ye ee ee rd anaes | ioe Qo Bes Ae be Oy ROB E'S:OiN \ | | i | ef sip ar apna tenn peter de ner tc emer te | we creer mee rte Seto ane ae a meer armen mm tt te SP tee et Ts RM ee fe The State of Robeson “As You Love Your State Hold Robeson” by ROBERT C. LAWRENCE of the Lumberton Bar oP LUMBERTON, NORTH CAROLINA 1939 Fr 262 4 COPYRIGHT, 1939, BY - ¢ Wie, ROBERT C. LAWRENCE Ag L. AQ PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BY J. J. LITTLE AND IVES COMPANY, NEW YORK anergy SRR ATEN pores PREOPERATIVE LSE LN LOL LOL TORI REGEN OLLI SELF NOLL ANY OTE TONE LI CRIN LEE DE OTE a» ] OG . ws ee ae mentees jae 4 ' TO THE BAR OF ROBESON COUNTY so frequently mentioned in the following pages THIS BOOK IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED BY THE AUTHOR Lumberton, March 1939 cn. Sees CONTENTS BUILDERS OF ROBESON COUNTY ' BumLpers or RoBeson COUNTY Builders of Red Springs Builders of Maxton Builders of Rowland j Builders of Fairmont . Builders of Barnesville, Marietta, McDonalds . Builders of St. Pauls—Parkton : i Builders of Lumber Bridge—Pates . | Builders of Robeson—Finally . SOME INCIDENTS IN ROBESON HISTORY THe Minutes oF Aspury CHURCH . THE VALLEY OF THE LUMBER THE Gop BLEsseD Macs . SomME ANECDOTES OF WILTON MCLEAN . et ence Reap mnceraga atonement ROBESON AND THE ADOPTION OF THE CONSTITUTION - AN OUTLINE OF THE RoBESON CouNTY Bar .- Memories oF BENCH AND BAR—IN LIGHTER VEIN . | Tue Famous PEEBLES CONTEMPT CASE {. An Episope in NorTH CAROLINA History . Roseson INSTITUTE - } SomE RoBEsON COMPANIES IN THE CiviL WAR . St. ALBAN’s Lopce No. 114 AT LUMBERTON . b Losr Cotony or Sir WALTER RALEIGH . f Tue Lowrie OuTLAws OF ROBESON ; SuBLIME Tosacco . Far gad [ vii ] Organization of the County and of the Town of Lumberton . PAGE 22 27 29 31 33 35 39 45 47 52 54 57 60 81 88 We 97 100 106 111 115 122 | SSR cena | DISTINGUISHED ROBESONIANS H Governor ANnGUs WiLTON McLEAN . ... . . . . . . . 199% REVEREND Cuartrs H. DurHAM, D.D.. . . . . . . . .°. 187 ; RicHarp Ruopes BARNES»... 1 1 1. ew yw ww IRENNETH (MS BIGGS (10200 Cr enscnisis okey ound ct anak: ean a REV. WM. BLACK yD Deis sd) yee os ein an kaa BUILDERS OF | ROBERT SD) CALDWELL shite al cians paler ar geese tains tastes cee taal Bim | JOHN | BETHUNE? CARLYLE cers eens oie s hg i en ee ROBESON HISTORY | Reeve, Ue Ree EDGPETE a fey Path ius) whee ota ordre liane OP | PREV el PLADBER TN: Grey ALCL DDD) fas 20 stl ay cee sete eet De DHOMAS' G.S JOHNSON ct 2 3h rine ee CO te ae MANGUS } . Carre WILLIAM S.: NORMENT! (2514 4.0 Win eae ates Patri = he hoor é | HD) Rie GEORGERM PATE ura ote aromas aa nee Ch al neu a te 233 Beit | Grrberr. B. PATTERSON 2) 2.000) Ute is oe eg wt ee atm Epwarp Knox Proctor as A PROHIBITIONIST. » . . . .. . 243 : | COu-@ALFRED “ROWLANDS: $5 ssc a Gh cee adn a ae RE 249 Me FRIGHARD LOWNSEND 3 Gi cdereg votive sac cg tees eine een ee 253 r Reve" CHARLES! G7, VARDELL, Dita ne cae) ee eee ts 258 AARON? W ELNSTEING: of deca icige tay oe ea oa ture Ua, Sie nar saya) 20 WILLIAM CLIFTON: WISHART oil Gein) Ciena oe ne ate Mee tia eeere - 269 | OBITUARIES : | SIMEON? Fs GALDWELU! 4c go8 4 5 0r Co ai) 7 A Nar tan nen eon ae | Cuarves B. SKIPPER PER ACOA eI ian hahha Rem RuG NETS Psi te hie LL: 4 [ viii ] SEI tray tpn ro BUILDERS OF ROBESON COUNTY Organization of the County and of the Town of Lumberton ROBESON COUNTY was formed from Bladen in 1786, and was named in honor of Colonel Thomas Robeson, revolutionary soldier and patriot, who lived at Tar Heel in Bladen county, and whose descendants still occupy their ancestral acres. His grave, near the banks of Cape Fear, was recently marked by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Josiah Barnes was the first clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions, the court of general jurisdiction which corresponded to what is now the Superior Court. Samuel Porter was the first high Sheriff of the county. There was no register of deeds, as deeds were then proved in open court and registered by the Clerk. The original minute book of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions _ has been taken to the Hall of History in Raleigh for | Preservation. John Willis (of whom more will be said later) was the first Senator from Robeson, serving four terms. Elias _ Barnes (of whom more later) and Neill Brown from the _ Philadelphus section were the first members of the House _ of Commons, as the House of Representatives was then _ known. When Wheeler’s History was published in 18p1, all _ it said of Robeson county was that the Honorable Edward _ Harris, of Newbern, one of the Superior Court Judges, died at Lumberton in 1813, and was buried there. His [3] grave can still be seen in Meadowbrook, where his remains were reinterred from the old cemetery near the depot on eciphered it, after then had the code poem published and d to any schoolchild who would decipher $30.00, as six of them did—promptly! ) In 1787, General John Willis, then Senator from Robe- - son, owned a large farm known as Red Bluff Plantation upon the banks of Lumber River, which was then known as Drowning Creek, and still retains that mame in its upper portion. At a Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions held on May 12, 1787, General Willis submitted to the | court a proposition for laying out on his lands a town to be called “Lumberton.” He proposed to give the town a_ Square upon which to locate its public buildings, together j with a town “common,” and suggested that the other lots _ be sold through a lottery to be conducted by managers under the supervision of the court. His proposition was accepted, and William T atham, Henry Lightfoot, Elias” Sampson Bridgers were named _ some difficulty, offered a rewar it. It cost him formalities, in the Presence of the court, beginning on August 16th, 1787. The original book containing the names of those who drew the lots, the numbers of the lots drawn, and the original lottery tickets, were in the pos- session of the late James D. Proctor, and are, no doubt, unfortunate that his intimate knowledge of its past has not been preserved for posterity. [4] Altho the town was established in 148¥, it was not until 1794 that a postoffice was established, John Noyes being the first postmaster appointed by President Washington. He was the first postmaster in Robeson County. The Office at Alfordsville was the second to be established. Much of our early history has disappeared in the haze of obscurity. Even the old minute books of the town Commissioners cannot be located. However, I have been at some pains to secure as complete a list as possible of the legislative acts relating to the town, and in this task have had the generous assistance of Hon. Henry M. London, Legislative Reference Librarian, to whom I am indebted ° for much of the information concerning these facts. Listed in the order of their enactment, the statutes are: (a). Chapter 40, laws of 1786 created the county of Robeson, and by section six thereof John Willis, Patrick Travis, Elias Barnes and Alexander McNeal were named 2s Commissioners to select a site for the county seat. ‘They located the site on the Red Bluff plantation of General Willis, as above set forth. (b). Chapter 49, laws of 1788 incorporated the town of Lumberton. This act recited that a town had already been established and that John Willis, former owner of the land, had conveyed to Henry Lightfoot and the four other lottery managers above named, a tract of land for the townsite, which lands were to be sold by a lottery. he deed from General John Willis to the lottery man- 48ers is registered in book “A’-1 at page 60. iy (c). Chapter 47, laws of 1794 provided that the citizens of Lumberton should meet each year and elect five “Direc- tors.” These “Directors” were given authority to select the town officers. From 1794 to 1850—a gap of 56 years, we nd nothing relating to the town. (d). Chapter 322, laws of 1850 provides that the Sheriff [5] i : 4 _ of Lumberton was laid off upon his lands. He was evi- of Robeson should hold an election each year for the elec tion of a Magistrate (Mayor) and four commissioners. (e) . Chapter 211, laws of 1852 provided that until theit successors are elected, Robert E. Troy should serve as Magistrate; and Edward Lewis, Sr., W. W. Gunn, John M. Hartman and R. S. French as Commissioners. Thesé are the earliest town officers whose names I have been able to locate. Robert E. Troy was a prominent Lumber- ton lawyer, Master of St. Alban’s Lodge A. F. & A. M. Robert S. French was a grand-uncle of Duval D. French, prominent Lumberton citizen. (f). Chapter 103, laws of 1866-67. (g). Chapter 71, laws of 1868. (h). Chapter 42, laws of 1869. (i). Chapters 7 and 108, laws of 1873. (j). Chapters 89 and 292, laws of 1883. (k) . Chapter 160, laws of 1889. (1). Chapter 131, laws of 1891. (m) . Chapter 366, laws of 1893. (n). Chapter 215, laws of 1899. (0). Chapters 334, 386, 241, 244, laws of 1905. (p)- Chapter 343, private laws of 19047. This is the re vised and consolidated charter of the town, pre pared by the writer when he was town attorney. (q). Chapters 314 and 276, laws of 1911. (r). Chapter 54, extra session 1913. (s). Chapters 229, 241 and 345, laws of 1915. II In Ashe’s History of North Carolina, volume 2, page 84, it is stated that General John Willis (father of Lum berton) was a soldier in the Revolution; a lawyer; civil engineer; a planter and mill owner; and that the town [6] Gc and he sery . C dently a General of Militia, as there is no record of a “neral of that name in the Revolutionary army. He also “tablished an academy in Lumberton about 1791, the Principal of which was Rev. David Kerr. Mr. Kerr was the first chairman of the faculty of the University of North Carolina, serving as such prior to the election of Joseph Caldwell as its first president. Mr. Kerr moved ‘o Lumberton where he studied law and was admitted s 0 the Bar, later removing to Mississippi, where he be- a a Federal Judge. He was a graduate of Trinity Ollege of Dublin (Ireland) University. After the establishment of Lumberton, General Willis Sold most of his remaining lands to Jacob Rhodes and - TeMoved to Fayetteville where he died. Jacob Rhodes, a surveyor by profession, and one of the ve commissioners named to conduct the lottery when umberton was first established, surveyed the original Own-site in 1786. This original map was in the possession fo) : 5 : f the late James D. Proctor, and is now in the possession of the law firm of Varser, McIntyre and Henry. _ Elias Barnes was evidently a man of great influence im. early Lumberton. He was one of the committee to Select the county seat; he was one of the commissioners Who laid off the town of Lumberton; he was one of the first members from Robeson in the House of Commons ed several terms in the Senate. He, with John ade (son-in-law of the famous Dr. Robin Adair) became q sureties on the bond of an early sheriff of Robeson and _ Petitioned the legislature not to sell them out. cleo Rhodes sold the mill near Lumberton (which ee belonged to General Willis) to Col. Thomas J. Mor- nos whose ancestors came from Cork, Ireland. He mar- 4 grand-daughter of Colonel Richard Clinton, for ie | i whom the town of Clinton was named. This mill was known for a century as the Morrisey Mill, but is now known as ““McMilla of the oldest graveyards in Rhodes, Penelope, widow of and many of the Morrisey’s, prominent Robesonians of a pa have been re-interred in Me others yet remain in the ancie Like everything in nature, t silently to rest” and the knows them no more. Colonel Richard Clinton, Rowland’s, Blount’s and st age. Many of the bodies adowbrook Cemetery, but nt cemetery. ; hey have “one by one crept place that knew them once, now “The seasons chan The grass of yeste Peoples disappear t ; ge; the winds they shift and veer, ryear is dead. Empires dissolve, i - God passes not away.” . a 4 >. n’s Mill.” Near this ancient mill is oné Robeson. Here is buried Jacob is ti i vocatin tion and was a century ahead of his time ie ae the conservation of natural resources. He we d where he wrote a number of pamphlets ae rene flowers, which are preserved in the archives rekeeper of He returned to this country and beens os uicide by the arsenal at Richmond, Va. He committe oF the act throwin g himself in front of a cannon as it was of being fired. ut £ Let us look for a moment at some of the ala ay a former day who influenced the life of their tow - Country: Col. Neill Archie McLean, Sr., was for reli an Outstanding lawyer, but is probably i syle Posterity as the father of his brilliant son, ° ° ee McLean, Jr., who led the Robeson Bar unti Ese in 1911. A sketch of Col. McLean appears in 7 ze re Part of this book. The present law firm of ee ae Stacy can trace their legal ancestry back to the Mcl, : i as oe was another outstanding ee ae ’nte-bellum period, and under the act of 1 ease before referred to, was named as Mayor of Lum e co . Giles Leitch was another of the legal pioneers He eo 2 large part in the affairs of his generation. er i ur in the stone building which formerly stood a de mai of 4th and Chestnut streets. He was the eee precep and later the partner of Col. Alfred Salo ay J udge Robert S. French, a first cousin of Judg cea Strange, of Fayetteville, (for whom he was sobe : i ‘Nother eminent lawyer of his day. His office was i ee Toom wooden building which formerly stood in a . ee the residence of Governor Angus W. McLean a [9] 4 { i j corner of 5th and Chestnut. Later it was used as the law offices of McNeill and McNeill, (Judge Thomas A.., and his cousin, Franklin, chairman of the Corporation Cont mission) and Stephen McIntyre used the building as 4 residence when he first moved to Lumberton. By the acl of 1850, above referred to, Judge French was named a one of the town commissioners. In 1860 he was appointed by Governor Ellis as Superior Court Judge, and filled that office with ability until 1865, when he was removed by thé Federal military power, following the surrender of Leé and the downfall of the Confederacy. He then moved t0 Wilmington where he practiced with Judge S. R: Person: He died in 1882. While Charles Payne did not live in Lumberton, hé should be here mentioned. His home was on the road from Lumberton to Maxton, near Alma, where his office was a small wooden building in the yard of his residencé: A daughter married Judge Cameron MacRae. : Abner Nash, while not a practitioner in the courts, wai especially skilled in the drafting of legal documents and in the abstracting of titles. He knew more about land titles than any man in the county, and was for manj years employed in the office of the Register of Deeds He was a descendant of the famous Nash family, of Hills boro, numbering among its members General Francis Nash, killed in the Revolution, Governor Abner Nash and Chief Justice Frederick Nash. He married a daughter of the beloved Dr. Richard Lewis, whose ministry of healing is still remembered by a few of our older people. Hi widow yet survives, with his children. i Franklin McNeill was a distinguished lawyer, not only of Lumberton, but of the State. He practiced in partner ship with his cousin, Judge Thomas A. McNeill, latef removing to Rockingham, where he became the Solicitol 2407] ; of that Judicial District. Later he became the first chair- man of the North Carolina Corporation Commission, and had much to do with shaping the policy of the State in legislation relating to railroads and other public utility companies. IV 2 It is extremely difficult to locate with accuracy informa- tion concerning the leaders of Lumberton life during the first half century of its existence, which fact is in itself a Striking commentary upon the transitory quality of hu- man effort. We have, however, been able to secure meager data on certain outstanding individuals. James Blount was an important figure in the life of early Lumberton. He accumulated a large estate and Owned large tracts of farm land and much town property. His only child, Emily, married the late Alexander H. Mc- Leod, ancestor of the present generation of Lumberton McLeods, among his children being George B. McLeod, Sheriff and Senator; Alexander H. McLeod (Sandy) and A. H. McLeod (Alf) . William B. Blount, altho not a citizen of Lumberton, was a large figure in his day and three of his daughters married prominent Lumberton men: Susan married Col. Alfred Rowland; Amanda married Thomas A. Norment, Sr., and Penelope married H. McE. McMillan. He owned a large part of the land on both sides of the Fayetteville toad on which the residential part of Lumberton is located. The Wishart family has long been prominent in the life of Lumberton. Col. Eli Wishart was Colonel of Militia Prior to the Civil War and represented Robeson in the legislature of 1860. His son, Captain Wellington Wishart, was Captain of a militia district. Wishart’s township is named in his honor. He was also an officer in Company C11] i. “A” 46th North Carolina, in the Confederate service. Hi- brother, Captain Frank M. Wishart, Captain of Compatl “B” 46th North Carolina, was killed by the outlaw, Hentl Berry Lowry. Wellington Wishart was a noted survey of his day and served as county surveyor for a number 0 years. He was the father of our townsmen W. S. (‘‘C’) Wishart, John H. Wishart and Frank H. Wishart. | James T. Petteway was a leading ante-bellum merchall and man of affairs. As our people had no money and ever} thing had to be bought on credit, he operated the leadint “time” business of the section. As there was no bank i the county, and as he was a man of known probity, ht acted as private depository for such funds as many of th! people possessed. John H. Caldwell was another large merchant antl prominent citizen of his day who left a permanent impre# upon the life of our county. He numbered among hi children the late Luther H. Caldwell (outstanding citi zen) , Ambrose P. Caldwell (Mayor of Lumberton) , ant John H. Caldwell. The writer has seen a grant from Kin} George III, of England, covering lands in Robeson not owned by the heirs of Mr. Caldwell. This grant was signed by Richard Caswell, who became the first Governor North Carolina under the Constitution, and in whos honor Caswell County was named. Vv Lumberton has indeed been fortunate in its citizens d foreign birth or descent, particularly those of Germal extraction, notably William Linkhauer (father of the lat’ W. I. Linkhaw and others) ; Christopher von Glahn, od Hanover, Germany, (father of the late Mrs. John Hw Wishart and others); G. E. Rancke, .(father of the sof of that name); Dr. Rudolph Vampill, (father of the lat’ [12] Mrs. W. W. Carlyle) ; the Wessell family, and Arthur C. Melke, of Leipsic, Germany. Arthur C. Melke came to Lumberton as a youth and began his remarkable career as clerk in a local store. His integrity, frugality and business sagacity was such that e soon acquired his own store and laid the foundation fo) what became the leading business of this section. He ac- quired a large estate and was known for his charitable disposition, and his willingness to assist and support any cause which he believed worth while. He was a brother-in- law of the late W. I. Linkhaw and of the late Frank Gough, and the business success achieved by them was largely due to the influence of Mr. Melke. C. B. Skipper, W. O. Thompson, and other prominent citizens of Lum- berton were once employed by him. He was an early and loyal supporter of Robeson Institute, and in his will gave generous benefactions to that institution, and to the Bap- tist State Convention, Wake Forest College, Baptist For- eign Mission Board, and the institution now known as Meredith College. His will, written in his own handwrit- ing, but prepared by the late Edward K. Proctor, will be inspirati i i ad -an inspiration to anyone who will take the time to re it. It was witnessed by Robert D. Caldwell, John H. Mc- Neill, Dr. Richard M. Norment and John H. Morrison. Mr. Melke died in 1891, within sixty days after the execu- tion of his will, lamented by the entire town. He left no descendants. The name of Berry Godwin looms large in any sketch of Lumberton, He was a native of Johnton county, but removed to Lumberton, where he engaged in the turpen- tine business, in merchandising, and in farming upon a large scale. He owned literally thousands of acres of farm lands and a considerable part of the town of Lumberton. He owned the land on which the First Baptist Church was [13] ; Alex P. McAllister, ; : . Jo, McAllister, (hardware merchant) aa the late John and the land on which Robeson Institute was 4 (organizer of the National Cotton a Charles P. Mc as well as an entire block adjacent to the cou D. McAllister; Hugh M. McAllister house square, and man other valuable lots. He als? ‘ ; e, y ae -og| Allister. conspicuous in at is now Meadowbrook Cemetery, and is burie ent has long been G The name of Norm the notables of that grandfather of the late George F the annals of Robeson County, among hysician; ‘Captain garet French McLean, widow 0 Name being Richard M. Norment, p is Norment and 2 eae Wilton ae See William §. Norment, lawyer, and Owen C. ‘r +1. McLeod was another of ¢ e fathers Thomas A. Norment, business men. : a on whose influence still abides. A native of Mooré AN ica: chiang OY a Yr part of this OL sician and politician, will be found in another p activities, among which was the large book erate : Ae h ot Captain William S. Nena aes ee € senior member of the firm. His talent soldier, and prominent lawyer, will also be fo such that he rapidly acquired a large other part of this book. : iano moet: was once said that when Lumberton Owen C. Norment was the senior hae ing Thomas Norment and Company, the other partners Se ete erry Godwin that it came through AGN osmentand Berry Godwin. He was ee SHdbOk the ned a large part of the land within nal directors of the Lumberton Cotton oo ‘i gmibanon many hundreds of acres of farm lands. bank now known as the National Bank fo) vt Sah of the First National Bank, and other _ and was president of the corporation tee an always ises. He was the father of George B. Milleswas for years county commissioner, a : : one to voted consistently against granting license to any ndy) McLeod and the late Alf. H. Mc s : s merous descendants stil] make the name oct French was one of the al aes of McLeod Conspicuous in the annals of Lumberton. Robeson has produced. He was Lieutenant Colon Je A. McAllister Was another whose Name cannot be : omitted when th P te 73rd Regiment of Junior Reserves in the Confedera € roll of notable Lumbertonians is called. Service. One of the most eminent eS ee | ‘ teacher and served for years as Superin- Bean section, he was:senior member of ees Sa ass i and Norment, its junior partner being : a event Hit : S. Norment. This firm appeared in ae y sees tear tliellife of his church, portant case tried in this section. It was to Co S William then county Democratic chairman, oat Gene rave wear R. Cox sent the famous telegram: “As You [15] State, Hold Robeson.” An account of this incident will be found in another part of this book. He was the father of Duval D. French and Mrs. Ira B. Townsend. Colonel Alfred Rowland was another outstanding figure in Robeson. A sketch of him will be found in another part of this book. VI General Thomas F. Toon, native of Columbus, was a Brigadier General in the Confederate service and was seri- ously wounded in the battle of Chancellorsville. A school teacher by profession, he served as professor in Robeson Institute. He was a man of such outstanding ability that when a vacancy occurred in the office of State Superin- tendent of Public Instruction, he was appointed by the Governor to fill the vacancy and served until his death. The name of Professor John Duckett is closely associ- ated with Robeson Institute, of which he was the first Principal, and for years he was in charge of the instruction ‘of the youth of the community, and his life and example served to stimulate and inspire all with whom he came in contact. He was one of the educational leaders of the State, having ideas considerably in advance of his generation. When compelled to retire from the school room due to a throat trouble, he served as Secretary to General Toon during his tenure as Superintendent of Public Instruc- tion, and continued in that capacity under superintendent James Y. Joyner until his death in 1908. He was the father of Mrs. K. M. Biggs, of Lumberton, whose husband has rendered such outstanding service to our town and county. A sketch of Robeson Institute will be found in another part of this book. S. A. Edmund was a highly influential man in the life [16] in that Capacity of his town and county. A Republican in politics, he served as Clerk of the Superior Court, and was several times the candidate of his party for high political office. His was a potent voice in the councils of his party in the congressional and judicial districts. He was also a man of great business capacity and accumulated a considerable estate. He possessed the confidence of our people to such an extent that when the Bank of Lumberton—first bank in the county—was organized, he was one of its first directors, and he was also an original director of the Lumberton Cotton Mills. He was also a friend of the Caro- lina Northern (later Raleigh and Charleston) Railroad and of the Southern Saw Mills and Lumber Company, and rendered these companies much financial assistance in time of financial stress. es A sketch of Judge Thomas A. McNeill will be found in another part of this book. It will generally be admitted that the two men who have rendered Lumberton the most service were Edward Knox Proctor and Governor Angus Wilton McLean. A sketch of Mr. Proctor’s activities as a prohibitionist will be found in another part of this book. He was the father of public improvements in Lumberton, and it is believed that our town holds a unique record in that three genera- tions of Proctors have served the town as Mayor: E. K. Proctor, Sr., his son, E. K. Proctor, Jr., his son James Dick Proctor. Mr. Proctor’s leadership resulted in the in- Stallation of the first electric lights, the first waterworks and sewerage, and other public improvements. He caused the first artesian well to be bored (near Lumber River, at the foot of Third Street at the old Caldwell bridge) , and was largely responsible for inducing our people to abandon the use of shallow wells for the deep artesian water. He laid out and improved a large part of what is [17] now the choice section of North Lumberton. He was an original director in the Lumberton Cotton Mill, the origi- nal officers of which were Robert D. Caldwell, president; A. W. McLean, vice-president, and Henry B. Jennings, secretary-treasurer. He was known for his interest in the cause of education, and was a founder and chairman of the Board of Trustees of Robeson Institute. The other mem- bers of the Board of Trustees of Robeson Institute were Robert D. Caldwell, secretary; B. Godwin, Q. T. Williams and Frank Gough. He served as trustee of Wake Forest College, and was chairman of the Board of Education of Robeson County. : His service to the cause of temperance was perhaps his greatest single contribution to Robeson County. In a day when prohibition was extremely unpopular, he went from church to church pleading for temperance, and it was under his leadership that Robeson became the pio- neer prohibition county in Eastern Carolina, when an act was passed making it unlawful to sell intoxicants within three miles of any church in Robeson County. Mr. Proctor practiced law in partnership with Stephen McIntyre, under the firm name, Proctor & McIntyre, which firm did an extensive practice and possessed the confidence of the people to a degree seldom possessed by lawyers. They were largely responsible for the building of the Carolina Northern Railroad and the Southern Saw Mills & Lumber Co., and were general counsel for those companies. After the death of Mr. Proctor, Mr. McIntyre assumed, in large measure, the position in the community held by Mr. Proctor during his life. Mr. Proctor was a leading figure in the life of his church (of which he was chairman of the Board of Dea- cons) and the Robeson Association (of which he was clerk for years) and it was his christian statesmanship which [18] endeared him to our people. He was a tower of strength to both Church and State in his generation. His portrait was recently presented to the County and a monument has recently been unveiled to his memory at Proctorville —which was named in his honor. His four sons: James D., Edward Knox III, Robert W., and John G., all became lawyers, and they, with numerous other descendants, still occupy positions of prominence in the life of our section. Vit Colonel Neill Archie McLean was one of the most prominent lawyers, not only of Lumberton, but of the State. A sketch of him will be found elsewhere in this book, Dr. Neill Archie Thompson was a forward looking, pub- lic spirited physician and one of the most popular men that ever lived in our town. He early realized the need for local hospitalization, and established the Thompson Hos- pital—first hospital in Robeson County. The present Thompson Memorial Hospital is named in his honor. His tragic death in an accident was deeply mourned throughout Robeson. He was the father of the present Neill Archie Thompson and other children. Nor can the name of Dr. John D. McMillan, Sr., be forgotten in any list of the benefactors of Lumberton. Pioneer and loved physician of the horse and buggy days, he rode the roads of Robeson, day and night, winter and summer, upon his healing mission; and no matter what hour of the night, nor how long the way, nor how bad the roads, nor how poverty stricken the patient—Dr. Mc- Millan went immediately and stayed until no longer needed. Of such men is the Kingdom of Heaven. He also established McMillan’s Drug Store, one of the oldest busi- [19] nesses in Lumberton. He was the father of Mrs. G. Ed. Rancke and the late John D. McMillan, [fies Frank Gough was a progressive citizen of Lumberton, who had a part in many things and took a prominent part in the life of our town. A brother-in-law of A. C. Melke, he succeeded to the business of that lamented citizen, of whose will Mr. Gough was one of the executors. Later he was associated with Mr. A. E. White in the large mercan- tile business of White and Gough. He had extensive farming and other interests, and was a trustee of Robeson Institute. He had a flair for the public service, and per- haps filled more positions than any other man in Robeson County. He served on the Lumberton Board of Audit & Finance for twenty years; upon the County Board of Elec- tions for twenty-five years; he served two terms as State Senator; was a member of the State Prison Board and of the State Board of Agriculture; was a director of the At- lantic and North Carolina Railroad, etc. He was the father of Miss Lina Gough and of Frank Gough, Jr., talented musician. Governor Angus Wilton McLean was not only Robe- son’s only Governor, and not only made a deep impression upon the life of his State, but he was the only Robesonian who achieved a national prominence. A sketch of him will be found elsewhere in this book. The name of Robert D. Caldwell must also stand near the top in any list of outstanding Lumbertonians. A sketch devoted to him will be found elsewhere in this book. Stephen McIntyre was another. outstanding man not only of his county, but of his State. A sketch devoted to him will be found elsewhere in this book. Luther H. Caldwell is another notable citizen whose memory will not become beclouded by the passage of time. [ 20] He was for a number of years a leading merchant, having succeeded his father, John H. Caldwell, in that capacity. He was a man of high integrity, beloved of our people. Of great natural ability, he shunned the limelight, would hever accept public office, but constantly went about do- ing good. He confined himself almost entirely to three interests: his church/ his charities and his business. He had much business capacity and served as director in the bank, cotton mills, V. & C. S. Railroad, the oil mill, and other enterprises. He accumulated a large estate and had Sreat influence throughout the county. His chief pride and joy was his church and his religious activities. Not only did his home church receive generous benefactions at his hands, but other churches and Sunday Schools throughout the section. He was greatly interested in Sunday School work, and was primarily responsible for the establishment of a church and Sunday School in North Lumberton and at other points in this vicinity. Sunday was his heaviest day, and he always spent it entirely in the service of his Master. I think our people like to remember Mr. Caldwell best for his abounding charity. He was the most charitable man I have ever known—charitable not only with his money, but in his views. I never knew him to speak ill of any man. If he could say nothing good—and he usually could—he spoke not at all. As for his charities, they were almost limitless. All Robeson knew that if money was heeded for charity—go to Mr. Caldwell. He gave un- stintedly and constantly. Even if he did not feel that the Cause was entirely worthy, yet he gave lest he be mistaken in his own judgment. The monument Mr. Caldwell has erected in the hearts of Lumbertonians is for his abiding kindness. Like Abou ben Adhem, he loved his fellow man. Ave atque vale! [21] Quitman T. Williams was another notable man of his day. Altogether quiet, modest and unassuming, his judg- ment was always sought when any movement of conse- ' quence was afoot. A man of much ability and of high character, he lived a life of much usefulness, His business integrity was such that altho he was in the fire insurance business for over forty years, he never had a claim con- tested, or a suit in court. He was a director in the bank, cotton mills, and in other enterprises, and a trustee of Robeson Institute. He was devoted to his church which he served as deacon. He was one of the BEST men I have ever known. His children still occupy prominent places in the life of Lumberton. Builders of Red Springs There was a settlement at the place now called Red Springs as early as 1775, when Hector McNeill received a grant from King George III covering the site of the present town, this grant being signed by Josiah Martin, Provincial Governor of North Carolina. John T. McNeill, Jv., a great-great-great-grandson of Hector McNeill, is still in possession of a substantial part of the lands embraced within this ancient grant. For many years prior to and after the Civil War the town was known principally as a summer resort for the people of this section, who went thither to drink the medicinal waters from the springs from which the town derived its name. As early as 1852, Malcolm McNeill, grandson of Hector McNeill, built a large hotel. for the accommodation of the summer visitors, and this hotel was in existence until the late S. R. Townsend, in 1891, erected the hotel which bore his name until it was recently demolished. [22] Also, prior to the Civil War a school building was erected in the grove of exceptionally fine pines near the hotel, and this was also used for public gatherings. Among the teachers in this old school were such men as DEA: Buie, William Stewart, Hamilton McMillan, Peter Shaw, Major Jesse R. McLean and others. For many years there was also an annual fair held in the town, and it was the place for the recreation enjoyed by the people of this section and upper South Carolina. But for the past years Red Springs has been noted Principally as the seat of the institution originally known as Red Springs Seminary, then as Southern Presbyterian College and Conservatory of Music, and more recently as Flora McDonald College, in honor of the immortal Scotch heroine of that name. It is in a very real sense the daughter of Floral College which was located at the village of that name between Maxton and Red Springs and which prior to the Civil War was a noted institution of learning for the young womanhood of the Cape Fear section. After the Civil War Floral College declined, and the oldest college for women in North Carolina finally ceased to exist. In 1896, on September goth, the institution now known as Flora McDonald College opened its doors under the presidency of that venerable, beloved and distinguished Robesonian, Rev. Dr. Charles G. Vardell, who is still active as president emeritus of his beloved institution, and who modestly wears the laurel wreath with which he has been crowned by his people after more than seventy years of conspicuous service to North Carolina. The influence of this institution upon the womanhood of the South has been simply incalculable. It is a grade ‘“‘A”’ fully accredited school and one of the best colleges for women in the South. While Dr. Charles G. Vardell took the initiative in the [23] founding of the institution, he had the whole hearted assistance and co-operation of Rev. S. M. Rankin, pastor of the Presbyterian Churches at Red Springs, Antioch and Philadelphus; the venerable Rev. Dr. H. G. Hill, and other men of vision of a former day who have gone to their rewards. Sketch of Dr. Vardell will be found elsewhere in this book. At a future time I hope it will be my privilege to name some of the Robesonians who have been substantial bene- factors of this institution—such men as Dr. J. LeMe Millan, who donated the land upon which the institution is located; the late A. T. McCallum, of