after relating her experience, was received into the church. Brother E. C. Shackelford stated he had written to Virginia as directed by the church relative to Sandy, servant to Brother T. G. Janes, but had not received any answer. The case continued, no other business presented, conference adjourned.

E. C. Shackelford, Church Clerk

Sabbath morning, July 5th, 1840

Brother John Harris administered the ordinance of Baptism when Rachel, servant to Captain John Branch, was baptized.

E. C. Shackelford, Church Clerk

Reference

Church records, 1839-1859, Greene County, Georgia, Shiloh Baptist Church Records, images 30–31 of 122; https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-C34J-3QD4?cat=193117 (free registration required).