Red Springs; Locke Shaw, of St. Pauls; Governor Angus W. McLean, of Lumberton, and others. The post office was known as Dora, up to 1885, when its name was changed to Red Springs. Prior to the con- struction of the Cape Fear & Yadkin Valley Railroad in 1884, (now the Atlantic Coast Line) , mail for Dora was sent from Lumberton via horse and sulky twice weekly. In 1887, Hamilton McMillan, Red Springs lawyer, legis- lator and historian, caused the enactment of legislation incorporating the town, and (Red) Hector McNeill, grandson of the original Hector, became the first Mayor thereof. The Scottish Chief began publication at Red Springs in 1888, and so continued for many years until the paper was removed to Maxton. R. T. Covington was its able editor. Here, in 1892, Fayetteville Presbytery established a Bible Institute which was conducted in a large tabernacle for a number of years. S. R. Townsend was an early citizen who played a large part in the life of his section, as did his son, B. W. Town- [ 24] send, who was a man of fine business ability, a director in the bank, cotton mill and other enterprises. A. T. McCallum was an outstanding man of his day. He was one of the best business men I have ever known and accumulated a large estate. He was a director in prac- tically every corporation in his section and interested in many other concerns. He was deeply interested in Flora McDonald College and was a benefactor of that institution. Dr. B. F. McMillan was for many years a leading physi- Cian of northern Robeson, who not only practiced his Profession with conspicuous ability, but who was the friend and confidant of that entire section. He was the father of Sheriff B. F. McMillan, of Lumberton, and Dr. Roscoe D. McMillan and Zeb V. McMillan, of Red Springs. His kinsman, Dr. J. L. McMillan, was a man of the Same type, distinguished for his ability as a physician and for his usefulness to his people. He was the constant friend and supporter of Flora McDonald College, having donated the land upon which the institution was built. Major George H. Hall, Confederate Soldier, was an- other who materially aided in the development of his’ section. He served in the House of Representatives. A son, Charles Hall, was killed in action during the World War. J. G. and F. W. Williams were notable citizens of early Red Springs where they engaged in the saw milling busi- hess upon an extensive scale. They built the railroad from Red Springs to Wagram, originally known as the Williams, Vandergrift and Williams road; later as the Red Springs and Bowmore. W. F. Williams was the father of Mrs. Thomas A. McNeill, of Lumberton. A. B. Pearsall was one of the finest business men Robe- son County has produced. He was president of the bank, - [25 ] a director in every important enterprise in his section, and greatly influenced for good the people of northern Robeson. Martin McKinnon was another outstanding character; an excellent man of business, who left behind him a de- cided impress upon his community. He was an uncle of Henry A. McKinnon, prominent Lumberton lawyer. Hamilton McMillan was another notable man of his day, who served with distinction in legislative halls. A man of literary taste, he devoted years of patient research into the origin of the Indians of Robeson County, and his history of these Indians is still the standard authority on that subject. W. J. Johnson was another prominent man of large usefulness, whose tragic and untimely death in a railroad accident was lamented by all northern Robeson. J. E. Purcell was the leading surveyor and civil engi- neer of his day, and his map of Lumberton, made in 1904, is still the official map of our town. He was the near kinsman of Governor Angus W. McLean, and Alex T. and Dickson McLean, of Lumberton; Bishop Purcell, of the Methodist Church, and many other prominent Robe- sonians. : I would that the space at my disposal would permit a more extended reference to other notable citizens of Red Springs, such as M. A. Buie, brother of my venerable friend, J. N. Buie; Rev. R. A. Moore, prominent Baptist preacher; D. P. McEachern, legislator; W. J. McLeod, (one of the God Blessed Macs in the legislature of 1909) ; James A. McNeill; N. B. McArthur, legislator, and others. [26] Builders of Maxton Maxton (Mac’s Town) , metropolis of western Robeson, Was originally known as Shoeheel and at a later date as Quehele. There was a settlement at this point from the time of the construction of the Wilmington, Charlotte and Rutherford Railroad (now the Seaboard) , during the Civil War. Josephus Daniels, North Carolina editor, journalist, statesman and Ambassador to Mexico, years ago dubbed the people of the section the “God Blessed Mac’s.” Elsewhere will be found an article relating to the origin of the term. The late Col. N. A. McLean always affectionately referred to Maxton as “Sandy-Jackton” in compliment to two men who had such an outstanding part in the life of the town—A. J. McKinnon and J. W. Carter. The town is the seat of Presbyterian Junior Col- lege, which is doing such an outstanding work for the youth of Eastern Carolina. Maxton is famous for the calibre of the men and women she produces. Elsewhere will be found sketches of that foremost of preachers, Rev. Dr. H. G. Hill; the lawyer-preacher the beloved William Black; Angus Dhu McLean, Assistant Attorney General of the United States; Gilbert B. Patterson, outstanding lawyer and Congress- man; Sallie Lou McKinnon, in charge of Woman’s work in the Southern Methodist Church; and Elizabeth Mac- Rae, pioneer founder of the mission movement and of Lees-MacRae College in Western Carolina. Maxton is also noted for the number of her prominent lawyers, who turned preachers, the list including not only Rey. William Black, but Sylvester B. McLean, former Solicitor of this District, now an outstanding Presbyterian divine of Mecklenburg County; and Rev. Dr. John Allen McLean, former law partner of the late Congressman, [27] John G. Shaw, of Fayetteville, who has been for years pastor of Ginter Park Presbyterian Church at Richmond, Virginia. John Allen McLean, Sr., was a pioneer merchant and business man who possessed the confidence of the com- munity and exercised much influence throughout that section. All his sons became lawyers. Two of them, Sylves- ter B. McLean and John Allen McLean, Jr., became preachers as above referred to. His other son, Angus Dhu McLean, was one of the most eminent lawyers North Carolina has produced. After a brilliant career at the Bar, and many years of notable service in the General Assem- bly (where he championed the cause of the common schools) he became Assistant Attorney General of the United States and rendered distinguished service in that capacity. Upon his shoulders was the task of upholding before the Supreme Court of the United States many of the policies formulated by President Franklin D. Roose- velt during his first administration. John C. McCaskill, another pioneer merchant of the early period left a permanent mark upon the life of that section. He accumulated a considerable estate for his day and had much to do with shaping the future life of his town. Buildings and streets in Maxton bear his name, mute memorials of his former service. Gilbert B. Patterson was one of the most widely known lawyers of eastern North Carolina. He was an. orator of parts and served this district many years in Congress. He was the father of Mrs. Johnnie E. Johnson, of Lumberton. Patterson avenue was named in his honor. A sketch of Mr. Patterson will be found elsewhere in this book. Major A. J. McKinnon was one of the foremost busi- ness men of his day and there were few enterprises in [28] Maxton with which he was not connected. He was a man of fine public spirit and could ever be relied upon to Support. any movement for the public good. Major Mc- Kinnon was the father of Henry A. McKinnon, prominent Lumberton lawyer. : J. W. Carter, large merchant and successful business man was co-laborer with Major McKinnon to such an extent that the names of the two men became synonymous with that of Maxton. He served for many years as chair- man of the Board of Commissioners of Robeson County. A man of high character, great energy, with the forward look, he contributed largely to every effort for the public Weal in western Robeson. Col. E. F. (Lila) MacRae was another man who should not be overlooked in the category of builders of western Robeson. He was a man of deserved popularity and served his people in several positions of trust and confidence, among these being member of the Board of County Com- Missioners and State Senator. He was a kinsman of Mrs. Elizabeth MacRae, of Alma, who founded Lees-MacRae College, of Banners Elk, N. C. The Builders of Rowland Rowland is located on the very edge of South Carolina and is the last town as you leave North Carolina going south on the main line of the Atlantic Coast Line. It was Named in honor of Colonel Alfred Rowland, Confederate Soldier, member of Congress, and prominent lawyer, of Lumberton. The pioneer builders of Rowland may be said to be the firm of A. & W. McQueen. These gentlemen were “time merchants” and when the Coast Line was built through southern Robeson they moved from Plainview [ 29] sali iaieinieaeatie RSE a eee se CS CN CI RR ST ee rE to Rowland and may be said to be the founders of the town. For many years they conducted an extensive mer- cantile business, serving not only southern Robeson but much of what is now Dillon County, S. C. They were the leading citizens of their day. The firm of A. L. & W. F. Bullock, was another pioneer firm which removed from Alfordsville to Rowland. W. F. Bullock, altho interested in this firm, was primarily a farmer, and a very succcessful one upon a large scale. His brother, A, L. Bullock, was largely interested in every public movement, and was not only one of the most influ- ential men of Robeson County but a man of great public spirit. He was for a number of years chairman of the Board of Commissioners of Robeson County. These gentle- men were both men of the highest integrity and left a lasting imprint upon the life of that section. Perhaps the most dynamic personage of the Rowland section was Allen Edens. He was a business man par excel- lence, and laid the foundation for many of the enterprises which exist in Rowland to this day. He was one of the best business men Robeson County has produced, and Rowland owes his memory a lasting debt of gratitude. William H. McLellan was another who had an influ- ential part in the building of the town. Modest, quiet and unobtrusive in character, he took a leading part in any enterprise which promised benefit to his people. He was a prime mover in the corporate life of the section, and his untimely death cut short a career of great usefulness. The name of Graham McKinnon cannot be omitted from any list of the builders of Rowland. A man of out- standing ability and high purpose, his counsel was sought and heeded whenever any movement was launched for the public good. He served as a member of the legislature 80] and in other positions of trust and confidence. He was the father of Graham McKinnon, of Lumberton. William W. McCormick was another pioneer citizen whose name will ever be borne in mind when the history of the town is recalled. He was a man of sterling integrity, of extensive farming and mercantile interests and left his imprint upon the future of his town. Henry K. McCor- mick was a man of similar type. L. Z. Hedgepeth was another Rowland citizen with the forward look. Serving the public in many capacities he had much to do with the improvement of the town and the upbuilding of its industries. While Dr. Sinclair did not live immediately in Row- land, he lived in the immediate vicinity and was for many years the beloved physician of a wide territory in southern Robeson. He was the father of judge N. A. Sinclair, of Fayetteville. The Builders of Fairmont Fairmont, metropolis of southern Robeson, was origi- nally known as Ashpole. Later its name was changed to Union City, which name was retained until about 1905, when it became Fairmont. Among the builders of Fairmont, the name of Stinson Ivey should have first place for his invaluable service to Robeson County as principal of Ashpole Academy. It has been said that the monument to Professor Quakenbush, which was erected on the court house square at Laurin- burg, is the only monument in the United States built by public subscription in honor of the memory of a private school teacher. Whether this is true or not, Professor Quakenbush richly merited this tribute, and the people of Fairmont, even at this late day, would honor them- [31] selves by erecting some form of public memorial in mem- ory of Professor Ivey. Among his more prominent pupils may be noted the following: Rev. W. P. Pope, Baptist minister, brother of the late Dr. Henry T. Pope, of Lum- berton; David J. Lewis, well known lawyer of Whiteville; Rev. Everett Ward, prominent minister who removed to Texas; John Bethune Carlyle, builder of Wake Forest College and professor of Latin in that institution, one of the greatest orators North Carolina ever produced, a man beloved by hundreds of Wake Forest alumni and by thou- sands of Robesonians (he once told the writer that he owed the inspiration of his life to Professor Ivey) ; Colin McLean, prominent lawyer and Solicitor of this District; Dr. John P. Brown, of Fairmont, (still very much alive) who has had such a large part in the building of Fairmont: Julian Williamson, lawyer, and his brother, Dr. William- son, physician, both of Whiteville. There were many others who might be mentioned, John D. McLean, with his brother-in-law, J. W. Carter, of Maxton, operated the then largest mercantile business. Mr. McLean was a man of intense energy, great public spirit, and took delight in contributing both his time and his money to the public welfare. He was the motivé power behind many of the industries which survive to this day. A. L. Jones was another of the founders of present day Fairmont. Saw miller, lumberman and extensive farmer, he had large interests throughout the Fairmont section and contributed much in his day to the Prosperity of his section. A. R. Bullock was one of the best business men Robe- son has produced. He had a genius for business and when- ever any new enterprise was to be planned or any new movement inaugurated, the wise counsel of Mr. Bullock was always sought and heeded. [ 32] Dr. John B. Brown, father of the present Dr. J. P. Brown, was the pioneer country doctor and beloved physi- cian to all the Fairmont section. Father and son together have labored for the building up of southern Robeson for More than three quarters of a century. a, ‘ To James P. Pittman belong the distinction of being the first grower of tobacco in Robeson. At that time there was no market for the weed nearer than Raleigh. It is a far cry from the day when Mr. Pittman planted his sole tobacco crop in Robeson to the present, when Fairmont with her 8 warehouses, 3 re-drying plants, and other mod- €rn equipment, sells around thirty million pounds of the golden weed each season, and bases her prosperity upon the crop which Mr. Pittman pioneered upon such a modest scale. We hope in the near future to see factories built in Fairmont which will manufacture the leaf into the fin- ished product. A. §. (Sandy) Thompson was another pioneer of Fair- mont. Register of Deeds, large farmer, director in several Corporate enterprises, his services could always be im- pressed for the public good. There are other names at Fairmont which deserve men- tion, such as N. W. Jenkins, legislator; A. J. Floyd, Merchant and public spirited citizen; Oscar Hea quiet, substantial citizen whose hand was one of thosé upon the helm at Fairmont. Builders of Barnesville, Marietta, McDonalds The name of Richard Rhodes Barnes stands alone in his section. A sketch devoted to him will be found else- where in this book. : At Marietta, the name Oliver is the outstanding one. J. S. (Shep) Oliver was the commanding influence in [33 ] Whitehouse township. He served several terms as a Repre- sentative from Robeson County, always with distinction, and was known and held in affectionate esteem by all Robeson. A farmer upon a large scale, with an extensive mercantile business, and a wide field of activity in all his section, he led the life of Whitehouse in his day and generation. C. A. Oliver was another member of the Oliver family who served his native section with fidelity and ability. He was for many years a County Commissioner, and was a wise and safe counsellor of his people. He was always consulted before anything definite could be done in Whitehouse, and his passing left a vacant place in the life of that section which has never quite been filled. When we come to the McDonald-Raynham section the name Townsend will at once occur to those who know anything of the history of our county. Richard Townsend was a typical antebellum southern gentleman, who lived at home upon his broad acres, produced practically every- thing that his large family or his numerous slaves required, occupied a leading place in the life of the county and was generally looked to for leadership of both Church and State in his locality. He owned the land on which Mc- Donald is built. He raised, educated and equipped a large family, and numerous descendants even to the third and fourth generation, rise up to call him blessed. His children were: Claude B. Townsend, of Lumberton, lawyer, banker, Clerk of our Superior Court, oldest living gradu- ate of Duke University; Frank M. Townsend (deceased) , planter, who lived at McDonald; J. A. Townsend (de- ceased) , merchant of Hot Springs, Ark.; L. S. Townsend (deceased) , planter, of Maxton; W. H. Townsend, tele- “Phone executive of High Point; R. W. Townsend (de- ceased) , for many years in the Methodist ministry; J. L. [ 34] ’ T. Townsend, prominent citizen, of Lumberton; Mrs. Townsend, large planter of near Richmond, Va.; Leonidas Agnes McCallum, widow of A. T. McCallum, one of the builders of Red Springs; Mrs. Susan McLeod of Lumber- ton (deceased); and Mrs. Elizabeth T. McLean (de- Ceased) , first wife of the late Col. Neill Archie McLean _ of Lumberton. Lewis R. Hamer took a prominent part in the affairs of southern Robeson. A man of large means and extensive interests, of high character, he served for many years in the vanguard of the life of his section. He served as mem- ber of the Board of Education of Robeson County; as director of several corporations, and in other positions of trust and confidence. He assisted in the organization of several business enterprises and the life of that com- munity shows the result of his labors to this day. He was the father-in-law of Dr. George M. Pate, of Rowland. The Builders of St. Pauls—Parkton For many years there was a settlement grouped around the Presbyterian Church located in what is now the ex- treme western limits of present day St. Pauls. Here there Was a large general store conducted by Locke Shaw. Mr. Shaw was for many years the outstanding man of that section. The people looked to him for leadership, and received it from his capable hands. He was the friend, Mentor and counsellor of his people, and when any new Project was planned, always the first question was, what does Mr. Shaw think of it? He served for many years as County Commissioner of Robeson County, and was the friend and early benefactor of the institution now known as Flora McDonald College. When the Virginia & Caro- lina Southern Railroad was built, Mr. Shaw and his [35] brother-in-law, A. R. McEachern, who owned the land on which St. Pauls was built, laid off the townsite, sold many town lots, and, with others, organized the town. He con- ceived the St. Pauls Cotton Mills and became its first president, its other original officers being J. M. Butler, Sr., vice president, and A. R. McEachern, secretary-treas- urer. When Mr. Shaw died after a long career of great usefulness, that séction sustained an irreparable loss. A. R. (Sandy) McEachern was connected with St. Pauls from early youth. After a period of service with his brother-in-law, Locke Shaw, in his mercantile business, Mr. McEachern assisted in the laying out and develop- ment of the infant town. He was prime mover in the establishment of the Bank of St. Pauls and was to the end a director thereof. With his kinsmen, James A. and Walter D. Johnson and L. A. McGeachey, he organized McEach- ern-Johnson-McGeachey Co., the largest mercantile busi- ness of the town. In fact, Mr. Sandy (as he was affection- ately known) was connected with practically every enter- prise of his section. His principal business, however, was textiles, and he served either as president or as secretary- treasurer of the original St. Pauls Cotton Mill and of the Ernaldson and McEachern Cotton Mills from their organ- ization to his death. He was a man of high character, be- loved by all who knew him and his recent death was lamented by all Robeson. He, too, served his county for years as County Commissioner. Dr. Thomas L. Northrop was an early citizen of St. Pauls who must be named in any list of the leaders of northern Robeson. He was the leading physician of that end of the county. He was also an excellent man of busi- ness, a large landowner, and one who had a large part in the development of his section. He was a director in the Bank of St. Pauls, in the Cotton Mills and other enter- [ 36] 5% prises. His untimely death in the prime of a vigorous and Most useful manhood, was a great loss to his section. James A. Johnson also played a prominent part in the building of his town. He, with his brother, Walter D. Johnson, was a large farmer, and was interested in the cotton mill, the bank, the mercantile business of Mc- Eachern-Johnson-McGeachey Co., Johnson Bros. Lumber Co., and other enterprises. He was deservedly one of the Most popular men who ever lived in that section. When we get to Parkton, the name of Neill McNeill should head the list of those who wrought for that section and have passed away. He was a man of large farming and business interests and laid a great part of the foundation of his town. He was its leading citizen for many years, and his memory lives after him in our county. James McNatt was another pioneer builder at Parkton whose name deserves more than passing mention. Of high character and great natural ability, he took and main- tained a commanding position in the life of his section. He was the father of the late J. C. D. McNatt, and the son carried on the traditions of his father. C. D. Williamson was another builder of Parkton who has passed from the scene of action. He was for years a Rural Carrier from the Parkton postoffice, and is perhaps best known for his great interest in community singing. But over and above this he was a guiding influence in the life of Parkton, and his recent death will be felt in that section for many years. If those now living could be considered, we would of Course, include such men as John B. McCormick, patri- arch; Collier Cobb, legislator; Major John B. Malloy, National guardsman, and others, but this our limits pre- clude. [ 37] Builders of Lumber Bridge—Pates The settlement at Lumber Bridge dates back many years, and the military company at that point is one of the oldest in the State. Its citizens have done their full share in the building of Robeson. Rey. Dr. P. R. Law, eminent Presbyterian divine, spent his youth and early manhood at Lumber Bridge, where he was a moulder of public sentiment and a forceful per- sonality in the life of the county. His talents were such that he was called to a larger field of usefulness, and he became and continued until his death the editor of the Presbyterian Standard, organ of that church in North Carolina. Angus L. Shaw was for many years a leading figure in the life of northern Robeson. He was a merchant and large farmer, and a man of such probity, force and energy that he was constantly called upon to serve the public. He served with notable distinction both as State Senator and as County Commissioner. One of his sons, Duncan Preston Shaw, Lumberton lawyer, married a daughter of Col. Alfred Rowland. Maurice L. Marley was another leading citizen who wielded much influence in the life of the county. A lead- ing merchant and farmer, of keen intellect and great business sagacity, he had a large part in the building of his section. He served for a long period as County Com- missioner, and his descendants today continue to play a prominent part in the life of upper Robeson. Henry M. John was another forceful citizen of his town. A man of utmost integrity, much interested in the cause of public education, he also served for many years upon the Board of Commissioners of the county. He was a brother of R. B. John, Presiding Elder of the Methodist [38] Episcopal Church; J. T. John, prominent merchant and beloved elder citizen of Scotland County; and Maxcy L. John, Laurinburg lawyer. Dr. Thomas Stamps was another notable man of his day. He was the leading physician of his section, beloved by all who’ knew him. He was also a man of affairs, being director in the Bank of Lumber Bridge, St. Pauls Cotton Mills, and other institutions. His recent death was la- Mented by northern Robeson. The pioneer citizen of Pates was R. W. Livermore. For many years he conducted a large general store there and acted as the friend, counsellor and guide to that entire section. White, Indians and Negroes looked to him for leadership. He was to the manor born, and continued to the end of his life the foremost figure of his section. He was the father of Russell H. Livermore, of Lumberton, who inherited his fine business sagacity from his father. Builders of Robeson FINALLY In concluding this series of thumb nail sketches, let me Say there has been no effort to tell a connected story, or to be inclusive in the narrative. There has simply been an attempt to tell something of the men of the past whose lives have loomed large in the life of our State or County. And there has been failure even here, as I doubt not numerous names have been omitted which by all means should have been included. Memory is very treacherous. These names will occur to me later and will increase the Mortification when such omission or oversight is called to my attention or is remembered by me. Robeson is a great county—in fact a State within a [39] St rEi- State. She is the largest county in North Carolina; she has more railroad mileage and more hard surfaced roads than any other county. She ranks near the top in the number of her inhabitants, and in the value of her annual prod- ucts. She stands at the top as a rich agricultural county. She has rich traditions behind her, and a glorious future in front of her. But her greatest asset is the character of her citizenship and the forward look of her people. I cannot close these sketches without calling the atten- tion of the youth of our county to some of the names which are conspicuous in the history of our. county, and without appealing to them to emulate the lives and the virtues of those men who made our county what it is and who have passed from the scene of action. Are there not hundreds of Robeson County youth who would like to be: GREAT PREACHERS—such as Dr. H. G. Hill, or Rev. William Black. , GREAT EDUCATORS—such as Charles G. Vardell, John Bethune Carlyle, or Stinson Ivey. GREAT LAWYERS—such as Col. Neill Archie Mc- Lean, Stephen McIntyre, Gilbert B. Patterson or Angus Dhu MacLean. GREAT DOCTORS—such as Richard M. Norment, John D. McMillan, John B. Brown or Richard Lewis. GREAT BUSINESS EXECUTIVES AND STATES- MEN—such as Governor Angus Wilton McLean. GREAT MERCHANTS—such as Arthur C. Melke or Luther H. Caldwell, both noted for their generosity. GREAT PUBLIC SPIRITED CITIZENS—such as Edward Knox Proctor or Robert D. Caldwell. GREAT BELOVED CITIZENS—such as Rey. I. P. Hedgepeth, Charles H. Durham, Charles B. Skipper, or W. S. Wishart (‘‘C’). [40] GREAT MEN OF A LOST GAUSE—such as Col. Alfred Rowland, Col. William Foster French, Captain William S. Norment. GREAT SERVANTS OF THE COUNTY AT LARGE—such as Richard Rhodes Barnes, of Barnesville; A. L. Bullock, of Rowland; J. W. Carter or A. J. Mc- Kinnon, of Maxton; A. T. McCallum, of Red Springs; P. R. Law, of Lumber Bridge; Locke Shaw or A. R. McEachern, of St. Pauls. If so, or if the lives of any of these men proves an encouragement and an inspiration to even one Robeson youth, I shall feel that my effort has not been entirely in vain. es SOME INCIDENTS IN ROBESON HISTORY THE MINUTES OF ASBURY CHURCH RAYNHAM—down in Robeson, was named after the seat of the Townsend family in England, as the Town- sends predominate in the neighborhood. Here Richard and Jackson Townsend raised their large families, and from hence came Nat Townsend, superior court judge, Parole Commissioner, and Washington lawyer. The traveler may have some difficulty in locating Rayn- ham, as there is nothing there but a small country store, and ancient Asbury Church, named in honor of Method- ism’s first American Bishop. In the days before the Civil War, old Peter Doub, pioneer Methodist itinerant, ministered to the flock at Asbury, which numbered more slaves among its mem- bership than whites. They worshipped in a gallery, high up under the roof, whence they could look down on the white folks below. Mr. Doub also ministered to FIFTEEN other Methodist Churches down in Robeson, preaching to each as often as possible. And right after the Civil War came the mighty veteran John Tillett to minister to the spiritual needs of Method- ism at old Asbury and he too undertook to preach to fifteen other congregations. He was gathered to his fathers Over fifty years ago, but his shadow yet rests over two States: over Tennessee, where his son, Dr. Wilbur F., is Dean of Vanderbilt University; over North Carolina, where down Charlotte way there is a host of Tillett grand- children who carry on the best traditions of their elders. The minute book of the church conferences held at old Asbury contains much quaint and curious: informa- tion. The Clerk recorded his views of the failures and fa5 shortcomings of his brethren and sisters with a positive assurance which left nothing to the imagination. And those plagued Baptists! They had a way of making a raid on the Methodist congregation every now and then, and carrying off a sheep here and there. This irked the very soul of the Methodist clerk, and it was hard for him to control his indignation. A few of his comments set opposite the names of the members on the roster of the congregation will show the travail of his soul as he recorded the doings of the heartless Baptists: Here a line is drawn through the name of an erstwhile member, and opposite it is written: “Turned out. No good nohow.” Another: “Gone to the Baptists. Never was no force.” Another: “She fell from grace.” Another: “Deep water.” This stumped me for a time, but as the Baptists immerse and the Methodists sprinkle, I con- cluded that the clerk knew the Baptists had got his mem- ber, but was too proud to admit it! Another: “Expelled. Good riddance.” Another: “Gone to the Baptists OR WORSE.” This held me for a time, but I reached the conclusion-that the words “‘or worse” was simply a sly dig of the clerk at the Presbyterians! And the pages bearing the names of the slave members of the congregation are marked across, and on the margin is written the annotation: “All gone to old Abe Lincoln.” Mr. and Mrs. L. T. Townsend, of Lumberton, and their kinsmen have recently formed an association to protect and preserve this ancient landmark, where the only service now held is a “homecoming” once a year. I know the formation of this association is a comfort to the old church clerk of the sixties as he looks down on Asbury from his home on the other shore. For years he has been troubled less the heartless Baptists make another raid and carry off the very building! [46] THE VALLEY OF THE LUMBER THE field of Culloden was disastrous for the Scotch who were disastrously and decisively defeated by the English, and its results dashed the hopes of bonnie Prince Charles Edward to regain the Scottish throne of his ancestors. But the battle resulted in immeasurable good to North Caro- lina, for as one result of this battle thousands of the Scotch emigrated to the new world, to North Carolina, and to the Valley of the LUMBER, where they people the valley to this good hour. Our stream rises up in the foothills of Moore, near Jackson Springs, and it is perhaps most crooked of all Carolina streams. It ties itself into knots, twists and loops such as that master contortionist, the black snake, would deem impossible. And its crooked winding course con- tinues until it loses itself in the broad Pee Dee down in South Carolina. Let us briefly trace its course through Moore, Scotland, Hoke and Robeson. Scarce more than a spring branch it passes near Aber- deen, home of that great Carolinian, editor, publisher, founder of State College, Ambassador to the Court of St. James—Walter Hines Page, who with his brother Robert N., the Congressman, another brother, Henry A., Food Controller in war days; another brother, Frank, who built our hard surfaced highways; and another brother, J. R., the banker, all came from tiny Aberdeen. Just a few miles lower down and Riverton is reached— not a town but a thickly settled community with the repu- tation of more college graduates per square mile than any country community in North Carolina. This was not an [47] accident. It has been often said that an institution may be but the lengthened shadow of some individual, and the same may be true of a community. It is true of Riverton, for the lengthened shadow here is that of John Monroe, pioneer preacher, mighty man of God, who ministered to the section for nearly half a century. His works do follow him today in the life of that community. To him and to the influence of Floral College, a few miles down stream, which produced the cultured womanhood so essential to the production of christian manhood, are due influences for good which compass the globe. Glance at a few of the notable names coming from this community: Archibald Johnson, mighty editor, and his brilliant son, the nationally known author and editorial writer of the Baltimore Sun, Gerald W. Johnson; Living- ston Johnson, mighty preacher, for years leader of North Carolina Baptists, and his distinguished son, Dr. Wingate M. Johnson, Winston surgeon, president State Medical Association; John Charles McNeill, Poet Laureate of ° North Carolina; John Arch McMillan, editor of Charity and Children; Hudson H. McMillan, veteran foreign mis- sionary; Robert L. McMillan, prominent Raleigh lawyer; Jasper L. Memory, Jr., professor of education Wake Forest College. There are yet others. A few miles down stream and we reach Floral College, seat of the oldest woman’s college in North Carolina authorized to confer degrees. Here, prior to and after the Civil War, came the daughters of eastern North and South Carolina, and received the higher education which has made the section so notable for the broad culture of its womanhood. The college went down years ago, but its influence still abides, and its daughter Flora McDonald College yet lives at Red Springs—worthy daughter of a great mother. [48] pitEES* Here at Floral College served that mighty man of God, Rev. Dr. Halbert G. Hill, who preached the Word until past ninety. He was several times Moderator of the Presby- terian Synod of North Carolina; for nearly fifty years a trustee of Union Theological seminary; and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Southern Presbyterian Church—the highest gift within the power of that church. HIS shadow extends over several counties. A few more miles down stream and the hamlet of Maxton is reached. The town is a mere speck on the land- Scape, but I know of no similar town with a record such as that possessed by this village in the land of the “God Blessed Macs”. Consider a few names briefly: Sallie Lou McKinnon, veteran foreign missionary, but recalled from that service to head the Woman’s Work of the Southern Methodist Church; Lillian Austin, foreign missionary to Korea; Mabel Currie, foreign missionary to China. Now glance at the men of Maxton: Three successful lawyers all abandoned their legal careers and entered the Christian ministry: Sylvester B. McLean, Solicitor of his district, now prominent Presbyterian divine of Charlotte; his brilliant brother, John Allen, who was once the law partner of Congressman John G. Shaw, of Fayetteville, and who has been for years pastor of Ginter Park Presby- terian Church at Richmond; and Rev. Dr. William Black, who was for more than twenty years General Evangelist of the Presbyterian Synod of North Carolina; Rev. Dr. Reels McLeod, Jr., president of Centre College, Kentucky. Cannot the brooding shadow of the beloved Dr. Hill be Seen here? From Maxton also came the brilliant Angus Dhu McLean, Assistant Attorney General of the United States, One of the really great lawyers our State has produced; Gilbert B. Patterson, Congressman, and other notable [ 49 ] =< men. All, mind you, from a town no larger than a handkerchief! Two miles down the river and we reach Alma, from which comes the heroic figure of Elizabeth Ann MacRae. Pioneer home missionary was she, a great woman who was the mother of Woman’s Work in the Southern Presby- terian Church. Bearing her own expenses she established more than sixty missionary societies in Fayetteville Presby- tery alone! Then she moved into the deep Appalachians, and on faith alone established the institution known as Lees-MacRae College, out of whose walls have gone over 2500 underprivileged mountain youth. And her work goes marching on! Down the winding course of the river, and we come to Lumberton, which also has rendered the State some serv- ice. From here came Angus Wilton McLean, distinguished business man and lawyer, Chairman of the War Finance Corporation; Assistant Secretary of the Treasury; great Governor of a great State. From here came that veteran Jurist, Judge Thomas A. McNeill, Scot of the Scotch. From ‘here came Colonel Neill Archie McLean, most brilliant of all lawyers I have known after forty years at the Bar. Here dwelt Edward Knox Proctor, pioneer in civic righteousness, whose efforts banned intoxicants from Robeson and enabled it to become the pioneer prohibi- tion county of eastern Carolina. Here also dwelt Stephen McIntyre, powerful lawyer, legislator and civil leader, who introduced in the State Senate the bill appropriating the first $100,000.00 ever appropriated from the State treasury in aid of the public schools. He served as trustee of Wake Forest College, of Meredith College, and of the Baptist Orphanage at Thomasville—the only man in the State to hold these three important positions. These are [5°] but a few of the high lights of Lumberton’s contribution. I could go over into South Carolina, but I forbear. The stream of the Lumber may be narrow and crooked, but the stream flows deep. And, as the Book says, “DEEP CALLETH UNTO DEEP.” [51] THE GOD BLESSED MACS THE honorable Josephus Daniels, veteran former editor of the News and Observer, former Secretary of the Navy, and present Ambassador to Mexico, has long been North Carolina’s most distinguished citizen. It is well known that many years ago, Mr. Daniels dubbed the representatives from the Cape Fear section as the “God Blessed Macs.”, but the present generation is not acquainted with the circumstances which rise to that expression. I remembered quite well that it was in con- nection with some bill pending in the legislature in which Mr. Daniels was intensely interested, and wherein the votes of the representatives from this section saved the day, but I was somewhat vexed when I could not remember what the bill was, or the attendant circumstances. I was forced to appeal to Mr. Daniels for assistance, and His Excellency has courteously placed the desired information at my dis- posal, with many kind words for the people of this section. I think our people will be interested in the circumstances which gave rise to the phrase. Prior to the legislature of 1909, Mr. Daniels had been conducting a campaign to require the railroads to reduce their passenger rates from three to two cents per mile, but the Railroad Commission had refused to require the roads to make the reduction. When the legislature met in 1909, E. J. Justice, of Greensboro, member of the House from Guilford, (son of the late Judge M. H. Justice, of Ruther- ford) and one of the ablest lawyers North Carolina ever produced, promptly introduced a bill to require the rail- roads to reduce their fares. The fight raged bitterly, and [52] for many days, and long before the vote was then taken it was evident that the contending forces were about evenly divided. The vote as finally taken resulted in the Passage of the measure by the close vote of 61 to 593 —every member of the House being present and voting. An an- alysis of the vote showed that every representative whose Name began with ‘“‘Mac’ voted in favor of the bill. Next Morning the jubilant News and Observer had a flaring headline extending across the entire front page, proclaim- ing that “The God Blessed Macs Saved The Day.” The phrase has been used by Mr. Daniels many times since that day, and has become a classic in North Carolina history. Mr. Daniels probably had a ledger in which he kept a list of his “God Blessed Macs.” If he kept books properly, as no doubt he did, he must have had a “‘per contra” page whereon the “God D—d Macs’ were also listed! But if Mr. Daniels kept such a list, the names were few and far between, whereas his list of the “(God Blessed Macs” would fill many pages. [53] SOME ANECDOTES OF WILTON McLEAN (Long Before He Became Governor) WILTON was before judge Charles M. Cooke, trying to get a juror excused from serving because of important business out of town. “Bring him up,” said the judge. So the juror was brought up and introduced to the court. “Aren’t you the son of my old Confederate comrade, Colonel so-and-so?” asked the judge. “I certainly am,’ re- plied the juror, now certain that he would be excused. “JT have often heard my father speak of his service in the Confederate army with your honor, and of his affection for you.” “This moves me deeply,” said the judge. “I feel I must become better acquainted with the son of my old comrade. HAVE A SEAT IN THE JURY BOX AND SPEND A WEEK WITH ME.” * * * * * Wilton was cross-examining Tom Pate who was appear- ing as a witness in an action for damages growing out of an automobile accident. Pate testified that Wilton’s car was travelling seventy miles an hour. “Why don’t you know you can’t travel that fast on our dirt roads?” asked Wilton. “But you can. I have done so myself,” replied Pate. “Just tell the jury when you travelled that fast,” smiled Wilton, looking at the jury knowingly. “Well, | _ gentlemen, it was this way,” said Pate. “I was driving Mr. McLean over to court at Elizabethtown and I acci- dentally ran over some chickens. The farmer ran out with a shot gun, and Mr. McLean told me to step on the gas, which I did. He kept saying go faster, go faster, and faster I went. I know we went at least seventy miles an hour.” [ 54] Wilton began tearing up paper into small bits as was his habit when things were not going just right. When Wilton was about to build the V. & C. S. into Lumberton, I was local counsel for the Seaboard. We heard it was his intention to lay his track on the Seaboard tight of way so as to get between the Seaboard depot and the town. We had instructions to prevent this by legal Proceedings. One day the Seaboard office at Hamlet tele- Phoned us that three cars were en route to Lumberton from Hamlet, loaded with steel rails consigned to the V. & C. S. I knew I would not have time to prepare papers for an injunction, take them to Fayetteville and have them signed by the judge, before the rails would arrive in Lumberton. I therefore met the freight train on its arrival, hurriedly explained the situation to the conduc- tor, told him to have his train pull out immediately and take the three cars of rail down to Allenton and put them On the sidetrack there. This was done, and I went back Up town, smiling to myself at the way I had arranged to circumvent Wilton and his new railroad. That afternoon I prepared my papers, went to Fayetteville, got the injunc- tion signed by the judge, and late that night returned to Lumberton. Early next morning I sought out the sheriff and told him I wanted an injunction served. “On whom and for what?” said the sheriff. I told him. “For heaven’s Sake,” said the sheriff. “Didn’t you know they laid that track last night? Wilton McLean hired every mule and Wagon he could lay his hands on, went down to Allenton, §0t those rails, hauled them up here through the country, and laid that track before day this morning. Go see for yourself.” I hurried down the street toward the depot. Wilton and his partner, Col. N. A. McLean, were evidently €xpecting me to pass, and were lying in wait for me. When T got Opposite their office they called to me. I pretended [55] not to hear and kept going, but they continued to call so loudly that I realized everyone in sight would know that I heard them. So I reluctantly looked up to where Wilton and the Colonel were standing at the windows of their offices. “YOU DIDN’T SEND THEM FAR ENOUGH,” yelled Wilton. “SEND THEM TO WILMINGTON NEXT TIME,” yelled the Colonel. Then Wilton and the Colonel both laughed derisively. I think this was the only instance during my forty years at the Bar when I really felt like committing a homicide! * * * * * One afternoon I told Wilton of the desperate plight of one of my friends who was not a resident of Lumberton or of Robeson. He said nothing, but two days later I received a plain envelope through the mail containing twenty five dollars in currency. I did not have to be told who sent it. Wilton had. Under at times a somewhat gruff exterior, there beat as kindly a heart as I have ever known. [56] ROBESON AND THE ADOPTION OF THE CONSTITUTION WHEN the Constitutional Convention met at Hillsboro in 1788 to consider whether North Carolina should ratify the Federal Constitution, the delegates from the new county of Robeson were: General John Willis, Elias Barnes, Neill Brown, John Cade and John Regan. These delegates voted in favor of ratification with the exception of John Regan, who voted against it. The opponents of ratification had a large majority in the Convention and Tatification was rejected. The next Convention to con- Sider the question met at Fayetteville in 1789. Robeson was represented by the same delegates with the exception of John Regan. His action in voting against ratification was evidently displeasing to his constituents, and he was Succeeded by Sion Alford. Prior to the holding of the Fayetteville convention, the Bill of Rights (first ten amendments to the Constitution) had been proposed, so the Fayetteville convention by a large majority ratified the Constitution and North Carolina became the twelfth State to be admitted to the American Union. A glance at the Robeson delegates to these conventions may be of interest: John Willis is well known as the father of Lumberton, our town having been laid out upon his lands. He was a Major General of Militia, and was the first Senator from Robeson County, serving several terms. Elias Barnes was also a prominent man. He was on the committee which located the county seat of Robeson; he Was a commissioner to conduct the lottery when the town [57] was established; he was the first member of the House of Commons from Robeson, and succeeded John Willis as Senator, serving seven terms. Iam unable to trace Neil Brown, but the chances all are that he was from the Philadelphus section. John Regan was afterward clerk of the Court of Pleas and Quarter Sessions. Sion Alford was a son of Jacob Alford, progenitor of the Alford family in Robeson, in whose honor Alfords- ville township was named. John Cade was a distinguished man. He was a son-in- law of the famous Dr. James Robert (Robin) Adair, in whose honor a memorial was recently erected by the Colonial Dames at Ashpole Presbyterian Church near Rowland. Cade was a large land owner, even in that day of large land holdings, and owned thousands of acres on Ashpole, Wilkinson and Shoeheel Swamps. He was the second largest slave-holder in the county. While not a lawyer, he was acquainted with legal terms to the extent that he was a skilled conveyancer. Several deeds, more than 150 years old, written in his own hand, are in the possession of my friend David Townsend, of Rowland. Cade’s handwriting was beautiful, but his spelling was simply atrocious! The signing of sheriff's bonds has always been risky. Samuel Porter was the first high sheriff of Robeson, and gave bond with John Cade and Sampson Bridgers as sureties. Bridgers was also one of the commissioners who laid out the town of Lumberton. A few years after Robe- son was established, General Willis, Senator from Robe- son, presented to the Senate a memorial from Cade and Bridgers reciting that they were sureties on Porter’s bond, that the State treasurer was about to issue execution against them on a judgment and they were threatened with ruin. They prayed the General Assembly to give [58] them time to pay up! A resolution was duly passed by both houses to that effect! But the sheriff did not fare so well. His lands were sold under execution, and as they were bid in by Elias Barnes, a friend of John Cade’s, it Must be presumed they were bid in for the benefit of the unfortunate sureties. AN OUTLINE OF THE ROBESON COUNTY BAR I HAVE been unable to prepare a history of the Robeson Bar, but have undertaken to sketch an outline in the hope that a copy may be preserved in the vault in the Glerk’s office to the end that at least the names of the members of our notable Bar may be preserved for pos- terity. Even this has not been done heretofore, and there are even new names on the old appearance dockets of lawyers I have been unable to trace. Fame is a most tran- sient quality, and almost as soon as a man passes from the scene of action, his glory fades away. “Change and decay in all around I see.” The only source of the names of the early lawyers who appeared in our local courts is the old “appearance dock- ets” in the clerk’s office. Even here you have to guess, as there were no typewriters in those days, and things were shortened and abbreviated as much as possible. Only the surnames of the lawyers were listed, such as McLean for plaintiff; French for defendant. This was not very helpful as there were several McLean’s and two lawyers named French. However, I think I have succeeded in tracing most of the old appearances. In these early days there were not even any pleadings, the courts of law and equity being separate; and the law- yers noted in latin what their pleas were: “not est factum” (he did not make it); “nil dicit”; “indebitas assumpsit,” and the like. And when there were any pleadings they were of the common law type—John Doe v. Richard Roe —such as is described in Warren’s famous novel for [ 60 ] lawyers “Ten Thousand a Year” which should be read by every young lawyer who would know anything of the common law. It has been hard to even determine the manner in Which to mention the various members of our Bar, or the order in which to place them. I have tried several ways ce doing this, and am utterly dissatisfied with the follow- ing plan, but have been unable to find a better one. Firm Names change, partners retire, go elsewhere, or pass away; others take their places and the picture changes from year to year. Someone criticised the proverbs of Solomon, whereupon the critic was requested to write a proverb of his own. So if my method of arrangement is unsatisfactory, choose a method of your own. The earliest appearance at the Robeson Bar was largely by lawyers from the older Bars of Fayetteville and Eliza- bethtown. The following names occur frequently upon the old dockets: 1. JOHN D. TOOMER, of Fayetteville. Justice of the Supreme Court. 2. ROBERT STRANGE, of Fayetteville. Superior Court Judge and United States Senator. 3. JAMES C. DOBBIN, of Fayetteville. Speaker of the House, Congressman; Secretary of the Navy; father of hos- Pitals for the Insane in Carolina; outstanding statesman of his day. See my article on Secretary Dobbin in my book “Here in Carolina” under the caption “The Naming of Dix Hill”. 4. JAMES J. McKAY, of Elizabethtown. United States District Attorney; Congressman and Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee. ’ : 5. WILLIAM DUFFY, of Fayetteville. Seriously [61] wounded in a duel with another outstanding Fayetteville lawyer, Judge Duncan Cameron. The first homicide case ever reported in North Carolina came from Robeson and Duffy appeared for the defend- ant. His client was convicted, sentenced to be hung, and Duffy appealed the case to the old “Court of Conference” before its name was changed to the Supreme Court. See State v. Carter, 1 N. C. 12i. Duffy moved in arrest of judgment for that: (a) in the indictment the term of court (1800) was written in numerals instead of letters; and (b) because in the indictment which fixed the loca- tion of the lethal wound, the word breast was spelled “brest.” The court held that our brother Duffy was just too technical on his first points; but four out of five Judges were with him on the second. He won his case—quite a habit with practitioners at the Robeson Bar! 6. THOMAS C. FULLER, of Fayetteville. Confederate officer; Congressman; Judge United States Supreme Court of Claims. Colonel Fuller was the father of Williamson W. ‘Fuller, general counsel for the American Tobacco Com- pany, and attorney for James B. Duke; Frank L. Fuller, general counsel for Liggett and Myers; and James Fuller, prominent member of the Durham Bar. The names “Haigh” and “Winslow” also appear, and as these are both Fayetteville names, undoubtedly the law- yers so named were of the Cumberland Bar. 4. JOHN D. SHAW, of Rockingham. Major Shaw was one of the outstanding lawyers of his day, and appeared in most of the important litigation, including the famous “McDougald” capital felony at Fayetteville. For nearly 50 years he represented the railroads now known as the Sea- board Air Line. He was the father of the brilliant John D. [ 62] Shaw, Jr., of the Laurinburg Bar, who tried the famous McDougald case. The late James McNeill Johnson of the Moore county Bar once wrote a history of the “McNeill family,” one of its branches being the “Proud McNeills.” He said father Noah invited one of these “Proud” McNeills to have a seat in his ark, but that the McNeill politely declined his invi- tation, saying “I have a boat of my own’. So Robeson soon acquired a Bar of her own. Undoubtedly the oldest legal firm in Robeson County, and one of the oldest in the State, is the firm now known as McLEAN AND STACY, which can trace its title back to 1840. Beginning with Alexander McLean its member- ship has included Col. N. A. McLean, Sr., Col. N. A. McLean, Jr., Claudius B. Townsend, Governor Angus W. McLean, W. B. Snow, J. Gilchrist McCormick, Judge L. R. Varser and its present members Dickson McLean and Horace E. Stacy. 1. ALEXANDER McLEAN was one of the leaders of the Cape Fear Bar beginning the practice around 1840. From his family a line of lawyers extends to today. 2. COLONEL NEILL ARCHIE McLEAN, SR., who came to the Bar in 1855 and was for years an outstanding legal figure. But he is best known to present day Robe- sonians because he was the father of the brilliant: 3. COLONEL NEILL ARCHIE McLEAN, JR. He was the most powerful trial lawyer I have ever known. 4. CLAUDIUS B. TOWNSEND, for many years Clerk of the Superior Court; bank president and business execu- tive. He is the oldest living graduate of Duke University. Long since retired, he ranks yet as Dean at our Bar. 5. GOVERNOR ANGUS WILTON McLEAN, Chair- man of the War Finance Corporation, Assistant Secretary [ 63 ] United States Treasury; Governor of his state; nationally known banker, business executive, master builder. See sketch elsewhere herein. 6. WILLIAM B. SNOW, native of Raleigh and son of one of the State’s most distinguished lawyers, George H. Snow of the Raleigh Bar. Mr. Snow practiced several years at our Bar as a member of the McLean firm before return- ing to Raleigh. 4. J. GILCHRIST McCORMICK, one of the most tal- ented men of his day, possessing one of the brightest minds of any man of my acquaintance. He moved to Wilmington becoming an executive of the Acme Fertilizer Company, of which his uncle, William McCormick, was the titular head. 8. JAMES DICKSON McLEAN, who has followed the example of Grover Cleveland and Woodrow Wilson, and shortened his name to simply Dickson. He is a cousin of Col. Neill Archie McLean, Governor Angus Wilton McLean, and the host of the Maxton McLeans hereinafter referred to. He is a lawyer of conspicuous ability, not merely at home but throughout the State, distinguished as much for his high character as for his legal ability. Member of the Council of the State Bar. Examplar of all that is best as associated with the name McLean. 9g. HORACE E. STACY, who is an outstanding leader in other fields as well as in law. One of the best trial law- yers Carolina possesses, he has also found time to render excellent service to yet two other causes: (a) the public schools; and (b) the Methodist Church. When anything is needed to be done along educational or religious lines, a hurry call is sent out for Stacy. He is as fine a man and as big a lawyer as his brother, our Chief Justice. Now let us dip back into the past and bring up some of [ 64 ] the lawyers who were contemporaries of Alexander Mc- Lean when he founded the firm above referred to: 10. NATHANIEL McLEAN, outstanding member of the Robeson Bar for many years, actively engaged in the practice, his name often appearing upon the dockets. Said to have been a man of outstanding character as well as of large legal ability. 11. GILES E. LEITCH, a notable figure at our Bar, and it was in his office that numerous lawyers received their legal training and education. His office stood on court house square on the southeast corner of Fourth and Chestnut streets. 12. ROBERT E. TROY, another of the towering fig- ures of the ante-bellum Robeson. In the act of 1812, set- ting up a municipal government for Lumberton, else- where referred to in this volume, he was designated as Magistrate (Mayor). He was also Master of St. Alban’s Lodge A. F.& A. M. 13. ROBERT S. FRENCH was likewise a prominent figure of the old Bar, and in the act above referred to he was named as one of the Lumberton Commissioners. He later moved to Wilmington and was elected as Judge of the Superior Court. 14. COLONEL WILLIAM FOSTER FRENCH, was One of the most famous trial lawyers of his day. He was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Confederate service (73rd. Junior Reserves) ; legislator; leader of the Democratic Party in the days of reconstruction. It. was to him that General William R. Cox sent the famous “As you love your State hold Robeson”’ telegram. See the article “Hold Es elsewhere in this volume. His junior partner as: _ 15. CAPTAIN WILLIAM S. NORMENT, of the Con- federate army; Solicitor; a man in the van of the famous [ 65] Robeson family of that name. See a sketch of his career elsewhere in this volume. 16. COLONEL ALFRED ROWLAND, Confederate soldier; Congressman; outstanding lawyer and distin- guished citizen, descendant of a long line of ancestors associated with Robeson from its beginning. See sketch of Colonel Rowland elsewhere in this volume. His son: 17. JOHN A. ROWLAND, was one of the finest men I have ever known. Disabled by physical disability in early manhood, he served with high distinction as Mayor of Lumberton and as the first Recorder of our local court. He had as fine a sense of judicial temper as any man could possess. There were few appeals from his decisions. 18. JUDGE THOMAS A. McNEILL, sturdy example of the hardy Scotch stock from which he sprang, and from whose Presbyterian ministry he inherited the strength of his rugged character. See sketch of the Judge elsewhere in this volume. His son: 19. THOMAS A. McNEILL, the younger, former So- licitor of this District, and one of the ablest of present day trial lawyers. He had certain outstanding qualities during his sixteen years of service as Solicitor: his absolute fair- ness; and if he did not believe a defendant guilty he would not prosecute. One of the few Solicitors I have known who thought it his duty to see that the defendant had justice as well as the State. 20. JOHN CHARLES McNEILL practiced his profes- sion here for several years, also editing a newspaper known as the “Argus.” One of the few pure geniuses our State has produced. Famous man of letters and Poet Laureate of eo is . Next to the McLean firm above referred to, the Steir legal firm in Robeson is that to which I will refer as the PROCTOR FIRM, established originally as [66] “PROCTOR AND McINTYRE” in 1898, of which firm there have been various members including, in order of time, Robert C. Lawrence, James D. Proctor, Robert A. McIntyre, Judge L. R. Varser and Ozmer L. Henry, the firm as now constituted being VARSER, McINTYRE and HENRY. 22. EDWARD KNOX PROCTOR, senior of the original firm was one of the largest figures of his day, both in Lumberton and in the county, known for the high quality of his public service, for his devotion to the cause of prohibition and to the Baptist Church. An imposing monument has but recently been erected to his memory at Proctorville (named in his honor), thirty five years after his death. This, in itself, is a striking tribute to the Manner of man that he was. He was a trustee of Wake Forest College, a founder of Robeson Institute, connected with every worthwhile movement of his day. See a sketch of him elsewhere in this work. His four sons all became lawyers: James Dick, hereinafter referred to; Edward Knox III, outstanding member of the Whiteville Bar; John G. (Gillie) hereinafter referred to; and Robert W., leader of the Marion Bar where he was in partnership with Supreme Court Justice J. Wallace Winborne. The junior partner of Edward Knox Proctor was: 23. STEPHEN McINTYRE, eminent trial lawyer; Outstanding educator; leader of civic and religious causes Upon a Statewide field. Outstanding member of an out- Standing Bar. See sketch devoted to him in another part of this volume. 24. ROBERT C. LAWRENCE, author of this outline, who moved here from Raleigh in 1903 and became the partner of Mr. McIntyre which continued until his death in 1926. He was thereafter a member of the firm now [ 67] known as Varser, McIntyre and Henry, until forced to retire from the practice due to ill health. 25. JAMES DICK PROCTOR, one of the most careful, thorough and painstaking office lawyers. He was I think, the most popular man of his day, and the sweetest spirit I have ever known. His family had the unique distinction that his grandfather, his father, and he himself, all served as Mayor of our town. He had been nominated to the Senate when an untimely death cut short a career of large usefulness. 26. ROBERT A. McINTYRE, son of Stephen McIntyre, follows in the footsteps of his distinguished father along many lines. As did his father, he served as Senator in the recent legislature; as was his father, he is a trustee of and attorney for the Thomasville Baptist Orphanage (Mills Home) ; as was his father, he is a Dea- con in the First Baptist Church. Still young. 27. JUDGE LYCURGUS RAYNER VARSER, born in Gates county. There is a contention as to who is the biggest man Gates ever produced, some contending it was William P. Roberts, youngest General in the Confederate service. I knew both men and I am committed to Varser. He came to Lumberton from Kinston and became at first a member of the McLean firm above referred to. His ability was such that Governor McLean placed him upon the Supreme Court Bench. Following the death of Stephen McIntyre, he resigned from that bench and returned to Lumberton ‘to head the firm of Varser, Lawrence and McIntyre, hereinafter referred to. For his ability to tell you what the law is, I rank him but slightly lower than Dean Samuel Mordecai, founder of the Duke Law School, who knew more than any man I have ever known. The Judge is chairman of the Board of Law Examiners and connected with practically everything that goes on in [ 68] circles in which either the law or the Baptist church is Connected. _ 28. OZMER L. HENRY began the practice at Rock- Ingham, coming to Lumberton in 1930. He is an excellent lawyer, a safe counsellor, an outstanding leader in civic and religious affairs. Still young and growing. 29. INGRAM P. HEDGPETH is also associated with the Varser firm—one of the youngest members of the Bar, who, if he cannot tell you what the law is has the power to locate it. He is a young man of much promise, toward whom Robesonians feel kindly not only on his own ac- count but on account of his beloved father, the venerable Rey. I. P. Hedgpeth. 30. ROBERT EDWARD LEE is the dean of those now practicing at our Bar. He has an excellent record behind him and I hope my friend lives many years, as he 1s the only one who stands between me and the deanship, an office I do not covet. His junior partner is his son: 31. W. OSBORNE LEE, quite at home both in his Office and in the courts, still young, vigorous and active both at the Bar and in the business life of the town. 82. EVERETT J. BRITT, two days the writer’s junior at our Bar; for many years County Attorney; legislator; Sunday School superintendent; trustee of Meredith Col- lege; Baptist Deacon; one of the largest farmers in the County; one of its most trusted leaders. Man of outstand- tng character and ability, who has lived a life of great Usefulness. His junior partner is: 33. LUTHER J. BRITT, trial lawyer noted for his ability as a speaker. If your windows rattle it may not be storm brewing, it may be Luther just getting under way before a jury. Excellent trial lawyer. 34. CHARLES B. SKIPPER, for the past twenty years Clerk of the Superior Court; and even more popular now, [ 69 ] both as a Clerk and as a man, than he was even then. An efficient man in any capacity; no enemies; thousands of friends, a man who can look back upon his life without regrets. He also sings. Since these lines were written Charlie has passed away. 35. R. A. McLEAN, known to his intimates as “Gus.” Son of Col. Neill Archie McLean, Sr., and a young lawyer of much promise when an untimely death cut short a promising career. . 36. WILLIAM S. BRITT, better known as “Billy,” excellent trial lawyer; Senator; large farmer; man of wide usefulness. When I came to Lumberton his partner was his brother: 37. EVANDER M. BRITT, who looked largely after the office practice leaving most of the courthouse work to Billy. Died many years since, when hardly in his prime. Associated with the firm of Britt and Britt there was also: 38. CHARLES BRITT, their kinsman, a young lawyer of promise who moved to Elizabethtown and met an un- timely death in an automobile accident; and a nephew of Billy, the present: 39. JAMES C. KING, young lawyer of promise and ability who has an attractive career in front of him. 40. WADE HAMPTON KINLAW, who in addition to the active practice of the law has served as Postmaster, as United States Commissioner, is now Conciliator in Bankruptcy and occupies an influential position in the councils of the political party to which he belongs. A man of high character, trusted by all who know him. 41. THOMAS L. JOHNSON moved to Lumberton after the time the writer did, and later a firm was estab- lished known as the JOHNSON FIRM. Associated with which were several members including J. Abner Barker, E. Moseby Johnson, William Y. Floyd, William E. Tim- [70] berlake and others. Mr. Johnson was a lawyer of outstand- ing ability and was appointed to the Supreme Court Bench, later removing to Asheville where he is now a leader of the Asheville Bar. Associated with him in his early days was: 42. J. ABNER BARKER, native of Robeson; excellent lawyer who later moved to Sampson county where he became Senator, and in the last election was elected as Solicitor of his District. 43. E. MOSEBY JOHNSON, brother of Judge Thomas L., for many years and now Mayor of Lumberton; out- standing leader at the Bar and in civic and religious life; man of the highest character. After the removal of his brother to Asheville he founded the firm of Johnson and Floyd, the junior member being: 44. WILLIAM Y. FLOYD, excellent office lawyer, Whose death at an early age was a distinct loss to his Profession. Associated with the Johnson firm at the present ume is: 45. WILLIAM E. TIMBERLAKE, one of the best ex- amples of the younger Bar; a man of high character and great promise. I look for him to become a leading member of the Bar when he catches his full stride. 46. DAVID H. FULLER, graduate of Harvard, served as Captain during the World War, and in the front line trenches in France. Since then he has served as Senator and as Attorney for the Board of Commissioners of our County, which position he still holds. The Captain is good at the trial of cases at nisi prius, or in the briefing of cases for the Supreme Court. But I think his best day’s service for himself was when he married Miss Wilma, daughter of our beloved townsman Rev. Dr. Charles H. Durham. eae JOHN G. PROCTOR, affectionately known as Gillie,” a balanced lawyer, with the judicial tempera- [71] ment. He was for many years Recorder here, holding that position until his voluntary retirement. 48. W. BERT IVEY, who has long been a member of the Lumberton Bar, now serving as Recorder, a man popular with his brethren and with all who know him. 49. F. ERTLE CARLYLE, has developed as rapidly as any lawyer of my acquaintance, and at the last election was elected as Solicitor of this District, which important post he is filling with distincton. He should advance far along the road which he now travels. 50. FRANK D. HACKETT, Jr., who has been at the Lumberton Bar for many years and who is an excellent lawyer, and resourceful in finding any hidden point in any case, and in finding an opposite authority. 51. HENRY A. McKINNON, started in the practice at Maxton, but moved to Lumberton some years since where he is now senior member of McKinnon, Nance and Seawell. Henry is a fine all round lawyer, a man of high character; large usefulness. The next member of his firm is: 52. JAMES R. NANCE, one of the best of the younger trial lawyers. He was formerly Solicitor of the Recorder’s Court, and one of the best equipped of our younger brethren. The junior member of the McKinnon firm is: 53. MALCOLM SEAWELL, who but lately removed from Raleigh, having married a daughter of Prof. J. R. Poole. He is a son of Supreme Court Justice A. A. F. Sea- well, and those who know him best say that he inherits a large measure of his father’s ability. 54. ELLIS E. PAGE, native of Lumberton, where his father of the same name was an outstanding business executive. A young man of fine character and excellent promise of success in his chosen profession. 55. WESLEY C. WATTS, now Solicitor of the Re- [72] corder’s Court, and one of the ablest of the younger mem- bers of the profession—perhaps I should say middle aged members, because Wesley is not as young as he once was. But his increasing years have also brought increasing pro- fessional knowledge and ability. 56. GEORGE T. DEANS, one of the outstanding men of the young trial lawyers; a man of great energy; large Capacity with a promise of usefulness already being ful- filled. 57. J. E. CARPENTER, Captain during ‘the World War, began the practice at Maxton; hard worker; render- ing his clients able and conscientious service. 58. LESLIE J. HUNTLEY, also a man of restless energy and large capacity, religious leader also. He served as Recorder until his voluntary retirement. 58. (A) WILLIAM H. HUMPHREY, Jr., son of the father of the same name, who was for so many years Clerk of the Superior Court; a hard worker, as capable as he is energetic. 58 (B) B. M. SIBLEY, one of the best business men at our Bar, with a background of efficient and highly capable service in business before he came to the Bar. 59. ROBERT E. FLOYD, seriously handicapped by bodily infirmity, his mind retains its full vigor, and not- withstanding his handicap he went to the University, Studied law, passed a severe examination and was admitted to the Bar. He makes a most creditable showing in the Courts and possesses an excellent knowledge of the law. 60. ROBERT WEINSTEIN, son of our townsman Aaron Weinstein. I had the honor of introducing Robert to the court when he was admitted to the Bar, and I do Hot believe our Bar ever acquired a finer gentleman or a lawyer of more promise. 61. A. C. WALKER, native of Maxton, a young man [73] of high character and fine legal ability, who should go far in the field of the lawyer. 62. CASWELL P. BRITT, member of the Britt family which has furnished so many members of the Robeson Bar. He once practiced at Fairmont where he was Solicitor to the Recorder’s Court. A man of large promise. 63. FRANK McNEILL, one of the ablest of the young members of the Bar, member of the recent legislature, at home either before the court or in the consultation cham- ber. Moreover an excellent man of business, and interested in more than one enterprise of promise to our town. Now for a moment let us go back into the past and bring up several men who passed away many years ago: 64. ABNER NASH, scion of the famous Nash Family of Hillsboro, which produced so many famous Generals, Governors and other outstanding men. He knew more about land titles than any man of his day. He was a gentlemanly gentleman. 65. BRUCE MORRISON, son of Register of Deeds John H. Morrison, full of promise but died young. 66. WADE WISHART, one of my classmates at Wake Forest law school. Wade was a good lawyer too, and when I came to Lumberton his junior partner was: 67. DUNCAN PRESTON SHAW, son of Angus L. Shaw of Lumber Bridge. Press was also a good lawyer, represented his county in the legislature, and would have gone far had not an early death shortened a career of great usefulness. He. married a daughter of Col. Alfred Row- land. 68. JUNIUS J. GOODWIN, native of Raleigh, moving here was at first associated with the McLean firm, but later practiced alone. One of the most careful, industrious and capable lawyers I have ever known. 69. NORMENT PREVATT, son of “Little Jimmie” [74] Prevatt. A young man of great promise, he died at an early age after only two years at our Bar. Let us now take leave of the Lumberton Bar and catch Just a glimpse of the COUNTY BAR, beginning at Max- ton: 70. JAMES PAYNE, ante-bellum lawyer of whose tecord I have been able to learn little. He lived near Alma, where his office can still be seen in the yard of his resi- dence by the side of the Lumberton-Maxton road. One of _ his daughters married Judge Cameron MacRae. 71. GILBERT PATTERSON, legislator; Congress- man; man of outstanding ability, foremost figure in his Section. See sketch of him elsewhere in this volume. A portrait of Gilbert Patterson should by all means by added to those now in our court room. 72. WILLIAM BLACK, affectionately known as “‘Cap- tain Willie,” man of large ability, who left the law for the Ministry, becoming evangelist of the Presbyterian Synod. See sketch of him elsewhere in this volume. 73. ANGUS DHU McLEAN, who passed his legal Career at Washington, N. C., was a native of Maxton and became an outstanding legal figure in the State. He also became distinguished as a legislator, and served with bril- liancy as Assistant Attorney General of the United States, where he argued the famous “Gold case” and other cases of large importance for the government. See sketch of him elsewhere in this volume. 74. SYLVESTER B. McLEAN, brother of Angus Dhu, Was also an outstanding lawyer, Solicitor of this District. He followed the example of William Black, and entered the Presbyterian ministry, being the beloved pastor of Wilmore Presbyterian church at Charlotte. His younger brother: J. PLUMMER WIGGINS, a man of great ability [75] who started in the practice at Maxton with Solicitor S. B. McLean. Wiggins could have gone far at the Bar had not the call of other vocations lured him thither. He was for years president of the Bank of Maxton; he served as editor of the Laurinburg Exchange; and he now ably edits ““The Voice” here in Lumberton. 75. JOHN ALLEN McLEAN was one of the most bril- liant lawyers I ever knew, embarked upon a promising career as partner of Congressman John G. Shaw of Fayette- ville, when he too decided to enter the Presbyterian ministry. He has served for many years as pastor of Ginter Park church at Richmond, Va., and is one of the outstand- ing preachers of the Presbyterian faith. 476. B. F. McLEAN, a lawyer of the “old school.” While he appeared frequently in court, he liked the office prac- tice better. He was long postmaster at Maxton, United States Commissioner, and held other positions of trust and confidence. 77. JOHN H. COOK, a man of large capacity was once an editor, and as editor of the Laurinburg Exchange, headed the movement which placed a monument on court square there to the memory of Professor William G. Quakenbush. His junior partner was his brother: 78. LEON T. COOK, who was developing into a law- yer of much promise when he moved to Oklahoma. 79. JAMES A. SHAW has practiced his profession with success for the past decade and is now Solicitor of the Recorder’s Court. A man of high character and large use- fulness. 80. ANGUS MEDLIN, one of the younger members of the Maxton bar, is a man of high character and bids fair to develop into one of the outstanding men of his section. His twin brother practices at Pembroke, but r shall list him here under the Maxton Bar: [76 ] spirit 81. GILBERT MEDLIN possesses the same character- istics which distinguish his twin brother Angus above referred to. Now let us go to Red Springs and take a view of the members of its Bar, at the head of which must be placed 4 conspicuous figure of a former day: 82. HAMILTON McMILLAN, cultured and scholarly gentleman doing more of an office than a court house prac- tice. As legislator he was responsible for the enactment of legislation giving our Indians their separate racial status and separate schools. A lover of literature, he was author of an authoritative monograph on the “Lost Colony of Sir Walter Raleigh” from which was condensed my own article of the same title. See this sketch published else- where in this volume. 83. A. P. SPELL, veteran leader of the Red Springs Bar, where he has practiced for many years, and where he has Served both his county and his community, enjoying the confidence and esteem of all who know him. 84. ZEBULON V. McMILLAN, son of the beloved Dr. B. F. McMillan, brother of sheriff B. F. McMillan and Dr. Roscoe D. McMillan. He inherited a large meas- ure of his father’s ability and has a friendliness of spirit which popularizes him with all his acquaintances. 85. C. D. RATLEY, one of the younger brethren, now Solicitor of the Recorder’s Court; a young man of excellent Promise, both as a man and as a lawyer. Now let us go to Saint Pauls where we sketch through its Bar, headed by its veteran Dean: 86. JOHN S. BUTLER, who has practiced there for Many years. John S. has served as legislator; Recorder; Cotton Mills President; and in other useful capacities. He is a good trial lawyer, a safe and sane counsellor and an all round useful man. [77] 87. JOHN D. CANADY, has also practiced his profes- sion for many years with conspicuous ability. He also served as Recorder at St. Pauls and enjoys the confidence and esteem of the community. 88. D. SCOTT HOWIE is a rising figure at the St. Pauls Bar; a man of large capacity; energetic and useful. Former Solicitor of the Recorder’s court; all round useful man 89. JOHN REGAN, young member of the Bar, mem- ber of the outstanding Regan family of the St. Pauls sec- tion, is now Solicitor of the Recorder’s court. He is a young man of much promise, enjoying the confidence of all who know him. Now come to Fairmont, where those who were at the Bar when I was in practice have all passed away, but where a new generation has come upon the scene of action: go. V. H. TAYLOR, best at home in trying a criminal case in the Recorder’s Court, which he could handle with skill and ability. g1. GEORGE L. GRANTHAM, better in the office than in the courthouse, excellent man of business and highly esteemed everywhere. George died but a few days ago, lamented by a wide circle of friends. g2. WAYLAND FLOYD, a younger member of the Bar, who has entered upon the practice since my own retirement, but I learn from others that he has promise of wide usefulness and has both the ability and the power to make use of that ability. 93- DAVID M. BRITT, outstanding member of the rising bar in Southern Robeson. Those who know him say that he is a man of large ability and much legal capacity and should go far in the profession. 94. M. L. PAGE, member of the Page family so promi- nent in the life of Southern Robeson. But recently come — [78] to the Bar; spoken of well by all who know him, both as to his gifts as a lawyer and his character as a man. Now we close the legal circuit at Rowland where its Bar is headed by the veteran Dean: 95. WILLIAM E. LYNCH, Senator, man of fine ability, who holds the confidence of his community and who has, I trust yet before him years of useful service to his people. 96. R. L. CAMPBELL, an active and rising young law- yer, now Solicitor of the Recorder’s court; well regarded by all who know him, and with a growing practice which he handles with ability. 97. F. L. ADAMS, son of my old friend S. L. Adams, so Many years a leader of the Rowland community. Report has it that the son is following in the footsteps of his father and bids fair to take the place in legal circles which his father occupied during his life as a merchant and large farmer. I doubt not the foregoing contains errors of omission and that I shall be mortified hereafter to find that I have Omitted the name of some friends who should have been included. Such omissions as may have occurred are, of course, due to lapse of memory. The Bar of Robeson from the beginning has occupied a high position as one of the outstanding Bars of the State, a Bar which has possessed the confidence of our Judges as few Bars have done. Today it worthily maintains the traditions of its great past. The dedication page of this Volume shows that it bears a word in honor of my brethren of the Bar. Even as I write these lines there comes the news of the death of my friend, of fifty years, the venerable and loved Frank A. Daniels. “The seasons change: the winds they shift and veer.” Judge Henry Groves Connor; Judge Charles M. Cooke; Judge Oliver H. Allen; James H. Pou, [79] Sr.; my friends of former days, have ‘‘one by one crept silently to rest.” I would I could recall the days when Col. Neill Archie McLean, Stephen McIntyre, Gilbert Patterson, Gover- nor Angus Wilton McLean and other great lawyers of a day that is gone, occupied the front line trenches along the lines of the legal battlefield. These were not only fine lawyers, they were fine gentlemen—men with whom agree- ments did not have to be put into writing; they were men of high character and lofty ideals. I can but commend their example to their younger brethren, for the inspira- tion of their lives and service. But two men are left of the Robeson Bar as constituted when I first knew it: Robert E. Lee and Everett J. Britt and soon I too must join the “innumerable caravan” of my friends of former days who have gone on before. “T feel as one who treads alone, Some banquet hall deserted, Whose lights are fled and garlands dead, And all but me departed.” [ 80] MEMORIES OF BENCH AND BAR— IN LIGHTER VEIN WHEN I enter the court room in Robeson’s courthouse, I seem to feel the spirits of the great lawyers of a former day hovering over me—Robert E. Troy, N. A. McLean, Sr., Giles Leitch, Franklin McNeill, Col. William F. French, Judge Thomas A. McNeill, Col. Alfred Rowland, Capt. William S. Norment, Edward K. Proctor. And I seem to hear once again the voices of the great lawyers of My own day—the cold, incisive logic of John D. Shaw, Jr., the brilliant cross-examinations of Col. N. A. McLean; the impassioned eloquence of my partner Stephen McIn- tyre; I sense once more the calm reasoned arguments of Wilton McLean; I feel once more the mighty power of Gilbert Patterson when finally roused to action. Memories Sweep over me. Today Robert E. Lee is the dean of the local Bar, but Everett J. Britt and I follow closely after him. I too am growing old: I came to Lumberton in 1903, to form a partnership with Stephen McIntyre. My first client appeared next Morning. He asked for the lawyer, and Mr. McIntyre was courteous enough to point to me as such. He was an aged man who was having trouble with a neighbor over a land line. He laid before me something over a peck of old deeds and ancient documents. He discoursed at length upon his Claims to the land and the evil disposition of his neighbor. I heard him with interest and examined his papers with attention. Late in the afternoon I reluctantly gave him my Opinion that he had no case. He then inquired what my [ 81] charge was. I was young then and green—not to say verdant. Modestly I requested him to fix the charge him- self. He said he always believed in paying his lawyers, and reached down into his pocket he pulled out—fifty cents. But I still retained just a little of my legal schooling: I took the money! * * * * * The following week I tried my first case before Squire W. H. Graham, near Rowland. I was prosecuting a man for letting his hogs run at large; Colonel McLean was defending. The Colonel and I drove out there behind a pair of horses, and quite a trip it was in those days. The Squire called the case, and the Colonel said his client would plead guilty. The Squire fined him $1.00 and costs. I felt highly elated. The Colonel had laid down without a struggle. He must be scared of the young lawyer who had just moved to Lumberton from the big city of Raleigh! My client and I were a short distance off chortling over the discomfiture of our adversary, when the Constable appeared. He had a warrant to serve on MY client. What for? For letting his hogs run at large. Who was the accuser? Colonel McLean’s client! I asked my client what about it. He said he was guilty. We went back into court and I submitted him. The Squire fined him $1.00 and costs. The net result: Squire Graham collected two bills of cost; I got $15.00; the Colonel got $25.00; our respective clients—well they got satisfaction. They had fought each other to a standstill. Big litigation! * * * * * I soon saw Judge Thomas A. McNeill. I had met his honor before and under different circumstances. In 1898 I was a clerk in the office of Col. John W. Hinsdale of [82] Raleigh, and he was employed to appeal a case which Judge McNeill had tried in Harnett County. There were No court reports in those days, but the Judge took down Notes of the testimony and wrote out his charge to the Jury in long hand. We got the papers and the Colonel told me to copy the Judge’s notes on the typewriter so that he could make up the case on appeal. I tried to do this, but could make neither head nor tail to the writing. Thinking that perhaps I had the paper upside down, I reversed it but it looked even worse that way than the other. The Colonel tried his hand at it but with no better success. Judge McNeill was at Hendersonville—300 miles away— but I was sent there with instructions to have the Judge read his notes and copy them down. I got there all right, saw the Judge, had a lovely time, but did not get what I went after. THE JUDGE COULD NOT READ HIS NOTES EITHER! : * * * * * Sibbie McLean of Maxton (now the Rev. Sylvester B. McLean of Charlotte) was Solicitor many years ago and 2 very able one. Sibbie was one of the finest men I ever knew and an excellent lawyer, but he had all the sternness of the Puritan and if he believed a man was guilty, he would not only prosecute him vigorously, but sometimes Msist on adequate punishment. One of the Fayetteville lawyers tried a criminal case at Raeford and lost. Sibbie got up and demanded the maxi- mum punishment, which the Judge imposed. The attorney for the defendant walked down the street with me and temarked gloomily: “That durn Sibbie McLean gets down On his knees every morning and prays God for strength for just this one day to be as hard on poor criminals as he can be.” [ 83 ] Sibbie and his brilliant brother, John Allen, were both able lawyers and both had attractive legal careers before them, but abandoned the law for the Presbyterian min- istry. And they have been eminently successful in this, Sibbie in Charlotte; John Allen in Richmond. SIBBIE HAS NOW QUIT PROSECUTING AND IS APPEAR- ING FOR THE DEFENDANTS. - I was just kidding you about Sibbie’s being a Puritan. His heart is very mellow. \ * * * * * Judge Charles M. Cooke was an excellent man and a great lawyer, but he sometimes had a rough tongue which could be quite disconcerting to a young lawyer. The Judge was holding court in Bladen, when up jumped a young lawyer to make a motion. ‘““Who are you?” asked the Judge. “Why my name is thus-and-so,” replied the young at- torney. “Your honor must remember that I met you down in Wilmington a month ago.” The Judge shook his head solemnly. “You can’t put that over on this court. IF THIS COURT HAD EVER SEEN THAT .FACE ONCE, THIS COURT WOULD NOT HAVE FORGOTTEN 168 Bae * * * * * Judge Cooke once decided a question of law against me, and I was young and foolish enough to get mad about it. Next day we were hearing an injunction case. Dickson McLean read affidavits all that morning, and that after- noon as I read mine the old Judge was apparently fast asleep. My feelings were still ruffled, and I quit reading and sat down. “Wake him up,” loudly whispered Dickson across the table. “Let the old fool sleep,” I loudly whis- pered back. The Judge did not move or open his eyes, but said: “Go on boys, I’m listening.” [84] When court adjourned, I sought to apologize to the court. His honor heard what I had to say and then re- marked brightly: “Oh that’s all right, 1 USED TO BE A YOUNG FOOL MYSELF.” And I began to feel foolish myself! * * * * * I walked with Judge Robert B. Peebles from the court house at Fayetteville. Ahead of us walked one of Caro- lina’s most brilliant lawyers, but a man whom his honor did not like. Said the judge: “‘You see so-and-so yonder? He is one of the ablest lawyers I know of, but he is so cold blooded that aye Gad IF YOU WERE TO STICK A KNIFE INTO HIM ICE WATER WOULD RUN Owe * * * * * It was to Clinton that an eminent lawyer came to try a Case. He got to playing a game I understand they call “poker”, and to imbibing a little too freely, with the result that he was hors du combat for two days. The local paper got hold of it, and had something to say. The eminent lawyer was mortified, humiliated—in fact desolated. The local lawyers gathered in his room to console him, but the Sathering was thick with gloom until the eminent one began to laugh heartily. “It’s all right, boys,” said he, “Next week someone else will do some fool thing and the PUBLIG WILL TAKE AFTER HIM AND FORGET ALL ABOUT ME.” All of which is worthy of Will Rogers in its homely philosophy. * * * * * Wilton McLean was trying to get a juror excused upon the grounds that he was so deaf he could not hear what the witness said. “How long has the poor fellow been deaf,” asked Judge Oliver H. Allen in a low voice. “Five [ 85] years,” piped up the juryman. “TAKE A SEAT IN THE BOX FOR ONE WEEK” replied his honor. * * * * * Judge Harding was holding court at Laurinburg. A member of the local bar was arguing a question of law. Said the Judge. “Brother so-and-so, have you read the case of Doe v. Roe? I think it meets your case squarely.” “No, your honor,” replied the Laurinburg lawyer, “I NEVER READ THE AUTHORITIES. THEY SIMPLY CON- FUSE ME!” * * * * * It was also at Laurinburg, that this same lawyer, a most successful practitioner, was arguing a legal question before the court. Said the Judge: ‘“‘Brother so-and-so, do you really think this is the law?” “No, your honor,” said the lawyer, “BUT I DID NOT KNOW HOW IT WOULD STRIKE YOUR HONOR.” * * * * * I was trying a case at Lumberton before a very able judge, but a man who had no sense of humor whatever. When the time came to argue the case to the jury, Horace Stacy proceeded to lambast my client as only Stacy can. I happened to look at the judge and he was smiling broadly. The jury very promptly decided the case against me, and I groped in the dark for some reason for a new trial. But the judge had made no mistake in the admission of evi- dence, and none in his charge. But it suddenly flashed across my mind, that smile! I would take a million to one shot at it and make a motion for a new trial because the judge had smiled where the jury could see him. Solemnly I made the motion. The court listened gravely and said [ 86] “Right, brother Lawrence, the court did smile. Mr. Clerk, let the verdict be set aside.” Up jumped Dickson McLean: “Your honor give us two hours to prepare affidavits that your honor did not smile.” “Oh no, I could not think of it, brother McLean. The court knows of its own knowl- edge that it did smile!” We tried the case again, and Dickson and Stacy beat me again—the mean things! [87] THE FAMOUS PEEBLES CONTEMPT CASE AS I look back on this famous case after the lapse of thirty-five years, I am chiefly impressed with the foolish things done by those involved on both sides of the con- troversy. The parties were all lawyers, and should have known how to-restrain themselves. But reason does not reign when anger has its sway, and anger certainly had its sway at that time. I do not feel that the final results reflected credit upon either side. Judge Robert B. Peebles of Northampton county was a captain in the Confederate army, served with distinction in both branches of the legislature, and was the foremost figure in his section of the State. He was a brave and incorruptible man and an able lawyer. But he was lacking in judicial temperament, was inclined to partizanship in the trial of cases, and was intemperate in his habits. In 1904, he had but recently tried a famous murder case at Raleigh, where his conduct had brought down upon him severe criticism from the Bar and press of the State. When the time approached for him to hold court in Robeson, our Bar, under the leadership of Col. N. A. McLean, determined not to set a calendar, and not to try any cases before him. Court convened. There being no printed calendar (as we had not set a calendar) his honor got out the original docket and one by one called over every case upon it— several hundred in number. As each case was called, Col. McLean would say ‘continued by consent.” When the entire docket had been called, his honor turned a cold and fishy eye upon Col. McLean and de- [ 88 ] manded to know why the entire docket had been con- tinued. The Colonel declined to say unless forced to speak by the court. His honor ruled that the Colonel must Speak. The Colonel then said that the reasons impelling the Bar were his honor’s want of judicial temper, his intemperate habits, and his partisanship. “Very well,” said the Judge, “court is adjourned.” . His honor proceeded to his home, where he wrote an affidavit charging that the conduct of our Bar was such as to bring the court into disrepute, and the Judge had this affidavit signed by one of his friends at Jackson. Upon this affidavit, the Judge signed an order requiring Our Bar to show cause before him, at Fayetteville, why we should not be attached for contempt of court, and either fined or imprisoned in the discretion of the court. This order was served by the Sheriff, and the Lumberton law offices hummed with activity. Our Bar prepared to give battle to the court. As I now recall, the members of Our Bar served with this rule were: Colonel N. A. McLean, (Governor) Angus W. McLean, J. Gilchrist McCormick, Stephen McIntyre, E. J. Britt, Robert E. Lee, Wade Wishart, D. Preston Shaw, R. B. Morrison, B. F. McLean;. Leon T. Cook, the writer and Possibly two or three others. The Bar employed as counsel: Charles W. Tillett, of Charlotte, outstanding North Carolina lawyer; Charles M. Busbee, prominent member of the Raleigh bar; John D. Shaw, Jr., shrewd trial lawyer, of Laurinburg. Numerous lawyers volunteered their services, including that able lawyer, Union L. Spence, of Carthage, whose proffer of aid was gladly accepted. Judge Peebles was represented by Col. Charles W. Broadfoot and Hon. George M. Rose, both able Fayetteville lawyers, acting as “friends of the Court.” [89] Sreneeet Fe We did not care to try the case at Fayetteville where public sentiment was perhaps not unanimous in our favor, so in order to get an entirely friendly atmosphere, we made a motion for removal to Lumberton. As the law on this was clearly with us, his honor necessarily granted our motion. Each side then proceeded to ransack eastern North Carolina for affidavits. Governor McLean and the writer secured most of the affidavits for our side, many in num- ber, all containing allegations of intemperance on the part of the Judge. His honor, assisted by Charles U. Harris of the Raleigh Bar, secured voluminous affidavits from scores of people to the effect that the designers had never seen the court under the influence of liquor. The affidavits got so voluminous that the writer carried ours in the largest brief case he could find, whereas those filed by the Judge were so numerous that a large basket was required to hold them. Wherever the Judge went he would be closely followed by Mr. Harris, carrying the basket containing the affidavits. Court convened for the trial at Lumberton, both sides as angry as men can get. The “prisoners” were all present —many accompanied by their wives. His honor gallantly came down from the bench and shook hands with the ladies, but simply glared at their unfortunate husbands. A throng of people were present, crowding the court room and overflowing into the corridors and court yard. Our counsel proceeded to read our affidavits. Among these were ones from Col. E. W. Kerr and R. C. Suther- land, prominent members of the Sampson Bar, and one from a Duplin lawyer whose name I cannot now recall. These affidavits, along with many others, alleged intem- perance on the part of the Judge. When these were read, his honor stated that the hearing would be suspended [9°] riit temporarily until he could prepare some papers. The court began writing, and curiosity, especially on the part of the Bar, mounted. The Judge finally inquired of the Sheriff (George B. McLeod) if he could carry out any Orders the court might give him. The Sheriff (naturally a warm partisan of the Bar) replied that he did not know. “Well, make up your mind quick before I get a new Sheriff,” said the Judge, in the face of a bitterly hostile audience. The Sheriff then said he would serve any papers the court wished served, and the court handed down Papers which proved to be attachments for contempt against the Sampson and Duplin lawyers whose affidavits We had read. But we did not allow these gentlemen to be arrested. We phoned them what had happened, and they came immediately to Lumberton to be met by a host of people, attended by a brass band, and were escorted to the best Tooms our hotel provided,—to such an extent did feeling have its way! The next day, his honor, “of his own knowledge” found as a fact that the Sampson and Duplin lawyers had signed affidavits which were untrue and which reflected upon the Court. The court therefore found them guilty of contempt and fined each $250.00 and costs. Of course our counsel also acted as counsel for the gen- tlemen who had given us affidavits, and we determined to apply to a supreme court justice for writs of habeus Corpus. The Sampson and Duplin lawyers therefore re- fused to pay their fines and went into the technical custody Of the Sheriff. Writs of habeas corpus were at once sued Sut before that great lawyer and beloved North Carolin- tan, Justice Henry G. Connor, of the Supreme Court. Came the hearing on the writs of habeas corpus. Justice Connor invited his colleague, Justice Robert M. Douglas, [91] to sit with him. Charles W. Tillett of our counsel opened the argument, and his speech was so fiery, and his attack upon Judge Peebles so caustic, that justice Douglas left the bench and did not return. Justice Connor heard Mr. Tillett’s argument, then adjourned the hearing for a few minutes, and sent for counsel on both sides. At the hearing before Justice Connor, Judge Peebles was present himself, and was represented by ex-chief justice James E. Shepherd as his counsel. Justice Connor told counsel for both sides that in his opinion the affair had gone far enough and should be stopped. He suggested that the Bar sign a statement that it meant no disrespect to the court (our grievance was with the man, not the court) and that Judge Peebles strike out his judgment against the Sampson and Duplin lawyers, and dismiss the proceedings against them and against us. This suggestion was accepted by both sides and the case was ended. The final judgment further provided that all the proceedings be “expunged” from the records. This was done by drawing a red line diagonally across each page of the record! * * * * * Years rolled by. Judge Peebles again came to hold court in Lumberton, and this time a calendar was set. The Judge was then about 75 years old, and was just out of the hospital. Lumberton then had no hotel worthy of the name. It was January and bitterly cold, with eight inches of snow on the ground. Monday night of court week I went to the Judge’s room to get some papers signed. His honor lay on his bed groaning, covered with his overcoat. No fire in the room; two panes of glass out of the window. His plight moved me to compassion. Said I, “Judge, with your permission, [92] Twill continue my cases at this term of court and take you Up to my house where you can be more comfortable than here.” Said the Judge: “Do you mean that, or are you just trying to be polite?” “I mean it,” said I. “Well I'll surprise you by going,” said the Judge. I bundled him into a hack and tried to make him comfortable at my house. Knowing the Judge as I did, it occurred to me that possibly he Might like a drink, and I gently inquired if such was the Case. His honor responded in the affirmative with en- thusiasm. He would indeed! I secured the necessary in- 8redients (I will not say from where) and brought them to his honor. He mixed a sizeable drink and regarded it With affectionate interest. Then he sfirred it up, rolled his eyes at me, and said “Now d—n your soul ARE YOU GOING OUT AND TELL THIS?” * * * * * Years later I was at the meeting of the State Bar Asso- Ciation at Wrightsville Beach. Judge George P. Pell, of Raleigh, was making a speech during which he repeatedly Teferred to the intemperate habits of a judge from north- fastern North Carolina. No names were called, but every- One knew that Judge Peebles was referred to. The Presi- dent rapped with his gavel and asked Judge Pell to suspend Until the Secretary could read a telegram. It was from the Clerk of the Court at Jackson, announcing the death of Judge Peebles! I learned to admire the old Judge very much notwith- Standing his infirmities, and I cannot say that I am espe- Cally proud of the part I took in the famous encounter between our Bar and his honor. [93 ] AN EPISODE IN NORTH CAROLINA HISTORY THE origin of the phrase “Hold Robeson and Save the State’”’ was once known from the mountains to the sea, but the haze of the years and the mist of time has obscured its origin until now but few Carolinians know whence it came. : We boast of having been “First at Bethel; furthest at Gettysburg; last at Appomattox.” A part of this modesty is due to the troops of General William R. Cox, of Edge- combe, whose thin brigade made the last desperate charge against the impregnable Federal lines during the Confed- erate retreat from Petersburg. Failure of this charge finally satisfied General Lee that the war must be ended. It was the proud boast of General William T. Sherman while marching through Georgia, that his troops would leave Georgia so bare that a crow flying over the State would have to carry its own rations. He made good his boast, but the carpet baggers of reconstruction made an even cleaner sweep in North Carolina. Like a cloud of vultures they hovered over the prostrate state and gorged themselves fat. But a supposedly exhausted people quickly reasserted themselves economically and politically. In the election of 1874, the Democrats redeemed the State, having a majority in both branches of the Legislature. But they were fettered and hampered by a Constitution enacted by a Republican Legislature in 1868. One of the first measures enacted by the Legislature of 1875 was one calling for the election of delegates to a Constitutional Convention. : [94] The campaign which followed was the most bitter €ver waged in North Carolina, each making an intensive State-wide campaign, contesting every inch of ground and bringing into full play their foremost leaders and greatest Orators. For some days prior to the election it was known that the result would be close, so close that even one or two votes might turn the scale. It finally became apparent that the fate of the election would turn upon the result in Robeson. It was then, on August 3, 1875, that General William R. Cox, State Democratic chairman, sent his famous telegram to Col. William Foster French, Demo- Cratic County chairman: “AS YOU LOVE YOUR STATE HOLD ROBESON.” On receipt of this message, Col. French, Judge Thomas A. McNeill and other Democratic leaders set out for Blue Springs township, and there was little sleep in northern Robeson that night. History does not record what these Democratic leaders did as they toiled through the night, but it does record that the Democratic candidates in Robeson were finally declared elected by the slimmest of Majorities. Robeson was saved, but how about the State? The final returns gave: Democrats 59; Republicans 58; Tndependents 3. But before the Convention could meet, William A. Graham, former Governor, Secretary of the Navy, United States Senator, foremost Democratic mem- ber, died leaving the Democrats and Republicans tied, With the Independents holding the balance of power. The Convention spent days trying to organize. The Democrats voted for Edward Ransom, an Independent from Tyrrell county for President of the Convention. The Republicans unanimously supported Col. Oliver H. Dock- €ry, of Richmond. The Independents divided, and the Convention was deadlocked for days. Finally Ransom [95] voted for himself and was elected. Henceforth he voted with the Democrats. On account of their precarious majority, no Democrat dared absent himself from the Convention for even an hour. The final result was that while the Democrats secured a few of the reforms for which they labored, they were not able to accomplish anything like what they wished. It is the Constitution of 1875 under which our State still operates, and periodically there arises a call for another Constitutional Convention. [96] ROBESON INSTITUTE THIS institution once occupied such a large place in the life of our town that I think a few facts respecting same, taken largely from its catalog of 1894-95, will be of in- terest to present day Lumbertonians and to Robeson County generally. In 1891, Edward K. Proctor and A. C. Melke con- Ceived the idea of a Baptist school at Lumberton. Mr. Proctor made the first contribution of $1,000.00 and Mr. Melke contributed $5,000.00. Mr. Berry Godwin donated the site, a valuable lot containing two and one half acres, being the land now occupied by the primary 8tades of the Lumberton schools. Mr. Melke left the in- Stitution a valuable legacy in his will, and members of the Board of Trustees and Baptist churches over the Robe- Son Association made substantial contributions. Its orig- Mal Board of Trustees were: E. K. Proctor, President; RD. Caldwell, Secretary; Berry Godwin; Frank Gough; . - T. Williams. It opened in 1893 and continued in °peration until 1907 when its property was purchased by the Town of Lumberton and a graded school organized. Prof. John Duckett was the first principal. He was the father of Mrs. K. M. Biggs. Gen. Thomas F. Toon (who later became State Superintendent of Public Instruction) Was Principal of the Intermediate Department. Miss Sara Johnson (Mrs. Dr. Henry T. Pope) was teacher of the Primary Department. There were then 166 pupils, of Whom 51 were boarders. The price of board ranged from $3.00 to $4.00 per month, but this did not include wash- - Mg. If any washing was done, it cost 25¢ monthly. A [97] charge of log per month was also made to cover fuel and other incidental expenses. Tuition cost primary pupils $1.50 monthly; high school pupils $3.00. French cost 50¢ per month extra and instruction in bookkeeping and com- mercial law could also be had at the same price. Art students were penalized by having to pay $3.00 monthly. The school was co-educational and among other things its a: : catalog stated: “We believe the separation of the sexes in i i a a school is fruitful of evil in many respects; that rough eae deportment cannot be successfully excluded y ei er way than by the mutual influence of the Owever, the catalog cautiously added: “Lady board i es Gs will not be allowed to receive visits from young » and added “Do right” is our motto. V. Birthright made the highest scholastic average in gee wecinte Department; and Ethel Higley in the Pri- Reis Spee Those on the honor roll included: Miss Lennon joe ae Deaths John T. Biggs, Jessie R. a eee n D. McMillan, John A. Rowland, George ler, Peal ie a = ae ecole Ward, Jessie G. Ful- others. y¢@, Ethel Williams, Leslie Proctor, and pee. ut then students were: John T. Biggs; E. J- Annie Neill yi ine Mamie Duckett; Minnie Lennon; Janie von Glah o Mary McNeill; Vivian Townsend; (outstandin ae Duval French; Wingate M. Johnson Johnson ar Imston surgeon, son of Dr. Livingston (Rev.) E rere then pastor of the Baptist church) ; poe Re i ee Gerald Pittman; Clarence Redmond; Fuller: P €; Frank A. Wishart; Archie Ward; Jessie » Pearl Floyd; Eva Williams; Mike F. Caldwell; ee McNeill; Ethel Higley; Ethel Williams; Vivian the High School; Ed. F. Ward (Smithfield lawyer) in the. Townsend—to name only a few of the then students now living, The catalog closed with testimonials from Dr. Kemp P. Battle, President of the University, Prof. John B. Carlyle, Professor of Latin at Wake Forest, J. A. McAllister, county Superintendent of Public Instruction, and others, closing With an extract from an editorial in the Biblical Recorder which stated: “If we had a Robeson Institute in every Association, Wake Forest would be overrun with well Prepared young men.” I am indebted to Mrs. K. M. Biggs, who owns the cata- log, for the above information. [99] SOME ROBESON COMPANIES IN THE CIVIL WAR correo furnished so many troops for the Confederate vice that it will be impossible to mention all of them, or recount the deeds of valor performed by Robesonians ne s fields of battle. All I can hope to do is to point a tew names and fact: i i i Ronen cts which may be interesting to ve 18th North Carolina Regiment was commanded by ee Thomas J. Purdie of Bladen. Company ‘“D” of : iment was recruited at Lumb i ihe che Silonncmes umberton in May, 1861, (a). William $. Norment. Later Captain of Co. “F” 5ist N. C. Regiment. Severel eee rely wounded. See below for Coes Foster French, ist Lieutenant. Later Lt. oe ne North Carolina Regiment. Distinguished za egislator. Father of Duval French of Lumber- a ae ers Rowland, gnd_ Lieutenant. Captured in tiene a ned at Fort Delaware. Later distinguished se Me gisiator and Congressman. Rowland was named ae onor. Father of Mrs. May R. Shaw and Misses ennie and Winifred Rowland. a ee C. Norment, 2nd Lieutenant. Later promi- ‘UsINess Man, county commissioner, etc. His vener- able widow still lives in Lumberton. He alae B. Rowland, end Lieutenant. Brother of the eae rs. A. E. White of Lumberton; father of Dr. - Rowland, distinguished Methodist minister and [ 100 } editor, whose recent death in an accident is fresh in the public mind. (£) . Neill Townsend, gnd Lieutenant. (g). Allen A. Inman, gnd Lieutenant. Among the privates in this company were Rev. Furney A. Prevatt (oldest living Robesonian) and William H. Barnes of Lumberton (only two Confederate veterans of Robeson now living); Amos Britt (uncle of E. J. Britt of Lumberton) ; Augustus E. (Gus) Floyd of Fairmont; Joseph Prevatt (father of W. J. Prevatt of Lumberton) ; John J. Russ, who lost a leg in the service; Needham J. Thompson (father of Mrs. L. T. Townsend of Lumber- ton), severely wounded; and Bunyan Stansel (father of B. H. and J. C. Stansel of Allenton and John P. Stansel of Maxton), who lost a leg in battle. Thomas J. Hedgpeth (father of the late L. Z. Hedgpeth of Rowland) lost a leg in the Confederate service, and after the war upon the strength of his war record was elected register of deeds. This was not pleasing to the Other political party, so in the next campaign they put forward as their candidate John J. Russ, member of the above company, who also lost a leg in the Confederate Service. Naturally both these one-legged Confederate vet- erans could not be elected, but nevertheless both served their county as register of deeds. * * * * * The gist North Carolina regiment had as its Lt. Col- Onel, Daniel G. Fowle, distinguished lawyer, who after the war became Governor of North Carolina. Company “A” of this regiment was commanded during Part of the war by Condary Godwin of Lumberton (brother of Berry Godwin) and during the latter part of the war by W. H. Hartmann, also of Lumberton. Its gnd [ 101 ] Lieutenants were: Raibon Steagall, Moore J. Sealey, W. R. Freeman and John GC. Barnes. Its Sergeants were: Dr. Ed- mund McQueen (first elected mayor of Lumberton) ; W. W. Glover; Hugh B. Reagan and R. M. Floyd. Its Corporals were: Jackson M. Freeman, John H. Collins, Durham Lewis (father of sheriff Robert E. Lewis) , and H. C. Mercer. This company was heavily engaged at Battery Wagner near Charleston, where several of its members were killed or wounded. * * * * * The 46th North Carolina regiment was commanded by Colonel William L. Saunders. He was wounded at Fred- ee buts, and again in the Wilderness, where he lost a eg. After the war he was elected as secretary of state, where he rendered invaluable service in the compilation ee publication of the Colonial Records of North Caro- eee a field officers of this regiment was Major - Norment, veteran of the Mexican war, better known to our readers as Dr. Richard M. Norment father of Dr. Thomas ‘A. Norment of Lumberton. Company “A” was commanded by H. R. McKinney. Oa ae rank M. Wishart, later Captain of Co. ee €nants: Wellington Wishart (father of » John H., and Frank H. Wishart) ; J. H. Freeman and John Hammond. Sergeants: D. H. Meares, W. H. Sutton, L. L, Phillips (killed at Sharpsburg), and R. R. Jones. Corporals: W J. Smi sialic th, John C. S Hammond and W. H. Ivey. pegs ae eer Company “B” was commanded by Frank M. Wishart of Lumberton, altho it was recruited from other counties. Captain Wishart was an uncle of our Wishart towsnmen, and after the war he was murdered by the outlaw Henry Berry Lowrie. He was the father of W. C. Wishart, vice President of the New York Central railroad. The widow of Captain Wishart married W. B. Harker of Maxton, former editor of the Scottish Chief. * * * * - Company “B” of the 50th North Carolina regiment was recruited from Robeson, with the following officers: Captain: E. C. Atkinson. ist Lieutenant: Atlas Atkin- Son. gnd Lieutenants: R. P. Collins and W. B. Jenkins. Sergeants: W. A. Lewis, Irvin Jenkins (well known to Older Lumbertonians) and H. Williams. Corporals: Elias Jenkins, Richard Rhodes Barnes (father of K. M. Barnes of Lumberton) ; J. D. Hedgpeth and A. G. Britt. This company, sustained but few casualties. * * * * YY The 51st Regiment was recruited from southeastern North Carolina, its successive Colonels being: John L. Cantwell, of New Hanover; William A. Allen of Duplin (father of Supreme court justice William R. Allen, and Superior court judge Oliver H. Allen); and Hector McKeithan of Cumberland. Robeson was represented Upon its staff by Dr. Samuel W. Morrisey, surgeon, of Lumberton. Company “D’ was from Robeson, its officers being: Captain: Robert J. McEachern, who was killed in 1864 and Who was succeeded by John D. Malloy. ist Lieutenant: Hector McEachern. gnd Lieutenants: James B. McCallum, Francis $. Currie and William R. Boone. Sergeants: Archi- [ 103 ] bald Johnson, Peter P. MacRae, Murdock McKimmon, ne eae) was from northern Robeson and sus- ew casualties, with the excepti i i : f ception of its Captain, who was killed. : ‘ * * * * * : poeueey “EP was recruited from Robeson, its officers eing: Captain: Willis H. Pope, died in service; Camp a Confederate Veterans in Lumberton named in his aes ae of the Lumberton McAllisters and of the Gane ra T. Pope and Ira L. Pope of Lumberton. ieee Ope was succeeded by A. J. Ashley, who was oe aoe in 1864. 1st Lieutenant: James A. Pitt- ae : teutenants: Francis E. Floyd and William A. ee eee W. G. W. McLean, George A. Smith, Caeic Gee ease H. Bullock, W. W. Prevatt. Maes Gee oe Giles B. Williams, Zach H. cas privates in this company were: Caswell Britt Gy pos ees Neill Carter (father of the late 7 ; of Maxton) ; W. R. French (of the Lumber- amily of that name; Emory D. McNeill (well known to i eon Lumbertonians) ; Jackson Townsend of * * * * * . Sa sEe was recruited in Robeson, its officers be- ee ae ain: William $. Norment. Severely wounded at arrison, near Petersburg. Later distinguished law- Ae ee and solicitor. Father of Mrs. A. T. Parmale ae bee Laura and Emma Norment. 1st. Lieutenant: - C. Fullmore. gnd Lieutenants: G. P. Higley (father of register of deeds i I. N. Higley, G. P. Hi y a gley Higley and and Timothy D. McPhaul. Corporal: James A. McNeill. - others) ; and J. W. Hartmann. Corporals: W. B. McLellan (father of the late W. H. McLellan of Rowland) and Faulk J. Floyd (later sheriff of Robeson, father of Mrs. Duval French of Lumberton) . Several of this company were killed or wounded, and during the heavy fighting around Petersburg in 1864, numerous members, including Lieutenant G. P. Higley, were captured. “On fame’s eternal camping ground Their silent tents are spread.” [ 105 ] ST. ALBAN’S LODGE NO. 114 AT LUMBERTON ne ence was named in honor of the proto- aes mee = who lived in the third century of our duis ae ie : € was the first who suffered martyrdom See ae Ua uy which raged during the reign Seria apd locletian. Masons are especially inter- Chee ae as he was especially interested in our Mine ona a from the ‘King a Charter for the Free ern aed : privilege of holding an Assembly, of teas. self was made GRAND MASTER. cae ee been held in high esteem in this country Leg saa lest days, and Washington, who was “‘first in ae eee and first in the hearts of his country- Rea h ica eee Master of the Masonic Lodge eee : pang the chair then occupied by him is pre- Y y the ancient Lodge at Edenton. John Marshall, fr of our Federal Constituti as ution, lent dignity to his high po- sition by serving as DEPUTY Grand Master of Virginia Masons Practically Vv iden : every Presid i c y ident of the United States Our Lodge was charter ords prior to 18 by fire. Limits ed December 8th, 1847. Its rec- 75 do not exist as they were destroyed eae aa of space preclude more than a bare ref. Ose who have served as Master, and do not ermit i B eee of oes of the noteworthy sons of Ore the regal title of M I aster M: who never sat in the East pe One striki Mae toe fact about our Lodge is the number of caring the same names, or members of the [ 106 ] Fae en ne } | ‘ | same family. The name of Norment has long been asso- ciated with Robeson county and with Lumberton, and one of that name was the first Master of our Lodge— Thomas A. Norment—and there has been a Norment bearing the same initials from that day to the present. Others of that name who served as Master include Dr. Richard M. Norment, soldier of the Mexican war, Major in the Confederate army, distinguished legislator, veteran politician, beloved physician. Another was William S. Norment, captain of the Confederacy, outstanding lawyer, solicitor of this district. Another was Thomas A. Nor- Ment, prominent merchant and business man, father of our townsman Clinton Norment. The second Master was John A. Rowland, the only man in the history of our county to fill the three major Offices in the court house, for he was, at different times in his career, clerk of the Superior court, register of deeds and sheriff. Two of his sons also served as Master. His son Alfred Rowland was Lieutenant Colonel of Con- federate infantry, a distinguished lawyer and member of Congress, whose memory is preserved in our town of Rowland. Another son, A. S. Rowland, merchant, also Served as Master. The third Master was John McK. Alford, its fourth was Robert E. Troy, a distinguished member of the bar, who was mayor of Lumberton in 1852. He was followed by another prominent member of the bar, Robert S. French, who later became a judge of the Superior court. He was followed by Eli Wishart, progenitor of the promi- nent Lumberton family of that name, which included Wellington Wishart, the gallant Captain Frank M. Wish- art, who was killed by the Lowrie gang, and our present townsmen John H., W. S., and Frank Wishart. Then followed Captain William P. Moore, John R. Car- [ 107 ] ane oe William A. Dick. Dr. Dick was from Greens- aes i of Supreme Court Justice Robert P. Dick. oa ecame clerk of the Supreme court and one of ea ghters married Charles B. Skipper, now and for = past 25 years clerk of the Superior court, himself a aster of our Lodge. ies ee i N. A. McLean Sr., prominent Lumber- nat ee ae aps better known as the father of Col. Gee ea : cLean Jr., the partner of Governor Angus Reve See a of the most brilliant lawyers our Meech bs = - He was followed by Dr. Edmund Sons » Cescendant of the famous Col. James McQueen, n Soe of so many Robesonians. He was fol- eee : N. Bond, father of the venerable R. S. Bond nd, and of Mrs. Fannie Peterson, so well re- memb iti ee iA by our older citizens. This brings us down to asters who were better kn pak own to the present gen- ee a a prominent Lumberton merchant, Bete e ion e ae held more public directorates cae public boards than any other Lumber- aa ee the board of elections for 25 years, on ee a and finance, on the State board of ae = ee e oe prison board, director of the man of ete ne = oe ee each a ee character, an insurance executive and BAe lorie eee of the most influential fe) one Patna . H. Stansel and J. C. Stansel all satidacts ce » all being men of high character, de- of the well-known Confederate veteran and county c issi se i ommissioner, B. H. Stansel of Allenton, who lost g in the Confederate service. Dr. Robert T. Allen has had a long and varied Ma- sonic career. He has served not only as Master, but he is now and has been for 21 years the secretary of our Lodge, and he is also District Deputy Grand Master since 1927. He has held high rank in other branches of Masonry, having been illustrious Potentate of Sudan Tem- ple in 1938. John P. McNeill was a prominent merchant, and he was followed by Everett J. Britt, who served twice as Master, who also served as Grand Orator, and as District Deputy Grand Master. He is an outstanding member of the bar, chairman of the board of trustees of the deaf, dumb and blind institution at Raleigh, trustee of Mere- dith college, superintendent of the Sunday school of the First Baptist church, one of the most useful men our town has ever had. He was followed by John T. Biggs, Lumberton mer- chant, nephew of Prof. John B. Carlyle, of Wake Forest college, Grand Orator and outstanding Mason. ‘Then came the beloved Dr. Neill Archie Thompson, pioneer founder of Lumberton hospitals, in whose honor the pres- ent Thompson Memorial hospital was named. Two brothers followed—Willis P. McAllister and Charles P. McAllister, of the prominent Lumberton fam- ily of that name. They were followed by James D. Proc- tor, prominent lawyer, churchman, mayor, man of great usefulness, elected to the senate, probably the most popu- lar man of his day. His brother, John G. Proctor, lawyer and Lumberton recorder, also served as Master. G. E. Rancke Jr., Marcus W. Floyd (son-in-law of Quit- man T. Williams) ; John S. McNeill and W. G. Pittman followed. Then came B. F. McMillan Jr., popular sheriff of Robeson; T. W. Bullock, merchant; Ben G. Floyd, so long in the office of the county superintendent of public instruction; and J. C. Bryant. [ 109 ] das sige Robert A. McIntyre, senator, trustee of Foieean € orphanage, prominent lawyer; E. Mosby sae : see and for many years mayor of Lumberton, He ee bar; J. Pope Stephens, N. H. Biddell, W. H. ae aes Y. Floyd (the two last named Oy ar); R. B. Harper; D. L. iting; O Quinn ena. ee Whiting; Charles ee = scattered the German Jews to the four cor- geo ae. S cae but we treat those of that race some- y here in Lumberton, for th : ca of our Lodge is Jacob Dunie aa aS t. ; : Alban’s Lodge has long been noted for its interest in the c ause of the orphan. It may be of interest to note here th Sees at the Constitution of 1868 has been criticised as the work of : ea carpetbaggers, and so it was. Judge Albion Ae Seles ae cee of these. He has been much abused oe : ; politics while on the bench, and this also - Canela he he was a most influential figure a Ne a purer noe of 1868 and be it said Oe i ng credit that he was the author of the one ause in the Carolina Constitution under which lt 1s possible for the State to make i ibuti e its contri our orphanage at Oxford. ekone Our Lode ae ge has had a long and an honorable history, ie of the names of those who have served as alae u arouse in us the feeling, ‘““Blest Be the Tie Ss, and to this we should add: SO MOTEIT BE. in th to hi [ 110] ~—__-—- go SR Se LOST COLONY OF SIR WALTER RALEIGH HAMILTON McMILLAN of Robeson county was a lawyer by profession, but the quest of scholarship was his avocation, and he devoted much time to a painstaking effort to solve the problem of Raleigh’s Lost Colony. He was the only Carolinian who could be properly called the father of a race, for in the legislature of 1885 he spon- sored the law which gave to the people then called Croatan Indians, a separate racial status and their own separate system of public schools—a privilege they still enjoy. Raleigh made several efforts to settle a permanent col. ony on Roanoke Island. One of these expeditions, under the governorship of John White, landed in 1587; on August 15th of that year the savage Chief Manteo was christened and called Lord of Roanoke; and on the 18th of the same month there was born to Eleanor, daughter of Governor White, a child named Virginia Dare—of whom we have recently heard so much in the splendid Pageant of Paul Green. Governor White soon sailed for England to accumu- late fresh supplies, but before his departure the colonists had been invited by the Croatan Indians to visit them, and had tentatively accepted an invitation to remove FIFTY MILES INTO THE MAINLAND. When White left it was understood that if the colonists went to Croatan they would carve that word on some large tree; and that if they were in any distress at the time of leaving, the Christian cross would be carved above the word. Three years later when Governor White returned, he [121] found the island a scene of desolation, and not a sign of the colonists save the word CROATAN carved on a tree, WITHOUT ANY CROSS OR SIGN OF DIS- TRESS. From this he inferred that the colonists were safe at Croatan, where Manteo was born and where the Savages were the friends of the English. The pertinent question arises, where was Croatan? Croatan was one of the long islands, or banks, be- tween the ocean and Pamlico sound, and was within the present county of Carteret. It is so called and located on maps dating back to 1666, and a sound of that name is still so called. But the colonists were not only to go to Croatan, but FIFTY MILES INTO THE MAIN- LAND. This would locate them between Pamlico and Neuse rivers, and there in i660 Rev. Morgan Jones found among the Tuscaroras a tribe known as “Doegs,” light of complexion and who could understand the Welsh speech—proving beyond a peradventure some earlier asso- ciation with the whites. Then in 1714 Lawson, early his- torian, relates that he was told by the Hatteras Indians that some of their ancestors could TALK IN A BOOK, and that they had GREY EYES, a feature possessed by no other tribe. French emigrants as early as 1690 settled between the Pamlico and Neuse, and here the first settlers found a Native race to whom they gave the name “Melange,” mean- ing “Mixed.” At the earliest coming of the white settlers into what is now Robeson county, there was found along the waters of the Lumber a tribe of Indians SPEAKING ENGLISH, owning slaves, and practicing many of the arts of civilization, who call themselves “Malungeans.” I doubt not ‘these were descendants of the mixed race above referred to, who had moved from Neuse and Pam- lico to other hunting grounds in the valley of the Lumber. [12] These ancient people scattered over Robeson ope a Jacent territory; here may be found their oe tas and highways, such as the Lowrie road, near whi ces found numerous large burial mounds, skulls from w ie are all of Caucasian type, with cranial development s in excess of that of the savages. Confirmatory es i found in the names prevalent among eran eee a an which are also found on the roster of Raleigh’s . ee such as Sampson, Brooks, Chavis, Lucas, etc. aoe : 2 use many old English words, dating back to the : ay: fe Chaucer, such as hit for it, hwing for wing, aks or a hosen for hose, housen for house, lovend for loving, pe sion for measurement, mon for man. And at the ee coming of the whites they found numerous Indians ee a BLUE EYES AND AUBURN HAIR. They ee Many of the characteristics of the true we y ‘al a kindness, or forgive an injury. ees of this tribe served our country in the Me Of 1812 and subsequent conflicts. Prior to pe i ai Possessed the elective franchise and other Be a Citizens, but by the amended constitution of 1 3 a Was taken from them. Under the new constitution Of 1 the franchise was restored to them, but by Bare? actment they were denied the right to attend the ee a Schools and hundreds grew up in ignorance rather a attend the schools of the negro race. This wanes ie remedied in 1885 when Mr. McMillan had enacte a legislation which gave these people their own ae schools, a right they have since enjoyed; and t i ped always had their own separate churches, pastored by m - bers of their own race. They are a eal known the Indians of Robeson County. Tree ene have made and are still making much [tsa] progress, due largely to the excellent normal school pro- vided for them by the state and located at Pembroke. ee snares to acknowledge my indebtedness to the ex- rochure of Mr. McMillan for much of the in- formation herein contained. [114] THE LOWRIE OUTLAWS OF ROBESON THIS is a story as thrilling as ever came out of Missouri concerning the Jesse James gang; a tale of an outlaw band which terrorized an entire county for a decade; one which defied the County, State, Confederate and even the Fed- . eral authority. It tells of a time when the people of an entire section sat at night with weapons by their side, with drawn blinds, not daring to stir outside, and when any footfall was heard, they feared it was that of the dreaded murderers and robbers. It will tell of an era when the very court house itself was robbed; when the Jails no longer could hold their prisoners; when Judges from the bench commended the slaying of the outlaws. HENRY BERRY LOWRIE was as famous an outlaw during the era of reconstruction as was Edward Teach, the Pirate, during the Colonial period. His ancestor, James Lowrie, moved from Franklin to Robeson county in 1769, and with his half breed Tuscarora wife, took up a resi- dence on the Lowrie swamp. He had three sons: William, Thomas and James. William fought in the Revolution under the command of Col. Thomas Robeson (in whose honor Robeson county was named) and received a severe Sabre wound, in consideration of which he later received @ pension from the Federal government. This William had a son named ALLEN, who married Polly Cumba, a Woman of Portuguese extraction, and they raised a large family of which four became members of the famous Sang of outlaws: WILLIAM, STEVEN, THOMAS, and above all HENRY BERRY LOWRIE—leader and cap- tain of the band. [215] It will be seen that the blood of strange races coursed through the veins of the Lowries. Outlaw though he be- came, Henry Berry had certain good qualities for which due credit should be given: His word, once passed, was pe he never offered an insult to a white woman altho they were at his mercy; he never fired the buildings of any man. In addition to the Lowries there were other members connected with them by blood or marriage. There were a few not related to them in any way. What caused the Lowries to embark upon their blood- thirsty and lawless career? In 1864 the flower of Robeson ees was in the Confederate service, those left at eee being the “Home Guard,” consisting of men too d for the regular army. Certain robberies and other Sacre had been committed in Robeson and a search of a aes of ALLEN LOWRIE disclosed a quantity of = Property: A court martial was held by the ie Guard,” Allen and his son William were found ee sentenced to death, and were then and there shot. oe = revenge, engendered by this execution, in- = é heart of Henry Berry and is believed to be = cause of the reign of terror which followed. S he rendezvous of the outlaw gang was near Harper's erry, close to Pembroke, where now is maintained a aa Normal School maintained by the State for its es Pee section then known as Scuffletown. en € outlaw gang had its headquarters, which had ront and rear entrances, a trap door and a tunnel which communicated with an almost impenetrable swamp, Ras ee whose recesses the outlaws were thoroughly ae ie rough this trap door and tunnel they escaped a ae ea when hard pressed by the authorities. Pe rtia equipment of Henry Berry and members e band consisted of five six-barreled revolvers, a [ 116 ] Henry rifle which carried sixteen cartridges, a double barreled shot gun, and a long bladed knife. For ten years the band operated as an organized gang and carried on a career of daily crime, protected by some people through friendship, but living mostly behind the screen which fear produced in the hearts of a terrified citizenry. The murder of James P. Barnes and others was laid at the door of Henry Berry and on the very night of his Marriage to his cousin Rhoda, he was arrested and taken to jail at Whiteville (Lumberton was too near the gang) and was locked in a barred cell, heavily ironed. He filed his way out of this cell, and out of the jail, escaping to the woods still wearing his handcuffs. Again he was cap- tured in 1868, but escaped by threatening the life of the jailer at the point of a cocked pistol. When, as a precau- tion, the authorities ordered the arrest of his wife, he wrote: “If she is not released, I will retaliate on the white women of Burnt Swamp township.” A northern detective, John Sanders, sought to entrap and capture the entire gang. Discovering his purpose, the ang captured the detective, blindfolded him, tied him to a tree. Then Steven Lowrie took deliberate aim and shot him to death. They surrounded the home of ex- Sher iff Reuben King of Robeson, killed him in cold blood, and seriously wounded a neighbor who was visiting the King home. Declared an outlaw Steven Lowrie was cap- tured, tried at Whiteville, found guilty of murder and Sentenced to death. He took an appeal, pending which he escaped, only to be later killed by the authorities. The gang was composed of Indians but there were one r two white men including Zach T. McLaughlin. Henry Berry Lowrie paid him $50.00 to murder one of Robe- Son’s outstanding citizens, Owen C. Norment. When Dr. Richard M. Norment tried to reach the side of his mor- [117] tally wounded brother, the gang waylaid him and killed his mule. McLaughlin was finally killed by a posse after a long manhunt. Their usual method of murder was ambuscade. In this manner they killed Brantley Harris; James P. Barnes; Owen GC. Norment; Murdoch A. McLean and his brother Hugh; John Taylor; Archibald A. McMillan; Hector McNeill; Alexander Brown; Captain F. M. Wishart and others. Nor did they confine themselves to murder. The flames of arson flamed nightly along the horizon; and as for their robberies, to list them would be almost to list the citizenry of one section of Robeson. Going to the McDonald section they not only robbed the home of Richard Townsend, but that of his brother Jackson and that of his brother David. David was prepared for them and in defending his home, he shot and killed one of them. Posses scoured the countryside for members of the gang. Finally Henry Berry was induced to surrender to the Sheriff of Robeson and to an agent of the Federal Freedmen’s Bureau. Several members of the gang were captured and all were taken to Wilmington for safekeep- ing and placed on trial there. One of the gang, John Dial, turned State’s evidence; all the defendants were convicted and sentenced to be hung. Pending the appeal Henry Berry and four members of the gang escaped from the Wilmington jail. This was the third escape for Henry Berry. He was never taken again. In 1871, a posse captured Henderson Oxendine and brought him to jail at Lumberton. He was tried by Judge Daniel L. Russell (later Governor), found guilty and hung. He was the only member of the gang to be exe- cuted. He made a full confession before his death. Two others were convicted but escaped before their execution. [118] ss Se es a aan See In March, 1871, eleven young men of Robeson, under the leadership of the gallant Captain Frank M. Wishart, entered into a covenant to rid the county of the band, and a determined hunt was begun for each of its members. They had already been declared outlaws; the county of- fered rewards for their capture, dead or alive, as did also the State; even the Federal government sent a detail of troops into Robeson to assist the local authorities. The Manhunt was on. One by one the several posses killed off the outlaws, but they retaliated fiercely, killing by an ambuscade the gallant Captain F. M. Wishart, leader of the law enforcing authorities. A detachment sent to arrest the wives of cer- tain members of the gang was ambushed and three of the Party were killed. Notwithstanding this the women were Carried to jail, but were released after the Sheriff re- ceived this note: “If our wives are not at home by Monday Morning we will commence and drench the county in blood and ashes.’ This message was signed by Henry Berry and Steve Lowrie and Andrew Strong. The Federal detachment, with the local posse, sur- rounded the remaining gangsters at their desert in the edge of the swamp, but they escaped through the trap door and tunnel above referred to. Just to show his un- daunted spirit, Henry Berry personally ambushed and Murdered Murdoch McLean and his brother Hugh on the Public road near Maxton, and dangerously wounded an- Other brother, Archie. The posse retaliated in kind, and J ames MacQueen shot Boss Strong, one of the gang, point- ing his gun through the cat hole in the door. For so doing he received a reward of $5,000.00 from the State. The man slain was a brother-in-law of Henry Berry. A posse killed the outlaw Tom Lowrie. From his body Was taken three pistols, a Spencer rifle, a gold watch [119] in currency. In December, 1873, a detachment killed Steve Lowrie as he sat strumming his banjo. The body was taken to Lumberton where, superior court being in session, the Judge commended the young men for their services, and extended to them the thanks of the State. In the winter of 1872, the very court house at Lumber- ton was robbed, the safe being stolen from the office of the Sheriff himself. Several stores were broken into and robbed, and the safe of the leading mercantile firm was carried away. A blacksmith shop was robbed for the tools necessary to open this safe. Sensing pursuit, the gang gath- ered at the home of Tom Lowrie in Scuffletown and _pre- pared for the coming of. the authorities. While drawing the load from his double-barreled shot gun, Henry Berry Lowrie in some way allowed the hammer to strike against the sill of a crib and the weapon was discharged, the load taking effect in the face of the outlaw, who thus perished by his own hand and through accident. In 1874 the last member of the gang had been hunted down and slain, with one or two exceptions, these fleeing the State. The sun of the gang had set; henceforth Robe: ~ son citizens breathed more easily. I hasten to add that this oe long ago, and you may now ride the roads of Robeson y night or day in perfect safety, and if you will stop and abide in her midst, a cordial hospitality will be ex - tended you. (which belonged to a prominent citizen) and a large sum _ SUBLIME TOBACCO “Sublime tobacco! which from east to west Cheers the tar’s labour or the Turkman’s rest.” Lord Byron: The Island. FROM the Hatteras Indians of North Carolina, the first English settlers of the new world under Amidas and Bar- lowe, obtained ‘‘uppowoc” or tobacco; “pagatour’ or Indian corn; “openauk” or the “Irish potato.” It was from Carolina, in 1584, that these three gifts were first intro- duced into England. In return for these great gifts, our ancestors presented the native Indians with some strange Presents: whiskey; smallpox; and various vices of the whites. Tobacco was the first staple crop of the Albemarle; so much so that as early as 1679 the Virginia assembly passed an act preventing the importation of North Carolina tobacco into Virginia. The Virginians simply could not compete with the bright leaf of Carolina! By the middle of the seventeenth century men of all classes and women of the lower class, sought both health and solace in the free use of their pipes. Snuff sniffing was a mark of breeding, and proclaimed the aristocrat. Lawyer James Millen of the Albemarle had eight snuff boxes, while a “Mother of pearl snuff box sette in gold” was re- quired to satisfy the nose of Colonial Governor Gabriel Johnston. Bequests of snuff boxes are of frequent occur- rence in ancient wills. The end of the Civil War found a considerable demand for two products for which Carolina was famous: tobacco [121] and corn liquor. Both Wilkes and Craven counties (so it is said) produced a superior brand of that species of corn which can be bottled. At Durham, James R. Green had a small wooden building in which he prepared smoking tobacco for the market, and raiding Union soldiers, while they carried off his stock, advertised his product so that the close of the war found him swamped with orders. Julian S. Carr and W. T. Blackwell acquired this busi- ness, and under the name of W. T. Blackwell and Com- pany, they acquired the Green business, and with the trademark of the “Durham Bull,” they made the Bull City famous over the land. Reynolds at Winston, Duke and Sons at Durham, and the Hanes Brothers at Winston, not only pioneered in its manufacture, but peddled their © product from house to house. Cigarettes were not introduced into this country until 1869, and less than two million were used that year in the entire country. But a decade later their use had jumped to four hundred million—all made by hand. Then came ~ James Bonsack, with a practical machine for making them, and the consumption of the weed in the form of cigarettes, increased to an amazing extent. Our farmers of today find a market for their weed as the result of this increase. For Carolina tops the nation in the value of its products of tobacco, producing more than 50 percent of — all the cigarettes produced in the United States. Liggett and Myers at Durham and Reynolds at Winston have the largest factories of their kind in the world. Here in Robeson, we were a one crop county until the early ’gos. Then Henry F. Pittman and James Pittman, at a point near Fairmont, made the first Robeson experi- ments in the cultivation of tobacco. They undertook to cut down the entire plant and sun-cure it, but their experi- ments were not a success. Later they adopted flue-curing [ 122 ] cen etree mn and it worked. They built the first tobacco barn in Robe- Son county. : This was truly an humble beginning, but the cultiva- tion of the weed spread steadily and was greatly stimulated by the low price of cotton. In 1898 Caldwell and Carlyle, L. H. Caldwell and Q. T. Williams built the first ware- house at Lumberton, and the first warehouseman was Mr. Faucette, father-in-law of our townsman Henry B. Jen- Nings. Four years later A. L. Jones, A. J. Floyd and Chambers opened a warehouse at Fairmont. From these Small beginnings our Robeson tobacco markets have grown until tobacco is far in the lead as our major crop; and our Numerous warehouses and re-drying plants furnish steady employment for hundreds of people; and the buyers pay ‘Out millions to Robeson county farmers. While on this subject, the service rendered by our townsman Kenneth M. Biggs to our local market should Neither be overlooked nor forgotten, for it was he who nursed our infant market into its present state of robust Strength. t On behalf of the entire citizenship of Robeson, thanks are hereby extended the great tobacco companies for the Consideration shown by them in not curtailing either our days of sale or our number of hours of the daily market. In connection with this, may I not venture to express the hope that the companies will yet heed our plea for an additional set of buyers so sorely needed on the local Market. Soon the chant of the auctioneer will be heard in the land—and how we do hope the crop brings a good price! [ 123 ] | f A a any n =) i) Zz —_ al n (2) ROBESONIANS GOVERNOR ANGUS WILTON McLEAN «|. strong in will To strive, to seek, to find and not to yield.” Tennyson: Ulysses. A GREAT North Carolinian was dead. At Raleigh the flags on the dome of the capitol dropped at half mast. At Lumberton ten thousand people gathered to pay their last tribute of respect at his funeral. Hither came the Governor, ex-Governors, Congressmen, high officials, judges and a vast throng of lesser folk who had known and loved the man. The scene was impressive, and more than one newspaper correspondent commented upon it. But John Arch McMillan, editor of Charity and Children was not so much impressed with the scene, not so much With the eulogies, not so much by the wealth of the floral Offerings, not so much by a people’s grief, as by the mem- Ory of the fact that when he and ANGUS WILTON McLEAN were in school together, Wilton always pro- eed the small boys against the bullying of the larger nes, When Wilton died tributes were paid to his memory by the country’s press from the New York Times to our local Newspapers, many couched in eloquent terms of tribute to his service to his country, but I feel that the Most eloquent tribute of all was this memory of his school- Mate Arch McMillan, and I think it fairly reflects the out- Standing trait of a great Carolinian. To all Robeson throughout the years he was known as Wilton McLean, and few are aware that he became known [ 127 ] as Angus in his latter years simply because of the gov- ernment’s requirement that those in its service be desig- nated by their first christian name. By the name of Wilton I first knew him in 1903; by that name I first admired, then loved him; by that name I shall write of him here. He was born in Robeson County, April 20, 1870. His ancestry was a notable one. His grandfather, Dr. Angus D. McLean, early graduate of Jefferson and pioneer physi- cian of the Scotch, was not only a landmark of the section, but the ancestor of a distinguished progeny. His paternal grandmother was Jane McEachin, daughter of Sallie Mc- Eachin and her husband Col. Archibald McEachin, she being a daughter of Col. James McQueen, founder of Queensdale, and the ancestor of such a long line of nota- ble descendants. His maternal grandparents were Alex- ander Torrey Purcell and Harriet McIntyre Purcell, this grandmother being a daughter of John McIntyre, out- standing pioneer Presbyterian minister, and the grand- father being a son of John Purcell and a grandson of Malcolm Purcell. His father was Archibald A. McLean, Confederate sol- dier and county official. His mother was Caroline Pur- cell. Through this ancestry he was closely related to many who have made the valley of the Lumber River so no- table for the high quality of its citizenship and the notable men it has produced. Among his near kinsmen may be noted: Col. Neill Archie McLean, Judge Thomas A. McNeill, Dickson McLean, Angus Dhu McLean, Henry C. McQueen, Rev. Dr. J. Edwin Purcell, Bishop Clare Purcell, Rey. Sylvester B. McLean, Rev. Dr. John Allen McLean and other notable men. He received his preparatory education in the schools of Scotland county, and under the famous preceptor Prof. W. G. Quakenbush at Laurinburg. He attended the Uni- [ 128 ] ‘ crane cn ner pt CL TREISMAN Versity of North Carolina and took his degree in law with the class of 1892. He came immediately to Lumberton, which thenceforth became the scene of his life’s labors, and which became his monument when he died. _ He began life as a lawyer; he finished as a master builder of his State, and even the Nation felt the impress of his consummate business ability. He was associated in the Practice of law at various times with his kinsmen, Judge Thomas A. McNeill, Col. Neill Archie McLean and Dick- Son McLean; and with other prominent lawyers such as J. Gilchrist McCormick, Judge L. R. Varser and Horace E. Stacy. I do not say that Wilton was a great lawyer, ora great advocate. He was not an eloquent speaker, and his tastes and talents did not run in the direction of the rough and tumble contest of the average court room. While he could and did direct with ability the trial of important litigation, his hand was usually most apparent in plan- ning and mapping the technique and strategy of the case, and he was usually content to leave the execution of his tactics and strategy in the hands of his associates. Yet North Carolina lawyers recognized him as one of the ablest exponents of his profession, and in 19 17 paid him their highest honor in electing him as President of the State Bar Association. From his early manhood he was the friend and bene- factor of the cause of education, and although through the years a multitude of cares and duties pressed in upon him, and although necessity forced him to relinquish Some of his multitudinous tasks, he continued to serve as a trustee of the University, as a trustee of Union Theo- logical Seminary, and as chairman of the Board of Trus- tees of Flora Macdonald College. This last institution felt the warmth of his sheltering care. He gave to it much [ 129] of his time, means and energy serving for years as chair- man of its investing committee. And he privately con- tributed to the education of numbers of Carolina’s youth. He early took a commanding position in the political life of his section, and served as County Chairman of his party as early as 1892. After 1920 he was a member of the State Executive Committee. He was a delegate to the Democratic National Conventions of 1905 and 1912. Hav- ing served an apprenticeship as a politician, he emerged as a statesman. While he was known throughout the State as a lawyer, influential political leader, and public-spirited citizen, his local fame began when he became a master builder—the builder of Lumberton. His business genius made itself felt at an early age, and his restless energy was such that one achievement did not satisfy him, but he at once pro- ceeded to a yet larger accomplishment. Yet even here he kept behind the scenes to a large extent. He often fathered an enterprise although his name did not appear either as officer or director. His fertile brain conceived. an enterprise; his legal ability formed it; but he often allowed another to head the organization, merely retain- ing the direction and control in his own capable hands. Thus he conceived and planned, and thus under his able guidance such outstanding men as Robert D. Cald- well and Albert Edward White carried out his plans, these three (with others) working in close harmony. As early as 1897 he organized the first bank of Robeson, the Bank of Lumberton, later nationalized as the National Bank of Lumberton, which has a banking record second to none in this state. His partner, Judge McNeill was its first President, but upon his elevation to the Bench in 1898, Wilton was elected to its presidency and so con- tinued until his death. And he planned and organized [130] the cotton mills which have meant so much to our town— the Lumberton and Dresden mills, later merged into the Present Mansfield Mills, and the Jennings Mill. He con- tinued as officer and director therein until his death; and these mills for a long number of years furnished the bulk of Lumberton payrolls. 5 Perhaps his greatest single contribution to our business life was the building of the Virginia and Carolina South- ern Railroad from Lumberton to Hope Mills and from St. Pauls to Elizabethtown. This road has played a tre- mendous part in the development of Bladen and northern Robeson. He was also interested in the Atlantic Coast line system, and was for years its District Counsel and trusted adviser in this section. A He organized and became the President of the Atlantic Joint Stock Land Bank at Raleigh, and remained as head Of this institution which meant so much to the farmers Of eastern Carolina. He was also a director in the Jeffer- son Standard Life Insurance Company and other large Corporations. While the foregoing may be cited as perhaps his largest Contributions in our economic and business life, there Were a host of smaller enterprises which felt the touch of his business genius. In fact there was scarcely an enterprise in Lumberton or in Robeson with which he was not con- Nected; and those enterprises in which he was not di- Tectly interested were in most cases mapped and planned by him. When our country entered the maelstrom of the World War, and President Wilson searched the country for five Men of great business ability to have direction of financ- ing the industries of the Nation for the period of the War, Wilton was one of those so chosen and he became a Member of the War Finance Corporation, eventually be- [131] coming the chairman thereof. In this capacity he won new laurels as a business executive, drew national atten- tion to his great ability, and earned his promotion as As- sistant Secretary United States Treasury. In both capaci- ties he rendered such conspicuous service as to evoke the warm praise of both President Wilson and Secretary of the Treasury McAdoo. He went to Washington a North Carolina figure; he returned a National figure. In 1925 he was elected Governor of North Carolina, receiving the largest majority until then given any can- didate for that high office. Here there awaited him a task which taxed even his great powers. North Carolina had been on a spending spree; her debts piled mountain high; her finances in disorder; her treasury exhausted; her credit strained; lack of system was felt on every hand. Governor McLean applied to this condition that same fine business sagacity he had shown while in Washing- ton. He reorganized the State’s finances; he inaugurated the budget system; he checked the wild orgy of spending; he restored the State’s credit; he introduced order and system into a chaotic financial system. During his four years tenure in office he gave to our State a great business administration, one which attracted attention far beyond our own borders, one which focused him in the public eye as a man of national importance. After completion of his term as Governor, upon appeal of leading business men and bankers, and in an effort to improve a bad banking situation, he led in the organiza- tion of the North Carolina Bank and Trust Company, an amalgamation of several leading banks at Greensboro, Raleigh, Wilmington, and other points, becoming Presi- dent of the institution. The final failure of the bank in no way reflected upon the character or the quality of his leadership, or upon his business ability. He was called [ 132 ] . ; | | | | | Upon to save a situation in a time of stress and even then the ship he launched would have weathered the storm had Not the unprecedented panic of 1932 created a situation for which he was not responsible and which no man could control. Under these conditions banks in North Carolina went down literally by the hundreds. Governor McLean was a great burden bearer. He knew the via Dolorosa. As he came into prominence in Robeson, those who needed money, those who desired government Position, those with relatives or friends in trouble—these With one accord applied to Wilton for help. As he rose to fame, this local condition became wider even than the limits of the State. I once heard a Governor say that be- fore his election he knew he would be under obligation to North Carolinians, as a majority of her people would Vote for him, but that after his election he found to his Surprise that he was under obligations to the people of Virginia and South Carolina, also, and this upon the 8round that had they been allowed to do so, they also Would have voted for him! So, especially after he was Governor, every mail brought its appeals for assistance; all troubled Carolinians trod the beaten path which led to his door. He became bowed and bent under this load of carking care, piled as it was on top of a heavy burden Of professional and business cares and anxieties. But he did not break. Patiently he toiled through the day and far into the night, trying as best he could to help each and every one of those who threw themselves upon his bounty. Here a letter went to the Governor requesting that some prisoner be paroled; here a letter to some Wash- ington official seeking a position for a North Carolinian; here a letter giving sage advice in some complicated ques- tion of business administration; here a letter requesting financial aid for some acquaintance; and all too often [ 133 ] there was enclosed the personal check of that great hearted gentleman who rose from the poverty of reconstruction himself. So many and so varied, so urgent and pressing the busi- ness demands upon him that he did not have time or op- portunity to develop the social side of his character as would otherwise have been possible. He was widely read, tolerant in his ideas, broad in his views, a genial com- panion and a brilliant conversationalist. He delighted in the few hours of relaxation he permitted himself, and was happy when surrounded by those to whom he had given of his confidence. Wilton was an earnest and a sincere Christian. He was for years a Ruling Elder in the Presbyterian church here in Lumberton, and only his pastor and his co-labor- ers know what his passing meant in the life of his church. I admired Wilton as a lawyer. I wondered at his business genius. I marvelled at his power as a financier. His power over men must have come from inspiration. But I loved the man for the quality of his friendship; for the breadth of his generosity. Once you were admitted to his confidence, once you had passed the acid test of his keen scrutiny, you passed into his complete friendship, _ and nothing was withheld from you. Just what this means can be known only to those who experienced it. And there was no limitation upon his generous nature. When the recent memorial to Will Rogers was unveiled at Clare- more, Oklahoma, Eddie Cantor said: “If you gave Will a biscuit, he would want to give you a whole barrel of flour.” No sculptor could carve a more perfect likeness of Wilton McLean. A more generous soul never lived; and while I have applied to him scores of times for finan- cial aid for this person or that cause, never once did I apply in vain. [134] He was married April 14th, 1904 to Miss Margaret French, of Lumberton, and to this union was born three children: Angus Wilton Jr., Lumberton business executive. Margaret French, Alumni Secretary Salem College, Winston, N. C. Hector, student at Davidson College. He also had a brother Hector who died many years ago; and another brother, Alexander Torrey McLean, prom- Nent Lumberton business man. And three sisters: Mrs. J. F. L. Armfield of Fayetteville (deceased), Mrs. J. I. Sutphen of Columbia, S$. C., and Miss Sallie McLean of Maxton. When Governor McLean died, June goth, 1935, hun- dreds of papers all over the country paid eloquent tribute to his genius, to his services to his Skate and Nation, to the Manner of man that he was. Some of these tributes were Compelling in their eloquence, but I liked best the con- clusion of an editorial in the Charlotte Observer: “A kindly man, large-souled, he goes over the River With the hearts of a people he served and led rising in Sorrowed emotion to chant a hymn of gratitude for his fine gifts and leadership.” : Eulogies are sometimes fulsome, but the words of his friend O. L. Hall of Chicago, which are graven upon his Mausoleum in Meadowbrook cemetery, scarce do justice to the man whose noble nature they commemorate. I quote them here: “His friendship ennobled all who knew him. He was: 4 tower against which the weary leaned and which the ©ppressor could not throw down. His great heart gave hope to the poor and restrained the self-seeker. His leader- ship was informed with Christian kindness and human Understanding. He combined wisdom with energy, charity [ 135] Sees ianiy = with enterprise, sympathy with decision. He led his com- monwealth to new glory.” Robeson’s greatest son, my friend: ANGUS WILTON McLEAN. . & Lat ef [ 136 ] REVEREND CHARLES H. DURHAM, D.D. “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” ay Paul: Phil. 3-14. CLEVELAND COUNTY is famous in American history, for on her soil was determined the fate of American In- dependence. Here, on the slopes of Kings Mountain, the Continental army under Cleveland Shelby, Ferguson and Sevier, met the British red coats, and when the shades of night had fallen, those slopes no longer belonged to the King but to the patriot forces. 5 The hills of Cleveland are rugged, and she produces Tugged men. From these hills came the Webbs: the father, George M., mighty mipjster of the Word, pioneer Baptist Preacher to an @itire section; a son, Edwin Yates, fifteen years in Congress, co-author of the Webb-Kenyon act, dis- Unguished judge of the Federal Court for the western dis- trict of North Carolina; another son, James L., able and fearless solicitor, who for many years adorned the Superior Court bench of our State. From these hills came the Dixons: Thomas, world famous author and playwright; his brother, Clarence, the George W. Truett of his day; his brother Frank, noted lecturer, whose son has but recently been elected as gov- €rnor of Alabama; their sister, Dr. Delia Dixon-Carroll, Ploneer woman physician. From these hills came also Governors of North Caro- lina, O. Max Gardner, and his brother-in-law, Clyde R. Hoey, distinguished not only for his statesmanship but for the high quality of his Christian character. [137] And from these hills came the Durhams: Plato, the elder, brilliant lawyer of reconstruction days; Plato, the younger, he of the scintillating mind and eloquent tongue, Methodist minister, professor in Duke and Emory univer: sities; and Columbus Durham, mighty servant of God, leader of North Carolina Baptists as corresponding sec- retary of their State convention for many years; and from these rugged hills came along their kinsman—CHARLES H. DURHAM. His grandparents were: Lemuel Durham and Tem- perence Scruggs Durham of Cleveland, Henry Cansler and Fannie Shuford Cansler of Catawba. His parents were: Dr. L. N. Durham and Fannie Cansler Durham. His Cansler ancestry makes him a near kinsman of that premier North Carolina lawyer, Edward T. Cansler, Sr., of Charlotte. His brothers were: Augustus, Gordon, Alex- ander (all deceased) and two yet living, T. L. Durham of Hendersonville, and Dr. B. J. Durham of Columbia, S. C. His sisters were: Mollie, Bettie (Mrs. J. B. Bostic) and Addie (Mrs. O. F. Thompson), all deceased. Dr. Durham was born at Shelby, July 13th, 1868. His boyhood was the usual one, save that God laid hands upon — him while yet a lad, and the ministry called to him at an early age. He entered Wake Forest college, and here I first met him one Friday night at two o’clock a. m. As a mem- ber of the freshman class, I was joining the Euzelian Lit- erary Society, and when I was led into the sanctum sanc torum where the secret and mystic fraternal words were to be imparted to me, the one who imparted the magic words was a young man just as serious, just as stately, just as dignified, as he is today. I thought that night that Charles Durham was a great man, and during the forty- five years since then I have never wavered in that con- viction. And here at Wake Forest was paid him the highest [ 138 ] tribute I have ever known paid to any man. A student Was one day beginning the recital of an off-color story to 4 group of his fellows, when Charles Durham walked up. The story was not finished. In that presence it could not be told. He was graduated from Wake Forest in the class of 1898, one of the most brilliant ever sent out by that insti- tution. Among his classmates were: the near-genius Josiah William Bailey, United States senator; the magnetic Ed- Win Yates Webb, congressman and Federal judge; Samuel Judson Porter, noted preacher, pastor First Baptist church, Washington, D. C.; Col. Franklin P. Hobgood, prominent Greensboro lawyer; Charles P. Sapp, distinguished editor, Norfolk Pilot; Stephen McIntyre, needing no introduc- tion to Robesonians. He was ordained to preach in January, 1894, and for the following two years attended the Southern Baptist Theological seminary at Louisville. He entered the Bap- tist ministry as pastor at Gastonia in July, 1896. A unani- Mous call from the First Baptist church of Lumberton Was accepted by him in September, 1900. Here he re- Mained until May, 1914, when, to the distress of his peo- Ple, he accepted a call to the Brown Memorial church at Winston, where he remained until November, 1918, when his home people again called so loudly that he could Not resist, and he came back to his Lumberton home. Here he has been ever since, and here—please God—he Will remain until called to receive the “well done” of his Lord and Master. His church has paid Dr. Durham about all the honors it has to offer. He has been moderator of the Robeson association for twenty-seven years. He was the North Caro- lina member of the Home Mission board for twelve years. He was a trustee of the Southern Baptist Theological [ 139 ] seminary for twenty-two years, until he resigned. He has North Carolina Baptists paid him their highest honor, electing him as president of their State convention, and re-electing him in 1912, 1913 and 1914. In 1922, Wake Forest college conferred upon him a Doctorate of Di- vinity. These various honors may serve to show the esteem in which Dr. Durham is held by North Carolina Baptists, and their admiration for him, both as a man and as a minister, but his real life’s work has been here in Robe- son county and in Lumberton, where is situated the child life—the First Baptist church of Lumberton. Within her walls Dr. Durham has done a truly monu- mental work. When he came hither in 1900, the Baptists were but a feeble folk, few in number, supported largely by the purse of the late Berry Godwin. But under his wise guidance, able administration, and loving steward- Sunday-school building was erected in 1910, followed by the erection of the education building in 1927, making the church plant as well equipped as any in the South of similar size, and its membership has reached nearly one thousand. For many years this church has had the reputation of being one of the most liberal in the south- ern states in its gifts to benevolence; and for many years it led all North Carolina churches in its gifts to the orphanage at Thomasville. May we here pause and pay silent and reverent tribute to some of those heroes of the faith who have upheld the hands of Dr. Durham during his long ministry, even as Aaron and Hur upheld the hands of Moses upon the rock of Horeb: Edward Knox Proctor, Jz., Robert D. Caldwell, [ 140 ] been a trustee of Wake Forest college since 1926. In 1911 _ of his heart, the center of his affections, the blood of his | ship, a new, commodious and well-equipped church and © Stephen McIntyre, Luther H. Caldwell, Que Ti Williams, and others. They each wrote their name large Upon the hearts of their brethren, and their works yet follow them. Amen. I Mea deem it necessary to speak of Dr. ined quality as a preacher. Yet I may say that I ea ee his ministry since 1903, and while I have often ear sa reach the heights, I have never yet heard him preach Poor sermon. The fact of his long ministry, his unant- mous recall here after his first pastorate of fourteen years, the fact that his people still hear him eagerly and gladly, Speaks far more eloquently than I can write of the mag- Netism of his gospel and his power as a preacher. While his church has been his one passion, he was ever @ crusader for civic righteousness—ever a leader of the Moral forces of our State and county. The younger gen- €ration may marvel when I say I have seen our De mad, but I have seen him mad—white hot! Yes, oe But his indignation had been aroused over some ee. tion of vice or sin here at home or in the state, a z s he scourged with whip and scorpions even as C:qis Scourged the money changers from the Temple in lees salem. He has never for a moment hesitated to take suc Position as seemed wise to him—no matter how unpopu- lar for the moment such position might be—and to pe 8edly adhere to that position until his cause should be Vindicated, He has led—can still lead—a forlorn hope With all the energy of his soul and all the zeal of the ee crusader, He would be friends to all men, but once his Mind is made up that a thing is morally wrong, pee Without regard to friend or foe—he just wades in re Mops up! And the people love him for just this ea y of his leadership. He has for many years been a pillar : ; 1 of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night to the leds forces of Robeson county, and when the roll is called of those who wrought mightily for moral righteousness in North Carolina, the name of Charles H. Durham will stand near the top. But it is not so much for the preacher, not so much for the reformer, not so much for the pilot or the prophet, not even so much for the shepherd, that the people of Robeson bear affection. It is for the manner of man that he is. Upon this ground men of all races and all degrees, men of all creeds and none at all, unite in paying tribute to Dr. Durham as the best beloved of his generation. Dr. Durham has become not only the shepherd of his own ' flock, but of other flocks as well, until the united Christian forces of Robeson pay tribute to his leadership, and join in admiration of his character. Prophets are said to be without honor in their own country, but this does not apply to Dr. Durham. And what manner of man is this? Dr. William B. Royall, professor of Greek at Wake Forest college, was the most saintly man I have ever known, but Dr. Durham follows in his train. Yet he is neither a kill-joy nor an ascetic. He loves the companionship of the young, and they feel entirely at home in his presence. And the charm of his manner, the geniality of his presence, the graciousness of his personality, the radiant joy of his life, endear him to all who know him. His head may be white, but the life blood of his heart still glows ruby red with affection for his fellow men, and with devotion to the cause of his Master. And he is now doing the best work of his life. In 1896 Dr. Durham married Miss Essie Moore, of Gas- tonia, held in loving remembrance by Robesonians, and to them came three children: Wilma, wife of David H. Fuller, prominent lawyer of Lumberton; Margaret, wife of Jasper L. Memory Jr., professor of education at Wake [142] Forest; Kathleen, wife of Dr. Howard M. Reeves, pastor Of the First Baptist church of Hartsville, S. C., and chap- lain college. eae ee married Miss Sadie Tatum, A Walnut Cove, N. C., that gracious lady who presides ue the Doctor’s home with such queenly grace, and who has been such a fitting helpmeet to him in his ministry. And so at this Thanksgiving season when we coun Over the blessings which His hand hath bestowed pci Us, with one accord we of Robeson return thanks 2 t . ~Giver of every good and perfect gift for the life of suc aman as Charles H. Durham. ; In July of this year, the editor of The Robesonian ae Cred Dr. Durham with a citation which was mee at throughout North Carolina. It paid our Doctor a we deserved tribute, but it was still inadequate. The Citation Should have read: of “DEFENDER OF THE FAITH” [ 143 ] RICHARD RHODES BARNES “A wise man, which built his house upon a rock.” Matthew: 7-24. HERETOFORE this series has been confined entirely to Robesonians belonging to the several professions— preachers, lawyers, doctors. Now it is my privilege to» present to my readers a sketch of a distinguished Robe- sonian who was not a professional man, and who by his own efforts attained the great place which he occupied in the life of Robeson County—RICHARD RHODES BARNES, of Barnesville. Most great Americans have been self-made men. Benja- min Franklin fled from his home in Boston to escape the oppression of his brother to whom he had been apprenticed, and reached Philadelphia with but two cents in his pocket. In my judgment he was our greatest Ameri- can. Andrew Jackson rose from the narrowest of begin- nings to the presidency. No man in any age wrote his name higher among the immortals than Abraham Lincoln, entirely a self-made man. John D. Rockefeller started life on $25.00 per month, but lived to become the world’s greatest philanthropist. Andrew Johnson had such little Opportunity that he could not even read or write until taught by his wife after he reached maturity. Yet he became Governor of Tennessee, United States Senator and President. ; Richard Rhodes Barnes started his useful career during the desolation of the reconstruction era, and by his own efforts rose to a position of influence and power in his [ 144 ] county. He was born near Proctorville in 1844, ar ee Meredith and Eliza (Ward) Barnes. When the oe, i broke out in 1861, he enlisted in Company “B,” 50t North Carolina infantry and served throughout the Se Sle until he was captured and imprisoned at Point Look- Out, Maryland. : Re to an impoverished county he set about oe life work, and in 1873 established a small mercan i business at Barnesville. When I came to Robeson in 1903, Mr. Barnes was an outstanding figure, a man age a large estate and possessing more than county-wide sig ie €nce. Some years later, while standing with him on A Porch of his home at Barnesville, I remarked upon the beautiful field in front of his home. “Yes,” he said se “but when I bought it in my early manhood it was 4} of pine stumps. I dug them up myself, dyes night, while my wife held a kerosene lamp so I might ee Te my head had not been covered at the time, I wou a have stood uncovered in such a presence and before suc @ statement, in tribute to the great soul who made it. I think the fact of this beautiful field fairly reflects the Chief characteristic of his useful life. He found life pubes in its beginning; but he made it beautiful before it en is ¢ He was primarily a merchant and a farmer. Becton pe Upon meagre capital and on a small scale, his mercan ae business grew until it was one of the largest in the fate u and his holdings of real estate spread until he was ne €sted in a great part of Sterlings and adjacent towns is ‘ But he was much more than a merchant or a farmer. e Was an institution, both to his immediate locality ast to the county at large. He was the friend, mentor, counse a Cf his entire section, and few there were who wou Undertake an enterprise without first consulting Squire i i i Rhodes Barnes. His reputation as a business oe te 1 known probity, his desire to develop his community, and his willingness to put his ability at the disposal of his neighbors, marked him as a conspicuous man of his com- munity, and his reputation grew and his influence in- creased until it covered not only Robeson but much of Columbus. I need cite but few instances of his service to his county as a builder. The railroad from Lumberton to Marion was built on a shoe string. And it would not have been built even on this had it not been for Mr. Barnes. Through several periods of financial stress he supplied the money necessary to keep it going, and it is an un- doubted fact that to him was due the continued opera- tion of the road for many years. And he aided in building communities other than his own. Our town of Lumberton felt the impress of his power as a builder. He served as Director of the Lumberton, Dresden and Jennings Cotton mills, in the National Bank of Lumberton, and in the Planters Bank and Trust Company, and was a substantial stockholder in these and other institutions. From time to time he placed his ability and energy at the disposal of the public. He served for years as a magis: trate, and was known far and wide for his ability as a settler of disputes and contentions between neighbors and erstwhile friends. People from a whole section came to him to lay their troubles at his feet and to let him seek a solution thereof. And a solution he usually found. When Squire Barnes had with patience heard both sides to a dispute and rendered his decision, both sides were usually content to abide by his decision as that of both a wise and a just man. He served his county for years as Chairman of its Board of Commissioners. It was during his service on this Board that the Board, on the advice of its attorney Judge Thomas [ 146 ] A. McNeill, ruled that the bare fact that a person ee for license to sell liquor was ipso facto evidence of ba Character, a ruling which was upheld by the supreme court in Commissioners v. Commissioners, 107 N. C. 335. This ruling eventually dried up Robeson County. — 4 He was also devoted to the Baptist church, of which he Was a consistent member from his early youth. He hee Clerk of his church and superintendent of its sunday ey for many years. One of the principal objects of his a tude was the Baptist Orphanage at Thomasville, an eS this institution he gave generous support during his ife. It was his intention to execute a will, but he was stricken With his last illness before he had the opportunity to exe- Cute it. From what I know of his life, and from what J learned as his attorney, there is no question but that if he had lived to execute his will, it would have contained a Senerous bequest to that institution. In recognition ms this fact and to carry out and effectuate what his fami y knew to be his wishes, after his death his heirs provided the funds for erecting the building known as the Admin- — istration Building which stands upon the Seas Srounds at Thomasville. He died June 4th, 1918, mourne throughout our county. In 1866 Mr. Barnes was married to Miss Isabella Floyd, and to this union were born two children: Kelly M. Bares, prominent Lumberton business man; and Edna, who married James H. Pittman. The daughter died many years ago, leaving two children, Messrs. Roger and Craven Pittman, both of Barnesville. Since DE was written Craven was killed in an automobile acci ent. A life of inspiration was that lived by: Richard Rhodes Barnes, [147] KENNETH M. BIGGS HE was born out in Saddletree, son of that sturdy Con- federate veteran and high-minded citizen, Ebenezer Biggs, and his mother was a sister of Prof. John B. Carlyle, of Wake Forest College. He was raised on the farm, but his _ restless urge for action found farm life too slow, so he got himself a little education, a business course, and then a job as express messenger. For several years he rode the express trains and went FAST as he has been doing ever since. Then he married Miss Mamie, daughter of Professor John Duckett, principal of Robeson Institute, got a job- as bookkeeper for Caldwell and Carlyle. When I came to Lumberton in 1903 he was just getting into his stride, and that year he started in the mercantile business for himself, and his business grew from the jump, because he became known throughout Robeson as a man who could AND WOULD do things. He stayed by his business from twelve to fourteen hours daily, gave to every man a square deal, and such a course of conduct began to pay dividends. Soon when things were needed to be done here in town, he was called upon to take a hand, and it was not long before he began to be looked up to for leadership. He was the close ally, associate and confederate of Gov- ernor Angus Wilton McLean, Mr. A. E. White, and the late Robert D. Caldwell, in founding new enterprises and — industries for the town. If stock for a new corporation was to be raised, he was one of those sent out to raise it, and— you looked him in the eye and meekly asked: “How much J 148] do you want me to take”? He has been the organizer of and a director in so many Lumberton corporations, that @ list of his directorates would sound like a roster of our business organizations. He not aie serves on week days, but also on Sunday, and around the First Baptist Church they find ae indispensable that they have dubbed Mr. Biggs Hig Sheriff” of that church, and he is the oldest member of its Diaconate. Possibly his most outstanding single service to the Bite hess life of our town has been in connection with the development of our tobacco market, which was fathered by him and to which he has given most generously of his time and means. It is now our largest industry, and it is due primarily to him. He has looked after its interest down to the last detail, and by his sheer ie ey power he has made our market grow miraculously. His was the figure behind the formation of the pciene Of Commerce in 1936, and he served as its President hae the Spring of 1938. He has long been a large figure aroun: the National Bank of Lumberton and has served for many Years not only on its directorate but also on its finance and discount committees. Whee Graded Schools were established, Mr. Biggs Was one of the first members of its board of trustees. He Was a member of the building committee when Robeson Institute was acquired by our town and changed into a 8raded school. He served on the building committee when the present Baptist church was built in 1910. He was largely responsible for the building of the North and West Umberton Baptist Churches. Rite Tn 1904 he organized the Robeson eta e heS pes Pany, for cotton ginning and the manufacture ° a i Seed products. It was he who conceived the idea of ; a to this plant a department for the manufacture of com’ mercial fertilizers. A year or so ago he took over the presidency of the Mansfield and Jennings Cotton Mills—just looking fot trouble! Since then he has had his hands full of cottot mills, tobacco market, big mercantile business, everybody wanting to advise him about their troubles, handyman around the church, the bank people waiting for him t0 come—well, he has plenty to do. The more work he gets, the more he seems to want, and he is not so young as he once was, either. 2 Of course, with so many and so varied interests, he neces sarily has had to have some assistance, and this he has had in his son Furman and B. M. Sibley. They can tell you right off the bat how much the gross sales were ten years ago; how much income tax (groan) was paid twelve years ago; and they keep many statistics in their heads. Nor is Miss Barbara McIntyre far behind. If only his ‘old crop liens could be used for tobacco canvas, Robeson farmers would not have to buy any canvas for years yet to come: Several years ago when old man depression came along; it caught Mr. Biggs with who knows how many thousands of dollars on his books, which he could not collect, and with creditors who were insistent, and his hundreds of friends sadly and gloomily shook their heads in pity that so useful a man should go down in defeat after so gallant a career. And the depression sucked him right under—all but his head. Then a miracle happened. He started coming up again, he got his neck out, then his shoulders, then his waist, then his knees, then his feet, and pretty soon he was standing on dry land, and when his friends rushed up he was not even breathing hard! I’ve heard it said that a mat cannot lift himself by his own boot-straps, but that is all an error for Mr. Biggs did it to my knowledge. Now his 12507] financial strength is as the strength of ten, or as the bees of Gibraltar, or whatever the synonym for rugged strengt is, . The thing I most like about him is his positive direct- Ness. He is never a straddler, never a sidestepper, never a Soft pedaler. He’s on one side or the other of every ques- tion, never in the middle. And if it is some cause in Which he is interested, or in which his town 1s gnats he is found pulling in front, pushing from the rear, an Cheering the boys from the sidelines. In an article published a year or so ago, I said Hl Mr, Biges was our most valuable business asset. On reflec tion I think that was putting it quite mildly. He is all that and then some. [151] REV. WM. BLACK, D.D. “T know in whom I have believed.” 2 Timothy: 1-12. I KNOW of no town—nay, no city—in North Carolina which has sent forth so many and so distinguished Chris tian workers as has the small town of Maxton. As most of them were Presbyterians, I can but feel that the spirit of the beloved Dr. H. G. Hill hovered over them, and that most of these lives are a part of the fruit of his labors. I can recall eight distinguished Christian workers who have gone out from Maxton—four women, four men. From Maxton went Elizabeth MacRae, pioneer mis- sionary and educator, who left an indelible impression not only upon the Fayetteville Presbytery, where she founded sixty missionary societies, but upon western North Carolina, where the Lees-MacRae College, founded by her is still a lighthouse whose beams radiate from the Orient to the Heavens. From Maxton came those stalwart soldiers of the Cross, Lillian Austin, missionary to Korea, and Mabel Currie, missionary to China. From Maxton also came Sallie Lou McKinnon, secretary of woman’s work in the Southern Methodist church, whose distin- guished life is even now in the writing. And from Maxton went forth four men who became distinguished in the Christian world: Rev. R. L. McLeod, Jr., President of Centre College, Kentucky; Rev. Sylvester B. McLean, prominent Presbyterian divine of Charlotte; his brother, Rev. Dr. John Allen McLean, pastor Ginter Park Presbyterian church at Richmond, Virginia, and Rev. Dr. William Black, subject of this sketch. [ 152 ] Mr. Black was born at Philadelphus, in Robeson county, and grew up on the farm. He attended Davidson College, which later honored him with a Doctorate of Divinity. He also attended law school and was admitted to the Bar in 1881. Upon securing his license, he went imme- diately to Maxton, and both his legal and his religious Career were identified with the life of that town. It has been said that the profession of the law is some- what incompatible with the highest Christian service, but the life of Mr. Black demonstrates that the law and Chris- tian service are entirely compatible. And others at Maxton have proved the same thing: Sibbie McLean and John Allen his brother were both lawyers—good ones, too— before they entered the ministry. Here in Lumberton the lives of Edward Knox Proctor, Jr., and Stephen McIntyre illustrated the value to a community of the Christian lawyer. : I once knew a lawyer in Raleigh who was almost in- Vincible before a jury—Richard H. Battle. His character Was so high that the Wake county people knew that if Mr. Battle did not believe in the justice of his cause, he Would not have appeared in the case. The same was true Of Mr. Black. His conception of Christian character was So lofty, his reputation for integrity so deserved, that a Man with a case of dubious character would not take it to Mr. Black. The result was that when he did appear, the Cause of his client had a strong appeal to the jury, and Mr. Black’s name had a strong appeal for the court. He Was an able lawyer, and had be continued at the Bar Would have added another name to the list of Robeson lawyers who have graced their profession. He had other calls upon his time. Strange as 1t may Seem, he was captain of the Maxton military company, and his title of captain was an earned and not an honorary [ 153 ] one. To the end of his life he was affectionately known to Robeson as “Captain Willie.” The Call of Christian service came to him while he was — yet a lawyer. He became a member of Maxton Presby- terian church immediately upon his removal to Maxton. Of this church he soon became a ruling elder, and for : many years he served as superintendent of its Sunday school. Then one day a still small voice called to him insistently. No man can ever tell where a force set in Maxton by him will end. The ripples of a stone cast into a pond soon extend from shore to shore. Seeds simetimes planted on stony ground are carried by the winds to fertile soil, and there yield their hundred fold. Physicists say that it is impossible to destroy matter; that its form may be changed, but that the matter still remains. Mr. Black’s life changed its direction; but not its goal. In 1893, John R. Mott, world famous Y. M. C. A. worker spoke in Wilmington and made an impassioned appeal for personal consecration to Christian service. When Dr. Mott concluded, the still, small voice again spoke to William Black, and he then and there determined to abandon the law for the ministry. Meeting the friend of his youth, Charles W. Tillett, brilliant Charlotte lawyer, he told him: “Tillett, you and I are lawyers, but we PRODUCE noth- ing. We are CONSUMERS merely. Hereafter I am re- solved to produce something, and am determined to enter the ministry.” He was as good as his word, and entered the Presby- terian ministry in 1893. He chose the hard path too. With his mental attainments, and his background, he could have had almost any Presbyterian pulpit in the State. But instead of settling in a quiet pastorate, he became an evangelist—began producing something. His power as a [ 154 ] pulpit orator, the power of his godly life, the force of his godly example, bore such fruits that he was called to serve as general evangelist for the Presbyterian Synod of North Carolina, and in that capacity he served for twenty-three years and until his lamented death. : It was in his capacity as Synodical evangelist that the life’s work of Mr. Black may be said to have been done. He lived a hard life—a meeting of days here, and then Within a few days beginning another similar meeting at another place—exhausting toil. But he loved the work, he loved the people; he loved his Master; and the work Prospered. People flocked to hear him and he began to reap a rich harvest of souls. I yemember well how he came to Lumberton to hold a meeting. The local Presby- terian church would not contain the crowds, and the larger auditorium of another denomination was gladly placed at his disposal. And the proof of his labors was seen in the numbers of those converted under his ministry. Ask a Presbyterian in North Carolina under whom was he con- verted, and the chances are that he will answer “at a meet- ing held by William Black.” And he died as he had lived —in harness, at the ripe age of seventy-one, after a life devoted entirely to his Master's service. While holding a revival at Wade he fell on sleep. I think that probably William Black influenced more lives for good than any Other man that ever came out of Robeson—possibly more than even Dr. Hill, because his field was the entire State. North Carolina never produced an abler man than the late Charles W. Tillett, nor was Mr. Tillett the man to say More about a man after his death than he would have Said during his life. He knew William Black intimately for fifty years. Hear him: ‘‘Of those whom I have known, William Black came nearest to living all the time with an eye single to the glory of God. During half a century [ 155 ] living every day without fear and without reproach. God rest his noble soul.” After reading thrice these words of Mr. Tillett, I have concluded that they so accurately re- flect the life of William Black, it would be presumptuous on my part to undertake to add aught thereto. Mr. Black married Miss Maggie Freesland, and to this union were born four sons: LeRoy M., Lynwood, Ernest and Arthur. Mr. Black also left many relatives who, with all Robeson, revere his memory. He obeyed the still, small voice: William Black. of service he was a courtly, knightly soldier of the Cross, — ROBERT D. CALDWELL DURING my sixty-two years of life it has been my oe ilege to know many useful men in many lines of varie Service throughout the State, and I put it but mildly eee I say I never knew a more useful man than Robert D. Caldwell. His calling was primarily that of a merchant, and when I moved to Lumberton in 1903 the firm of Caldwell and Carlyle were leading merchants. He continued to head this business until his death, its name being changed to R. D. Caldwell & Sons after the retirement of his partner, the late William W. Carlyle. I had not been in Lumber- ton a week before I found that Mr. Caldwell was a largely dominant figure in the life of the town. ; Governor Angus W. McLean is credited with being a Master builder here in Lumberton, and indeed he was. But he could not have succeeded in his task without the assistance and counsel of able lieutenants, and one of the Principal of these was Mr. Caldwell. When a conference Was called, and any given business proposition discussed, if it was determined to launch a certain enterprise, or undertake the formation of a given corporation, he was invariably one of the two or three chosen to sell the idea to the public, to arouse public sentiment in favor of the Proposition, get up the necessary subscriptions to the Stock, and arrange the preliminary organization. If a pub- lic meeting was held to give impetus to the project, he always presided over it; it was he who made the speech Cutlining just what was expected from the public. If local leaders decided that more sidewalks or new streets were [ 157] needed, that water mains should be extended, or the like, he bore the burden of enlisting our citizenship to support the movement. And such was the confidence our people had in the man that he usually succeeded in the many public tasks to which he set his hands. All railroads have an official designated Chief Engi- neer, whose duty it is to make surveys for proposed addi- tions, to see that the roadbed is kept in first class condi- tion, so that the wheels of industry can be kept turning. If I were asked just what relation Mr. Caldwell sustained to Lumberton industry during the years of our acquaint- ance, I would say CHIEF ENGINEER. And he was a WILLING engineer. He did not have to be drafted or forced to take the initiative or leadership in any worthwhile movement. Once you convinced him that the proposition was in the public interest, he was not only willing to lend it his moral and financial support, but he would give generously of his time and influence to induce the general public to do likewise. He LOOKED like a leader of men. A stranger observ- ing him at his desk, or addressing a public gathering would say to himself ‘what on earth is the president of the Chase National Bank doing in Lumberton?” And he could sustain the part not only in his appearance but in his acts, for he had great capacity for business and could have borne himself worthily even in our great city of the North had he chosen a wider field of activity. The gift of leadership came easily to him, for he was a natural leader of men. This ability was fully recognized here at home and there was little doing in any line of social, economic or religious endeavor of which he did not have the position of primacy. Lumberton had—I hope still has—a reputation over the State as one of the most prosperous of towns, with a forward looking and aggres- [ 158] Sive local leadership. Much of this reputation was due to the forceful ability of such men as Mr. Caldwell. I do not undertake to enumerate the business enter- prises which felt the touch of his guiding hands, for to do so would be to census Lumberton industry. But I will say that he was a principal in the formation of the National Bank of Lumberton, the Lumberton, Dresden and Jen- Nings Cotton Mills, the Lumberton B. & L. Assn., the Robeson County Loan and Trust Co., and numerous Other organizations. In addition to the numerous Corpora- tions in which he was officer or director, should be added a larger number in which he was a stockholder. He was also the father of the Baker Sanatorium which has proved such a blessing to our town and county. ; He was as public spirited in public affairs as in the field of private industry, and gave willingly and cheerfully of his time to the public service, being for years a member of the town Commissioners and Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners. He worked hand in hand with the late Edward K. Proctor, Stephen McIntyre, Dr. REG Beaman and other civic leaders. If a moral question was involved, you instinctively knew where he stood, and you also knew he would give of his time, energy and ability to translate the moral cause into the actuality of realiza- tion. The phrase “public spirited citizen” is a much igs used one, yet I know of no other term which so de- Scribes Mr. Caldwell, unless it be that of public servant. He served his God not only on the first day but on all days of the week. For a quarter of a century he was Chair- Man of the Board of Deacons of the First Baptist Church, and for practically the same period Superintendent of its Sunday school. In his relation to his church and its pastor, he sustained the same intimate relation as to his associates in the world of business. Did his pastor wish oer 159 done for the benefit of the church?—Mr. Caldwell had but to be told and he would go out and GET IT DONE. If money was to be raised, he raised it, and upon him largely rested the task of looking after the material welfare of his church. He had a large part in the erection of the new church building in 1910. Nor was his interest confined to material aspect in church affairs. He was an earnest, humble and sincere follower of the Man of Galilee, and his happiest hours were those spent with his wife and family in their church pew here in Lumberton. And in the membership of that body, no name is held in higher veneration than that of Robert D. Caldwell. He was a kindly man, a good father, a good neighbor, — a gracious, kindly gentleman whose very presence radiated hope and optimism—one who never knew defeat. He was sympathetic and generous to a fault, nor did I ever know him to fail to respond to the cry of the distressed, the appeal of the widow, the call of the orphan. Following the example of his Master he was the servant of his fellows— ever ready to assist them in their onward and upward path. He kept his courage and his faith even when passing through the deep waters. When the wife whom he adored was taken from his side, he was able to look up through his tears and say: “Thy will be done.” He questioned not the decree of providence, lost not the sunniness of his temper, nor the kindliness of his disposition. And He that doeth all things well allowed his servant to depart in peace, leaving a great heritage to his children, a high example to his associates, and inspiration to all who knew him. A man to whom it was given to see a new Heaven and a new earth. [ 160 ] JOHN BETHUNE CARLYLE “Tet me live in a house by the side of the road i an.” eee Samuel Walter Foss. THESE two lines from Foss’s great poem epitomize the life and character of the man who wielded a greater influ- €nce for good in North Carolina and ee a World, than any other Robesonian—JOHN BETH CARLYLE. Among the Scotch emigres fleeing English oppression after the battle of Culloden was Alexander Carlyle, great- Srandfather of John Bethune Carlyle, who settled in ae fertile fields along Ten Mile swamp in what 1s now i . Son county. Here was established the seat of the Kee ‘ e family and here it remained. Here was born Elias Carlyle, Srandfather of John B., who died as recently as 1881. Here also in 1821 was born Irvin Carlyle, father of John B. He married Annie Bethune, and to them were born the following children: (a). Sarah M. Carlyle. Married Arch issue, (b). Eleanor J. Carlyle. Married Ebenezer J. Biggs. Left issue. __(c). Mary T. Carlyle. Married Jonathan Ratley. Issue, ~ d). Athesia B. Carlyle. Died unmarried. oe ae B. ane Married Richard Humphrey. Left issue. ake Left ibald Willis. Left - (f). John Bethune Carlyle. Born March 2gth, 1859. Subject of this sketch. (g). Dennis D. Carlyle. Died unmarried. The Carlyles were once affluent and owned broad and fertile acres along the Ten Mile, but large families di- vided their holding until the inheritance of the individual had dwindled. And to this should be added the havoc of the Civil war and the wreck and ruin of reconstruction. It is no wonder that when young Carlyle came along, his father was having a hard struggle to provide for his large and growing family. A higher education for John B. was age it was thought that a farmer needed no more educa- tion than to be able to read and write. But after an accident in which young Carlyle and a runaway mule figured intimately, the health of the lad was frail and it was determined to give him some schooling. So to Ashpole academy, at what is now Fairmont, he went, and there he sat at the feet of the principal, Stinson Ivey, from whom he received (as he told the writer) the inspiration for his life’s work. And he was held steady in that inspiration by his younger brother Dennis. The nature of John B. was rash and impulsive; that of his brother Dennis calm and meditative. John B. never undertook any task after he reached maturity without first consulting Dennis. Stinson Ivey is now remembered by few, and Dennis Carlyle by even fewer, but their names are written—in the book of life! They live on and on in the lives of the hundreds of North Carolinians whose lives were moulded by John ~ Bethune Carlyle. Borrowing the money, young Carlyle entered Wake Forest college, from which he was graduated in 1887 Master of Arts. Here he assimilated learning and oratory. He represented his society both as debator and as orator; [ 162 ] not considered. He was destined for the farm, and in that he took the medal for oratory and that for the best essay; he took the Greek medal; he took the Latin medal; he was salutatorian of his class. At midnight, when sachin ‘pe any competitive task, he would look at the room pee Competitor. If a light was shown there, Carlyle wen ke to work. His college record is a mark at which aspiring young freshmen can aim! : hans college he taught for a year at Lumber ao and was then elected as superintendent of public Be tion of Robeson county, but before he could take office i Was elected as assistant professor of languages at Wake Forest college. This chair he held from 1888 until 1891, When he was elected as full professor of Latin. This chair he held until his lamented death on July 10, 1911. From 1888 until his death, Wake Forest was the consuming Passion of his life, and within her classic shades his mem- Cry will never die. che Bethune Carlyle meant more to Wake hee sage is possible to express within the limits of such a s a this. The college had greater scholars; more proto ‘i thinkers, But she never had a man who could aie oe College the practical and efficient service that ne a Carlyle rendered. While others mulled over the cla a °r pondered the depths of metaphysics, Carlyle te a : Sunning for money or students. He always returned ho With bot ; He ee only a capable and thoroughly Set ae fessor of Latin, but for many years he also served as fisca agent for the college. From an impoverished North dele lina, then suffering the after effects of the Cleveland a : from hundreds of people and in small gifts, ble yle cajoled (that’s the proper word) money to build the 3 ital; and alumni building; money to build the college hospi : Ge in years following his personal efforts added $125,000 to the endowment. Here is truly a great record! But he rendered his greatest and most lasting service as the encourager and inspirer of youth. Rarely did he fail to preface his morning lecture with a short account of stars. And many of them did. Therefore his memory is green in the lives of hundreds of Wake Forest alumni the third and fourth generation, will rise up to call him blessed. I cannot find the language wherewith to acknowl edge my personal indebtedness to him. Despite multitudinous duties pressing in upon him, he yet found time to serve as secretary of the board of educa tion; as treasurer of the students’ aid fund (and he made many personal loans to needy students) ; as president of the State Teachers assembly; as president of the Baptist ‘ State convention; as life long Sunday-school teacher and church deacon. And he spoke frequently—in every county and in almost every town in North Carolina. On the side, he was an excellent man of business, an officer of the Bank of Wake, and a director in the local cotton mill. He was one of the most compelling orators I have ever heard. He never needed preparation for a speech at any time on any subject. Inform him what the subject was, and he was instantly ready. Men sat enthralled at the oratory of John B. Carlyle. And he was the kindliest, the friendliest of men. He > never forgot either a name or a face, and in my judgment he had the largest personal acquaintance, and the largest personal following of any man in North Carolina, He j364 | some act of heroism, some deed of kindness, some poem of | inspiration. He begat in his students a restless desire to. scattered all over the world. It will continue to live in their descendants, and they and their children even unto knew men and he also knew how to trade upon this knowl- €dge for the advantage of the cause of his devotion. While education was his vocation, politics was his avo- Cation. Had he adopted a political career, all who knew him will agree that he could have been governor or United States senator. He loved to lobby around the legis- lature. I have known quite a few expert lobbyists in my time, but none quite so expert as Professor Carlyle. a his lobbying was ever in the interest of some worthwhile Cause—prohibition, the public schools, or some great Moral issue. And he loved to address political conventions—and how the people did love to hear him! But let him enter the Convention hall, and no matter who occupied the plat- form the cry would go up all over the hall, “Carlyle, Carlyle.” Nor did he ever fail to fully live up to the SCcasion, In June, 1911, a wire from Professor Carlyle took me to Black Mountain. The white plague had laid its dread hands upon him. He knew the end was near; he wished his will written. But his life-long passion was still strong. He had been promised a gift of $2,000 for Wake Forest, but the money had not been paid. He had me write a letter and send a wire about it. Then the will was written. € then sat dejected, nor could I cheer him. But next Morning a wire came saying the $2,000 would be paid. he Sparkle came once more into his eye; the old buoy- ancy into his speech. They took him home and there, in the hospital he had Uilt, the peaceful end came July 10, 1911. His nurse bent ver to catch his last conscious words: “Oh God, let thy 8uiding hand rest upon its leaders.” But his prayer was not finished, for the soul of a great Captain had passed i [ 165 SSS reward. He lived with Wake Forest upon his lips; and so he died. “Great souls pass on, and in the whelming sense o! night We sit appalled.” Professor Carlyle married Miss Dora Dunn, of Lead ville, Tenn., and his elect widow still lives. His spirit also lives in two sons who bear right worthily the name of theif distinguished sire: Irvin Carlyle of Winston, one of thé ablest of younger North Carolina lawyers, destined fot the heights of his profession; and Dr. John Bethune, Jre of Burlington, well furnished physician. Professor Carlyle was the uncle of Kenneth M., John T. and Dennis W. Biggs, and Mrs. Pearl McIntyre, all of Lumberton. He has a large number of relatives in thé Saddletree section of Robeson. Professor Carlyle loved the Odes of Horace, and in the thirtieth Ode will be found an epitaph fit for John Bethune Carlyle: “Non omnis moriar, multaque pars mei vitabit Libitinam. Usque postera crescam Laude recens.” (I shall not altogether die; a great part of me will escape death.) [ 166 ] REVEREND I. P. HEDGPETH “T have kept the Faith.” 2 Timothy: 4-7. NORTH GAROLINA has produced great statesmen, _ Such as Vance and Aycock; she has produced great preach- €s, such as Clarence Dixon and George W. Truett; she has produced great educators, such as Archibald D. Murphy, Calvin H. Wiley, Charles D. Mclver; she has Produced great lawyers, such as Iredell Gaston, Pearson, Ruffin and Clark. She has produced great editors, such as Josiah Turner, J. P. Caldwell, Edward J. Hale and Jo- Sephus Daniels; great playwrights such as Thomas Dixon and Paul Green. She has produced great business men, Such as Washington Duke, R. J. Reynolds, James. W. Cannon, John F. McNair. She has produced great in- Ventors, such as Richard Gatling. She has produced great Philanthropists such as James B. Duke. But the greatest force North Carolina ever produced has been the country prcacher—arbiter of public opinion; moulder of human ife, Shubal Stearns, country preacher, laid the foundation of the Baptist Empire in North Carolina. On this foundation built Such men as George M. Webb, of Cleveland; R. H. Marsh, of Granville; Josiah Elliott, of Hertford; F. M. Jordan, of Transylvania; Haynes Lennon of Columbus. And on this foundation built also—I. P. HEDGPETH, of Robeson. His paternal grandparents were William Hedgpeth and Apsie Lowe Hedgpeth; his parents were Daniel ee 1 and Eliza Purvis Hedgpeth. He was born at Proctorville, March 31, 1858, and has spent all his four-score years entirely in Robeson county. His education was somewhat delayed, as has been thé case with other men. President Lincoln’s education was of the most rudimentary character. President Johnso0 could not even read until after his marriage, when his wifé taught him. Mr. Hedgpeth acquired the three R’s in thé country schools around Orrum. When twenty-one he at tended Ashpole institute, at what is now Fairmont, a remarkable for the number of notable Baptist ministers trained there, as for the quality of scholarship developed under the leadership and guidance of that peerless country schoolmaster, Stinson Ivey. From him, John B. Carlyle of Wake Forest college received inspiration; from him I. P. Hedgpeth of the College of Human Life also received im spiration. He entered Wake Forest college in the fall of 1887 when twenty-nine years of age. Here he was able to remait but two years, weakness of eyesight developing and pre venting him from attaining the goal of a college degree and a course at the seminary at Louisville. He was ordained to the Baptist ministry at Big Branch (now Orrum) church in January, 1890. He at once entered upon his truly remarkable career as a country preacher in Robeson and adjoining counties. I know of no preacher in North Carolina whose length of pastorates can compare with those of Mr. Hedgpeth, nor do I know any church which willingly dispensed with his ministry once fortunate enough to secure his services. His principal pastorates have been: Orrum, forty-seven years; Long Branch, forty-one years; Cedar Creek, twenty-three years (Cumberland county) } [ 168 ] Galeed, re-organized as Bladenboro, twenty-nine years (Bladen county) ; Saddletree, nineteen years; Tolarsville, seventeen years; Proctorville, fifteen years. : : Shorter pastorates have been: Spring Hill (now Barnes- Ville) ; Back Swamp; Ten Mile; Hog Swamp; Mt. Elim; Pleasant Grove; McDonald; Cedar Grove; Fairmont; Piney Grove (Columbus county) ; Boardman (Columbus county) ; Abbottsburg (Bladen county) . I do not claim that Mr. Hedgpeth is our greatest Preacher, yet the bare length of his pastorates speak much louder and clearer than anything I could say of the power of his gospel, the character of his leadership, the quality of his ministry. I do not claim that he is our most profound scholar. He has been largely a man of one Book. Thomas Gray devoted seven years to his Elegy; Dr. Samuel Johnson devoted twenty years to his dictionary; Mr. Hedgpeth has devoted seventy years to—his Bible. And he has been the Means of introducing it to hundreds of people who might Not have known it, he has introduced its precepts into their lives, he has introduced them to its living waters ee its abundant life; he has pointed them to its eternal ife, I do not claim that he is our deepest thinker. Yet some- how those arch enemies of the country church—the radio at home and the hard-surfaced road of the countryside— have not diminished his congregations. Altho now eighty years of age, like Moses his natural force has not abated, and his people are as anxious and as eager to hear him as they were when he was in the full flush of early manhood. When the Masonic fraternity lay the corner stone of any Public building, the Master Workmen first test the stone [ 169 ] with square and compasses, and then report to the Grand Master whether the stone has been well and truly laic The life of Mr. Hedgpeth has been tested by the rule laid down by his Grand Master, and has been found to comply with the rule laid down by Him for the guidance of his followers: ‘What doth the Lord require of thee but that — thou deal justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with thy - God.” The thousands whose lives have been influenced by him, all those who know the man, will testify with one — accord that Mr. Hedgpeth has dealt justly, loved mercy, and has ever walked humbly with his God. While Mr. Hedgpeth is neither our greatest preacher, — nor our most profound scholar, nor our deepest thinker, he is more than all these combined. He is a great man. In my judgment the acid test of the value of any man to the community in which he lives may be accurately judged by the esteem in which he is held by his fellow men. I think this may be laid down as a rule of well nigh universal application. Tested by this rule, the life of Mr. Hedgpeth looms large, for in any community in southern Robeson, in any community in southern Bladen, and in many com- munities in Cumberland ask the chance wayfarer ‘“Who | is the best beloved man of this community?” and the — answer will come: “Preacher Hedgpeth.” It has been said — that no man can paint the lily, nor gild the rainbow. When I have said that Mr. Hedgpeth is the most beloved in a large section of our territory, anything I might add to this would be superfluous. To my mind the most distinguishing trait of Mr. Hedg- peth is the modesty of his deportment. He has been con- tent to be the follower; he has ever been the servant, not — the master, of his people. His Master girded himself with a towel that he might give to his disciples an example of [ 170 ] humility. Mr. Hedgpeth has girded himself with seventy Years of humble service to his fellowmen in the vineyard of his Lord. pal And if there is another characteristic of the man, it is the gentleness of his character, the quality of his patience. He has kept close to the heart of the common people; he has ever been their friend, their mentor, their counsellor, their guide. When there is sorrow in southern Robeson, Mr. Hedgpeth is sent for; when there is joy, his people Share it with him. 7‘ This mighty servant of God is now eighty years old. I feel that I today speak the sentiments of all Robeson— and much of Bladen and Columbus and Cumberland— when I return thanks for the life of Mr. Hedgpeth, for the wonderful work he has done, for the immense good he has accomplished, and to express the hope that he may be spared to his people for many years yet to come. And With one accord we pray God’s richest blessings upon him. On December 14th, 1896, Mr. Hedgpeth was married to Miss Carrie E. Lucas, of Chester, S. C., and to them have been born the following children: ; Carimae, Musical Directress, Averett College, Danville, Va.; Drina T., wife of John Cushman, of Greenville, S. C., and West Palm Beach, Fla.; Ingram P. Hedgpeth, able Young lawyer of Lumberton; Dr. William Carey Hedg- Peth, promising physician of Lumberton. A reer se the army of his God: I. P. Hedg- Peth. [171] REVEREND HALBERT G. HILL, D.D. “A man after God’s own heart.” 1 Samuel 13-14. IT has been my high privilege to hear some distinguished preachers. I have listened to the brilliant Harry Emerson Fosdick; I have heard the burning eloquence of the great _ Methodist Bishop John C. Kilgo; I have experienced the — personal magnetism of North Carolina’s Clarence Dixon; I have sat enthralled at the soul-searching appeals of George W. Truett. Notwithstanding this, I still say Dr. Halbert G. Hill was a great preacher. I shall attempt no eulogy of Dr. Hill. He lived a life far beyond my poor power to depict. Words are but poor vehicles to use in undertaking to assay the character of such a man, or portray the effective results of such a life. Yet the bare record of his attainments bears silent but — eloquent testimony to the universality of his genius; to the loftiness of his character; to the calibre of his intellect; to his immense service to his Master, his Church, his State and his people; to his firm hold upon the affections of all who knew him; and to the void his departure left in the — life of our section. Dr. Hill was not a native Robesonian, but as Maxton and Flora College was the theatre of his life’s greatest work, we are proud to adopt and claim him as our very own. He was born at Raleigh, N. C., November goth, 1831, the son of William R. Hill. The Hills were a distinguished Raleigh family of ante-bellum days, his father’s brother [172 ] having been Secretary of State of North Carolina for nearly fifty years. The Hills are a long-lived race. Dr. William G. Hill, in whose honor William G. Hill Lodge No. 218, AL F.& A, M., was named, was a near kinsman, as was also Theophilus Hill, noted North Carolina poet. The Hill family moved to Milton, in Caswell county, during the Doctor’s early childhood, and here he was Teared. Here he attended the local academy and from here he entered Hampden-Sydney College, from which he was Sraduated in 187. He then served as principal of a Female Seminary at Clarksville, Va., until 1861, when he €ntered Union Theological Seminary at Richmond to pre- Pare for his life’s work. Here he remained during part of “wo troubled years of Civil War. Volunteering for service in the Confederate army, he Was appointed as Chaplain and assigned to duty with the 13th Regiment of North Carolina volunteers, commanded by that famous North Carolinian, Colonel (afterwards Major General) William Dorsey Pender, who was killed at Gettysburg, and in whose honor our county of Pender is named. In the Confederate army Dr. Hill not only Ministered to the spiritual needs of his command, but to their physical welfare as well, and often assisted the sur- 8€ons in their grewsome task upon the field of battle. He began his great career as a minister of the Gospel 48 pastor of the Presbyterian church at Hillsboro, N. G.,, and it is altogether fitting that he should have begun here, as there is no town in North Carolina which has produced SO many distinguished men as has this small county seat of Orange county. In 1867 he was called to the pastorate at Oxford, and in connection therewith became principal of Oxford Female Seminary, an institution later presided ver by the late Prof. F. P. Hobgood for so ee 1 While pastor at Oxford he founded the Presbyterian church at Henderson, N. C. In 1868 he became pastor at Fayetteville, and there he remained for eighteen fruitful years, doing a monumental work, a work which still keeps his memory green in the hearts of the people of Cumberland County unto this day. And in Fayetteville he laid safely the foundations upon which the Presbyterian cause rested, and upon which it yet stands. ' In 1886 he supplied the pulpit of the Second Presby- terian church at Charleston, S. C., which he served at the time of the great earthquake. When this disaster oc- curred, he conducted himself with the fortitude and cour- © age to be expected from a man of his heroic stature. In the fall of 1886, he became pastor of Centre and Maxton churches and continued as such until his death, which occurred January 15th, 1924, in the ninety-second year of his age. Here he established a record of service without parallel in the annals of North Carolina. For many years before his death he was acclaimed as the Grand — Old Man of Robeson county—loved and revered through- out the length and breadth of our State. Any man might be quite content to rest upon a record of service such as this, but not Dr. Hill. There was no activity of his church with which he was not connected, or which did not bear the impress of his labors. It is a tribute to the modesty of the man when I say I have been unable to ascertain what institution conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Divinity which he wore so worth- ily. I have before me a sketch of his activities written by — himself, but there is no reference there to his Doctorate. I am satisfied, however, that it must have been conferred upon him by Union Theological Seminary, the child of his affections, which he served as member of its board of [ 174] trustees from 1878 until his death—nearly fifty years of Constructive service to a great institution! : He was chairman of the Home Mission Committee of Fayetteville Presbytery from 1872, and a member of the Synod’s Home: Mission Committee from its creation 10 1888, He was connected with the Presbyterian Orphanage at Barium Springs from its very inception. He was a member Of the executive committee which purchased the site for the Original institution. From 1891 he was a member of the board of regents and for many years chairman of such board. With the beloved Rev. S. M. Rankin, Dr. Hill gave 8enerously of his time and counsel in behalf of Flora MacDonald College; was one of its most helpful friends and wisest counsellors. Men may come and go, but the Name of Dr. Hill will never be forgotten upon the campus of Flora MacDonald. He was moderator of Fayetteville Presbytery many times; and he served as Moderator of the North Carolina Synod when it met at Salisbury in 1881. He was seven times a Commissioner to the Presbyterian General Assem- bly, and at the session of that body held at Chattanooga in 1889, his church laid upon him the accolade of its highest honor—electing him as Moderator of the As- Sembly. i _ The General Assembly will meet again next spring, Just fifty years after Robeson’s great son was thus honored. Dr. Hill was richly endowed by nature, and upon this endowment he built the structure of a great life. He lived and loved the life of the common man; he shared the joys and sorrows of the common people. Aged men and women Came to him for comfort and consolation, but so also did little children. Nor was he austere or severe. His smile [175] was ever winning; his laughter was infectious. He served both God and man, and it was permitted to him to live and serve far beyond man’s allotted three-score years and — ten. And to the very end he lived in harness, and remained the wonder and the admiration of all who knew him. Dr. Hill was thrice married. His first wife was Miss ~ Annie Wharey of Hampden-Sydney, Va. The only child of this marriage, a daughter, Mary, died when quite young. His second wife was Miss Annie Kirkland, to whom he was married in 1865. To them were born three children: a child dying in infancy, and two sons, Kirkland - and Halbert, both of whom died after reaching maturity. His last wife was Miss Kate Sheppard of Fayetteville, to whom he was married in 1879. Their children were Katie, . who died in infancy, and Annie, who married Neill Alford of Maxton. To Mr. and Mrs. Alford was born one son, — Halbert Hill Alford, who was accidentally killed a few years ago. The lineal descendants of Dr. Hill have there- fore all passed away, and none remain to bear his name. But the name of Dr. Hill lives—and will ever live—en- graven upon the hearts of the people of Maxton, of Floral — College, and of Robeson County. I had the privilege of hearing Dr. Hill preach but once. Altho this was many years ago, I remember his text (Isaiah 28-16) “Behold I have laid in Zion,” and the sermon he preached at Chestnut St. Methodist church here in Lumberton. Soon after the preacher began his — sermon I was sitting among the stars, catching a vision of the Promised Land. Soon the very gates of the Holy City swung wide; Zion in all its beauty appeared before — my startled eyes; and I beheld the Angels of God ascend- ing and descending even as they appeared unto Jacob of old. Servant of God: well done! [ 176 ] DR. THOMAS CG. JOHNSON FOR some time it has been my desire to pin a rose on the Coat of my friend, and I do so now ere it be too late. Not that I think anything may happen to him, because he is in his usual robust health, there is the same buoyancy 1n Bs Step, the same cheery note in his voice, that were ae days of yore. But I myself am getting old, and the time May come when I can no longer pay him the tribute I Could wish, and which he so richly merits from the people Who dwell in the valley of the Lumber. i The history of Robeson is rich in the field of medicine. There was Dr. Duncan Sinclair of the Rowland vicin- ity, but such a one! In his day he stood for Southern Obeson, and he served the State in the famous Constitu- tional Convention of 1835. He was the father of Judge N. A. Sinclair. There was Dr. John B. Brown of what 1s Now Fairmont, father of Dr. John P. Brown of that me- ‘ropolis, He was the guide, confidant and friend of all his ‘ection, and loomed large in the life of his day. There was Dr. A, Bascom Croom of Maxton, pioneer in the field of local hospitalization. At Red Springs we find Dr. Luther McMillan, friend of Flora MacDonald College, and his Kinsman, Dr. Frank McMillan, friend of Robeson. Out ™ the open country we find Dr. S. B. Rozier, who rode the Toads of Robeson day and night for more than fifty Years, and wrote his name upon the hearts of his people. At St. Pauls there was the outstanding physician, Dr. Thomas L. Northrop, useful servant of his section. Here in Lumberton there have also been some out- “tanding physicians—men who rendered a large measure [177] of service to their fellows and whose memories are chet ished in the hearts of present-day Robesonians. There was the surgeon Dr. Richard F. Lewis (father of Mrs. Abnet Nash); Dr. John D. McMillan, faithful in service fot long years; Dr. Henry T. Pope, beloved of his people. J put Dr. Richard M. Norment in a class by himself, for iD sheer native ability he tops the list of the medical men ! have known. Dr. Thomas C. Johnson was born in what is now Leé County in 1879. He was raised in Moore where he got his education at Union Home Academy, near Carthage. In his youth he loved to potter around portable country saW mills, which were then engaged in a task they so succes* fully completed—ridding our forests of their wealth of original long leaf pine. One day there was a terrible acci’ dent; a man was horribly wounded. Young Johnson in” provised and applied a tourniquet, stayed by the wounded man during the long hours that elapsed before a physicial could be gotten to the scene, and evinced such an aptitude for the service of medicine and surgery, that his fathe! made him go to Richmond and enter upon the study medicine. My old professor of mathematics at Wake For est, Luther Rice Mills, said that he ‘‘lived on the East wind” for four years in Lee’s army. That was bad enough) but consider the plight of young Johnson, for when he was in Richmond, sometimes even the wind did not blow: But he managed to secure his medical degree from thé Medical College of Virginia, as also his license to practice Among his schoolmates at Richmond were the eminent surgeon in the field of brain surgery, Dr. C. C. Colemat: _ of Richmond; Dr. R. B. Miller, outstanding surgeon of Parkersburg, West Virginia; and Dr. Carey T. Greyson: physician to President Wilson, Rear Admiral in the Navy: head of the American Red Cross. [178] He married Miss Annie May Powell of Whiteville, and Practiced there for four years. Then he settled down at “umberton where at an early date he acquired the reputa- “on which he still possesses, and which has simply grown through the years. In a business transaction, any novice Could get the better of the Doctor, for he possessed a faith ™ all mankind that was abiding, and he always took a Man at his word. When I first knew him, you had to threaten to sue him to make him send you a bill for what You owed him! He hated to charge a man for his work, and still does so with extreme reluctance. They finally ad to get a business manager for him, just as they had ‘0 do for a certain well known charitable and generous Lumberton merchant, who wanted to give away every: thing he had—so well remembered that it is not necessary ‘o further identify him. The Doctor started out in private practice, but aft tTagic death in an accident of the beloved Dr. Neill Archie Thompson, he took over the management of the old Thompson Hospital—an immense three-floored structure, built of heart pine. One night it caught fire, and Decay a *oaring furnace before which the firemen were impotent, aM qd it burned to the ground. Dr. Johnson got every pa- Hent Out, without injury, and he ministered to them throughout the night. i Then the Lumberton people bethought themselves 0 the erection of a hospital as a memorial to the beloved t. Thompson, and the institution known as ‘THOMPSON Memoria Hospirat was launched, Dr. Johnson being Physician and surgeon in charge. This was originally a Privately owned corporation, its stock held by various Umberton citizens who admired Dr. Johnson and who *Ppreciated the service he was rendering this section. Later : Property was conveyed to a board of trustees, and it [179] er the became one of the hospitals of the type entitled to the benefit of the Duke Foundation. The hospital has bee? greatly enlarged, a nurses’ home built, and it has done a2 enormous service to this section. The one crying need of the community to-day is for enlarged hospital facilities, for both hospitals are filled to overflowing. But it is not of the institution I would write, but of its chief of staf, Dr. Thomas C. Johnson. I think I can paint his portrait in but a few brief sentences. To my mind his most outstanding characte! istic is his sympathetic understanding. You of course re member the story to be found in the Book about thé traveler who fell among thieves on the Jericho road, and how he lay wounded by the roadside, crying for help. You recall how the Priest and the Levite came along, but passed by on the other side. Then came a Samaritan—of a race not loved by the Hebrews—but he stopped and ministered to the wounded man, put him on his own beast, took hi® to the khan and paid all the charges. Fine and great! But the Book records only one such incident in the life of the Samaritan. Dr. Johnson has been doing this sort of thing every day for forty years. His next characteristic is his patience. There was a mal in the land of Uz whose name was Job, on whom afflictions fell so thick and so fast that his own family told him t0 curse God and die. But Job said not so: “The Lord has given, the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” Dr. Johnson possesses the quality of patienc€ in a larger degree than any man of my acquaintance; and with this goes a cheery disposition, the smile of friendship: the handclasp of appreciation, the high quality of ablé and efficient daily service, which combine to make hit admired and loved by all who know him. Habakkuk is one of the minor prophets. In the great [ 180 ] Congressional Library at Washington, there are alcoves “Voted to the different arts and sciences, such as religion, Philosophy, law, medicine, agriculture, engineering, chem- ‘stty, and the like, and over each alcove is carried some Steat Motto to illustrate the particular art or science to Which the alcove is devoted. When they went to select a Motto for religion, they were inspired to write over 1ts Portals this text from Habakkuk: “What doth the Lord require of thee but that thou deal justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with thy God. That verse describes Dr. Johnson as though it were "titten about him. Any man in Robeson who has known " Johnson for the past thirty-five years (and we all have) , knows that during all those years the Doctor HAS dealt justly, that he Has loved mercy; and that he HAs walked humbly with his God. No further picture of the Doctor is necessary, the verse I have quoted describing bim far more accurately and far more completely than I “uld hope to do. Rene Doctor need not worry so much about the final Mdgment. When the Great Judge takes his seat upon the Pench, and calls the case against Doctor Johnson, Wilton CLean will speak a good word for the Doctor—many of them, So will Stephen McIntyre, Luther H. Caldwell, Quitman T. Williams, Robert D. Caldwell—any of the loved of Lumberton who preceded him to the home of Be Soul. Charlie Skipper will be there to greet him and 'd him welcome. Yet he will need no introduction to the Great Judge, T he has long been a junior partner of the GREAT AYstcray, fo P [ 181 ] SoS See sh se teas aS ——____—_—_---—- ANGUS DHU MacLEAN “And man’s unconquerable mind.” Wordsworth: Toussaint L’Ouverture. THE valley of Lumber River is noted for the quality of its culture. From her borders have come statesmen, preach” ers, lawyers, editors, poets. In this valley is the Riverto? community, having more college graduates per squat® mile than any country community in North Carolin® From here came the Johnsons: Archibald, noted edito™’ and his son, Gerald W., nationally known editorial writ@! and author; Livingston, mighty preacher of the word: leader of North Carolina Baptists for a generation; a? his son, Wingate M., noted surgeon, president North Car lina Medical Association. From here also came their ne kinsman, having the spark of true genius, John Charlé McNeill, poet laureate of North Carolina. From lower down the valley came the kinsmen of out subject, Col. Neill Archie McLean of Lumberton, bri! liant son of Robeson, whose power as a lawyer I hav never seen surpassed. And their kinsman, Angus Wilto” McLean, lawyer, business executive, Assistant Secretary g the Treasury, great Governor of a great State. And thei! kinsman, Robeson’s outstanding lawyer of the present day’ our own Dickson McLean. And from the center of the valley, from Maxton, cat another and closely related family of MacLeans: Tb° father, John Allen MacLean Sr., Maxton business ma! the mother, Mary Brown MacLean, sister of that disti*™ [ 182 ] pi.t5 its §Uished North Carolina jurist, justice George H. Brown °ur supreme court bench. sue With such an ancestry, and such a background, it is not ‘emarkable that to John Allen MacLean and his wife were ‘°mn children gifted of mind, worthy to carry on the tradi- ‘8s Which were their heritage: | (a). Sylvester B. MacLean, conspicuous once as a “Wer, Solicitor of this judicial district, who abandoned st extensive practice and a commanding position at the bar to become a minister of the Presbyterian church. In 2 doing he followed the example of that mighty man of God, Rev. William Black, who was also an able lawyer, but who found the call of the ministry all-compelling. And Sibbie is, as was Mr. Black, beloved of his people. ch (b). John Allen MacLean, magnetic in personality, ‘Ting in manner, scintillating of intellect. He also »tdoned a most promising career at the Bar for the r ; ee : _ Sbyterian ministry, and has for years rendered con pctous service to his church and State as pastor of Ginter “TK church, at Richmond, Virginia. (). Dickson MacLean, merchant and business execu- © of Red Springs. nee ANGUS DHU MacLEAN, premier North Caro- i 4 lawyer, legislator and statesman—possessing such an i cllece as few men have ever possessed. 1 ANGus DHU MacLEAN was born at Maxton, July et 1877. He attended the private schools of the neigh- mors and the University, where he graduated in law ti Was admitted to the Bar in 1898. He began the prac- “€ of his profession at Washington, N. C., and henceforth faint county was the scene of his life’s work save when Was called to the public service. ‘ Washington he was at various times associated in rtership with many eminent lawyers of Beaufort [ 183 ] tiy, County: John H. Small, veteran Congressman, for many years chairman of the Rivers and Harbors committee the House; Harry McMullan, present able Attorney Ge eral of North Carolina; Stephen C. Bragaw, distinguishe4 North Carolina jurist; William B. Rodman Jr., and Job? C. Rodman Jr., scions of the famous Rodman family 9 Beaufort, numbering among its members justice Willia” B. Rodman of the supreme court; and his able son, Col. W. B. Rodman, general counsel Norfolk Southern Rail’ road. Beaufort County was a proper theatre for a great lawye™ From her soil sprang James E. Shepherd, chief justice North Carolina; William B. Rodman and George u. Brown, Associate Justices; Charles F. Warren, father of Congressman Lindsay Warren, peerless lawyer of his day’ Col. William B. Rodman, above referred to, and many other outstanding lawyers. Yet Angus Dhu MacLean w4 | the peer of any of these notable men. He devoted himself entirely to his profession until 1927 when he was elected to the General Assembly. Here 5° served in the House in 1927, 1929 and 1931. In 1933 he was elected to the Senate. His legislative career was notablé for the magnificent fight waged by him in behalf of th® public schools, when he sponsored and against bitter opp” sition finally secured the enactment of legislation provid ing for an eight months school term at the expense of th® State. If the memory of Mr. MacLean should be forgotte? by others, it should ever remain green in the hearts ? those who love the schools of our State. When he enteré the General Assembly he was known only to the legal pr? fession as a brilliant lawyer; but when his legislative caret! was ended, his name was a household word all over North Carolina. In 1933 he was called to Washington, D. C., as Assista”! [ 184 ] Solicitor General of the United States, and was later made Assistant Attorney General. In this capacity he was in tharge of, and argued on behalf of the government, the Most important case argued before that august tribunal “Mee the Civil War—the case testing whether bonds, notes “nd securities payable in gold coin could be legally paid a Money other than gold. This case he won, and the de- “sion was an epoch-making one, second only in impor a Ce to the Dred Scott decision which had much to do me bringing on the Civil War. He Voluntarily resigned his position in October, 1935; “ceiving the warm commendation and thanks of the Pres- ident and the Attorney General for the efficiency of his "vices. The estimation in which he was held by the lega! Profession is attested by the fact that upon the death of James H. Pou, Sr., of Raleigh, premier North Carolina lawyer, Mr. MacLean was selected to succeed him, and he “came senior member of the firm of MacLean, Pou and Enanuel, in which capacity he continued until his sudden and Untimely death on September 1st, 1937; when at the eight of his career. Twas admitted to the Bar the same year as was Mr. Mac- “an, and since then it has been my high privilege to , OW more or less intimately practically all those who have stood high upon the rolls of our famous lawyers dur- ng that period. Of all the brilliant men it has been my Pleasure to know, the most brilliant, in my judgment, was Sbeson’s famous son, Col. Neill Archie MacLean, but Slowing closely behind came his near kinsman Angus Dhu Maclean. - 0€ts are said to be born, not made, and it can be said Mth all truth that Mr. MacLean was a born lawyer. He had the clearest, quickest, most incisive, most logical mind ave ever known. The highest tribute I can pay ee [ 185 ee ability is to say that when I heard he was to appear against me, I could but groan deeply and try to get ready against a day when I knew my powers would be taxed to the ut most. He was a mighty power before either judge or jury: and there was no case of importance within his sphere of activity in which he did not appear. Among the notablé cases under his direction were: State v. Mills; the natiov™ ally known case of State v. Stone, et als. (commonly know? as the Needleman case) ; the famous Martin county cas¢ involving the property, tenets and doctrine of the Prim tive Baptist church; and he was the power behind the caveat to the Brown will case. It is a conservative statement when I say that if easter? North Carolina lawyers of the past two decades were asked the question: “Who are the two best lawyers i? eastern Carolina?” 90% would assign to Angus Dhu Ma® Lean one of the two places. He was not easy of access, he was rather a difficult ma” to know well. He did not wear his heart upon his sleeve and the concentration of his mind upon the subject matte! in hand might make him sometimes appear self-centered or morose. But such a judgment would be a superficial one, for underneath this exterior there beat as warm 4 heart as ever pulsed, instantly responsive to the call & friendship or affection. And his friends and admirers weré limited only by the circle of his acquaintance. I have been able to resolve most men into their com ponent and constituent parts, but not Mr. MacLean. Hé was pure intellect. And when he passed away, a great ligh! went out from the legal fraternity in North Carolina. Mr. MacLean was married in 1900 to Miss Annett4 Everett of Laurinburg, and to them were born five chil dren: Angus Dhu Jr., whose sad death at eighteen wa5 the tragedy of his father’s life; Mary, wife of Dr. A. J: [ 186 ] ; Jemnett of Washington, D. C.; Annette, wife of Edward English, of Washington, D. C.; Martha, wife of Erskine Duet, of Raleigh; and Janie, wife of William B. Carter, of shington, D. C. Man of unconquerable mind: ANGUS DHU Mac- [ 187] ELIZABETH ANN MacRAE “The World is my parish.” John Wesley. PREEMINENCE in personal missionary work is usually accorded to David Livingstone, and quite properly s0- He braved all the dangers of the deep African interiot when it was indeed a dark continent, when a horrible death stalked by his side each day and stood sentinel by his tent each night. But he braved the burning tropi¢ fever, the poisoned arrows of the savages, the cannibalis™ of the fierce warriors of the vast interior—all for the sake of the missionary movement. Communication with his homeland, always slow, diff- cult and uncertain, finally ceased altogether. Many months passed and no word from the African jungles reached civilization, and his homeland feared for the fate of Livingstone. Finally, the multi-millionaire editor of thé New York Herald, James Gordon Bennett, sent a tw0 word cablegram to his correspondent Henry M. Stanley: “Find Livingstone.” Stanley organized a safari, employ ing hundreds of men, costing thousands of dollars. Months of toilsome effort passed before his expedition could pene trate into the heart of Africa. Finally, near the shores of Lake Tanganyika, his long search was rewarded. He wa5 brought face to face with a white man, aged, cadaverous» burning with fever. “Mr. Livingstone, I presume?” “Yes,” replied the sun baked Livingstone. Then Stanley told hi™ of his commission to carry him back to his home and people. But Livingstone shook his head. Africa was bis [ 188 ] : | griitii : d Patish. Here would he live; here would he die. Home an family ties no doubt called loudly to him, but fhe oe 2 God tesounded more loudly in his ears. Heroic missio ary figure! Not on so large a scale, but a figure °mM our own county of Robeson—E i ae pioneer missionary in the wi at word can be used. : She was born November 13th, 1825, daughter of pang 8. Harllee and Harriet (Barnes) Harllee, his wife, ae De Of the noted Harllee family of South Carolina. : June, 1842, she was married to Dr. Neill Me ae 2 Obeson County; and after his death she married Fe t ander MacRae. She had but one child, son of the fe Marriage,—David Harllee NcNair, who served with the Confederate army in Co. “D” 1st Battalion, North Caro- lina heavy artillery, and who died while in such ie ‘t Fort Caswell in July, 1864, when only seventeen. 3 Second husband died in 1881. Bereft of child and husband, just as heroic, came LIZABETH ANN shortly Let us glimpse her at Argyle near Maxton, ce after the Civil War. The section is terrorized by of ruffians headed by the famous outlaw Henry fae OWrie, They broke into her house on more ey ee ®ceasion, and once shot the curls from the back 2 we head, and would have killed her but for the riper of a former army Captain who had deserted from the Federal army. But these things did not cause her to a stound. She stayed where she was. This was there of Which her being was composed. ¥ At an early age she acquired a wide reputatio ent to iCcessful training of children, and many were $ &f to be nurtured and to have the principles of a pe n for the to call her blessed. used both—liberally. For many months she went in and out of the churches of Fayetteville and adjoining Presby- teries, trying to establish the missionary work among Pres byterian women. Nor was she rebuffed by one failure, of even two. Before she ceased her work in this particular field of the missionary movement, she had organized and established more than sixty missionary societies in F ayette- ville Presbytery alone. Here is a record of great construc tive achievement, which will not soon be equalled in the Southern Presbyterian or any other church. Dr. H, G- Hill, noted Presbyterian preacher and scholar, whose life work was in Fayetteville Presbytery, and who was inti- mately acquainted with the work of Mrs. MacRae, says that she was in truth and in fact the mother of thé Woman’s Missionary Union of the Southern Presbyteria? Church. Other women might be content to rest upon such a record, but Mrs. MacRae had just begun her great labors. She cast about for new world to conquer for thé missionary movement. Hannibal said: “Beyond the Alps lies Italy,” and Mrs. [ 190 ] Calvinism instilled into them. Among these were tw0 men whose names are familiar to North Carolinians—het great-nephew Harllee Branch, Assistant Postmaster Get” eral of the United States; and her husband’s nephew; Hugh MacRae, Wilmington capitalist. Her heart was motherly, but her discipline was strict, and every Sunday each child must perforce memorize one Psalm before at- tending church. Yet the wise beneficence of her rule over her little empire, is shown by the fact that aged men, now living, brought up under her tutelage, rise uP From her missionary efforts at home, her labors spread to the Presbytery of her church. If she did not have money at her disposal, she had both time and patience and she : : i field Mac aap Blue Ridge lies a fruitful Rae said: “Beyond the — Into this, the then most Or nie: j the Missionary endeavor. deep lliterate and backward section of North Sree ‘nto the heart of the Appalachian range, midway ee Lenoir and Johnson City, Tennessee, went Mrs. ue ee finally locating in the small village of Banners E ie ‘te undertook the establishment of a school. Se ae Patton; no salary was payable to her; her coe i Pay her only her bare actual living expenses. ee - ae building costing but $25.00, she established a pe He the underprivileged mountain girls. Here she toile oe ‘nd night; here she braved the ignorance and as pe of part of the people; here, without money, supp oe “itipment, she began her struggle in the firm assu ie ‘t Providence would be with her. It was. Her mo : “came “inveniam viam aut faciam’—I will find a Ee °r make one. And she did make a way. Her’s was 4 a ot hard and stern reality—she had but few necessities ae NO luxuries, Her life at best was rough and Pe her arm was once broken in a fall from an ox cart, ae ethod of locomotion as she went the rounds of her s Main. Nor did she at any time neglect those high ee Uties to which she had been called. She might sae “cular education for six days in the week, but aes *““venth she and her pupils worshipped with intense 5 6 nd God prospered her, as He always does those who ee their trust wholly in Him. Soon MacRae Institute W “tablished and her work began to spread. : © Mrs. S. P. Lees was given a goodly inheritan a Material things. The example of Mrs. MacRae, ae 6 : Purpose of her effort, the inspiration of her life, a 2 “art of Mrs. Lees and she determined to add (e) ae substance to the great work there being established. : “ntributed generously of her means to the expansion 0 [191 ] i ce in the enterprise which had been launched on such a modest scale by Mrs. MacRae. The name was changed to Lees MacRae Institute, and by that name it has become know? throughout the State and to much of the South. Moré than two thousand girls have passed through its doors: received the benefit of its enlightened instruction, and the inspiration of its founders. The work of Miss Martha Berry in Georgia has been duplicated right here in North Carolina, and the work was cradled and nurtured by Robeson’s Elizabeth Ann MacRae. She planted and watered and God, as usual, gave the increase. Nor did she retire from her great labors until an incut able malady—cancer—made further labors on her part an impossibility. And the fortitude with which she bore her long suffering; her patience under her tribulatioD» through all of which shone the beauty of her radiant faith, made her death quite as much an inspiration as het life. I shall not undertake the impossible task of limning a portrait of Mrs. MacRae. Such would be utterly be yond my power. But I think I can let my readers catch Just a glimpse of the heroic quality which was hers. Thé veteran Presbyterian divine, Rey. John M. Wells, pastor First Presbyterian church, Sumter, S. C., knew Mrs. Mac- Rae intimately. He was once conducting the funeral of a member of his church, but in the midst of the funeral sermon stopped to say that in her life and faith Elizabeth Ann MacRae stood first among all the christians he had ever known. To this, I think, nothing can be added. “Lead kindly light, I do not ask to see The distant scene: one step enough for me.” [ 192 ] STEPHEN McINTYRE “The noblest Roman of them all Shakespeare: Julius Caesar. THERE may be some doubt as to whether sues a Was the birthplace of Old Hickory, as Sut ig: few Claims that the great Andrew Jackson was born a : Yards over on her side of the state line. Be that as fie of ‘te is no question but that the red and tock) at men Nion have produced their complement oh oe oe pict tt of our state. From her soil sprang Thomas wae t—-gov- he of the golden tongue and the pple ee 2 “Mor of North Carolina; Enoch Walter Sikes, ue flee St Professor, president of Coker and Cen = law- 1 South Carolina; John J. Parker, nationally Hey ba Yer, justice of the United States Circuit Court o ae of at Richmon d. And from her countryside came the pee "NY of these men—STEPHEN McINTYRE. h Paul acknowledged his indebtedness both to t and the unwise. Let me say at the outset that I ie Bo obligation to many men, but most of all to Stephen ae Intyre, My one wish is that I had the power to oe ‘ibute 7 would like to pay to the memory of the Who was very dear to me. He was born 16th day of April, 1867, s d in McIntyre and Martha Hill, his wife. He was reare : nstruc- the midst of the horrors and hardships of the fe toil a . ? tion era. He came up through its poverty an : s inborn and something of the ruggedness of that period wa! ne e wise under on of Isaiah and inbred into the very fibre of the man, and made him the great figure he became. He acquired such preparatory schooling as he received at Palmerville academy, but he heeded the call of ambi- tion, went to Wake Forest and there sat for four years at the feet of Taylor, Royall, Mills and Sledd, graduating in the class of 1893. Among his classmates were: Josiah Wil- liam Bailey, United States senator; Edwin Yates Webb, congressman and Federal judge; Samuel J. Porter, pastot First Baptist church, Washington, D. C.; Charles P. Sapp: editor Norfolk Virginian-Pilot; Franklin P. Hobgood, prominent Greensboro lawyer; and lastly our own beloved Dr. Charles H. Durham. Wake Forest college has ever bee? generous with Robeson county, but she dealt a double portion of her bounty when in 1893 she presented to thé county her sons, Charles H. Durham and Stephen Mc Intyre. He taught school at Louisburg two years to secure thé funds to enable him to read law, then returned to Wake Forest and was the first student to matriculate in the law school of that peerless teacher of the law, Dr. Needham Y. Gulley. The first law class at Wake Forest consisted of three men: Walters Durham, Raleigh banker (kinsmat of Dr. Charles H. Durham) ; John H. Kerr, of Warrent- ton, jurist and congressman, and Mr. McIntyre. He came forthwith to Lumberton and here was spent a life so rich in useful public service. He soon was taken into partnership by that great moral and religious leader; Edward Knox Proctor, Jr., and that association continued until the death of Mr. Proctor in October, 1902. In March, 1903, the writer was taken into partnership, to which firm was later added that great souled and gallant gentle- man, James Dick Proctor. Still later Robert A. McIntyré [ 194 ] ; 3 ist until Was admitted to this firm which continued to exist the untimely death of Mr. McIntyre. Since leaving college it has been my prt hurch, their Many men who have served their state, their c , Profession and their fellow men. I have known eee Men whose service was outstanding in one of these e 5 But the service of Stephen McIntyre was ¢ eee i the the life of his state, his church, his profession, an in Usiness life of his community. The lofty ch £ Mr. : y character o s Nself upon the people of his adopted county, and hee ‘arly called to the public service. He was eee 2 the Senate in 1899 and again in 1901, during one oe Which sessions he rendered conspicuous service bot ee Slate and to his county. Joining hands with Re dj.s ‘presentatives in the house, Gilbert Patterson an hich Oliver, he secured the enactment of Ae cea Tesulted in making Robeson the pioneer proh : ime of great po- “ounty of eastern Carolina. 1901 was a t sr Aycock litical unrest, The Democrats had swept the BaF d been ad become governor; the grandfather clause . a acted into law. But the Supreme court was ee “aN, and the Democratic leaders sought the impeac ssure Of the three Republican judges. iremendoy . e con- Was brought to bear upon McIntyre to vote ee oe Viction—he was told that his. political career am ee Professional future were at stake. But he ete € ‘gh quality of conscience and a high cuales ae nich "nd he asserted both in voting for acquittal—in if Co- Ourageous act he was joined by that great a fo) nee limbus, Joseph A. Brown, his fellow senator rom district, ; But his Outstanding service to his state was his duction and sponsorship of the bill appropriatt privilege to know McIntyre soon impressed s intro- ng the [195 ] first $100,000.00 ever appropriated by the state to the sup” port of the public schools. This legislation he engineered through the senate, and John B. Holman of Iredell saW it through the house. Should the memory of Mr. McIntyre ever be forgotten, let it ever remain fragrant in thé minds and hearts of the school children of our state who today reap the rewards of his labors in their behalf. He applied himself to the cause of his church with a steadfast devotion, and was for years the support and stay of his pastor. He was long the chairman of thé board of deacons of the First Baptist church of Lumbe ton. As teacher of the men’s Bible Class of that church) he was known throughout the state and men came from far and near to hear his matchless exposition of the lesso? of the day. And it was before this forum that he was at his best; here he loved to be; and it was not an acci- dent that when he died his outline of the lesson of that very day—‘Though I speak with the tongue of men and of angels’’—was still upon the board. Men still speak of the wondrous words spoken by him that Sunday mornin§ when he was to meet sudden death that very night. And his church, knowing his love for her, called hit to her service, and to her interests he gave much of his time, energy and ability. He served for years as a trustee of his alma mater, Wake Forest; as a trustee of Meredith college; and as a trustee of the Baptist orphanage at Thomasville, and also as attorney for that institutio? which lay so close to his heart, and which he aided in lay ing upon the hearts of Lumberton Baptists. He was thé only man who ever served his church as trustee of thes three leading Baptist institutions. But over and above all he was a devout Christian, an humble follower of bis Master, and the vacant pew left in his church can never be filled. [ 196 ] ri8i IE AT cing arn ee “15 high To his other talents he added business ability of a hig / Order, Coming up from poverty himself, as have eee (istinguished men, he amassed a considerable es oa and ‘0k a leading part in the business life of a f Lum- “Ounty. He was a director in the National Bank o otton berton, in the Lumberton cotton mills, Dresden rales Tills and Jennings cotton mills, and in numerous oe a “tporations. He was one of the largest farmers Suake County, and his sage business advice was ee ety sid heeded by those needing advice upon yell and Albert Ness or investment. He, Robert D. Caldwell an : eat Edward White were the confidants of Lumberton gr Usiness executive, Angus Wilton McLean. a He was one of the most eloquent and compe i and ‘ots I have ever known. I have heard many roug ak tumble debaters, men who had to think, act ang spt Surpass Mr. McIntyre as a debater, and but few €qual him. Many Robeson audiences have Sere eats °und upon his words as a torrent of eloquence which Pour from his lips in advocacy of some cause 1 ae Be forces of civic pride or moral righteousness we rested, i Of course the law was his life’s work and he 1s oe known to fame as a lawyer. I have known men se "ew more law than he; I have ROW ee tee ase Make a deeper impression when arguing before a ‘ Ae 4 legal theorem. But give Mr. McIntyre a eeu a ae to argue and a jury before whom to argue if—he ee Telmeq supreme. I have known some great cues ee Whose power to sway juries was unquestioned, but ee ‘ever known an advocate more compelling than he. blic ‘Was known that he was to speak in any cause of nee Mterest, the people crowded the court house to [197 ] m- Boston, Mass. : Lillian, of Lumberton; Robert A., pro him—and they always heard a great speech by a great Rent lawyer of Lumberton, recently elected senator from advocate. district: Stephen, prominent Lumberton physician I never knew a man with a more profound knowledg® and surgeon : of human nature. He could take just one look at an OP” A power for righteousness in North Carolina: Stephen posing or hostile witness, instantly seize upon his vul: McIntyre. nerability, and often before the witness realized its he would be turned inside out and utterly demolished. His cross examinations were the delight of his brethren of thé | bar and of his audience, and the dread of the witnes under examination. Here he was at his best, and hi matchless matching of wits worth going miles to hear. He was most natural in character when leading som? fight for a cause in which he believed, such as educatio™ prohibition, or the fight once waged by him, without — | money and without price, against the Ku Klux Klan ip Heh the courts of Robeson. That case he lost before the court) _ but he won it before the court of public opinion both — in Robeson and in North Carolina. Such a public servic® was an outstanding characteristic of the man, and is but an instance of that fine service he was ever ready to rendet for a cause in which he believed. He died suddenly on Sunday, 18th day of October, 1925’ in the full flush of his powers and while at the very height of his career. I never think of him as having passed away: To me he will ever live in the church of his devotion her in Lumberton; his impress will ever be felt at Waké Forest, at Meredith, at our orphanage; our schools will ever feel the impetus given by him to their cause whilé a legislator; the forces of righteousness will ever feel thé touch of his guiding hand; but most of all the people of Robeson will ever hold his memory close to their hearts: Mr. McIntyre married, 12th day of October, 1893, Miss Minta Allen of Wake Forest, who survives with four chil dren: Mildred, wife of Lee P. Stack, insurance executive [ 199 ] [ 198 ] ee eee = See = ce Se Se of age, has given her life to the cause of missions. For ‘Wwenty years she was president of North Carolina Woman's Missionary Society, 1916-1936, and for twenty-two years Vi . ey ee i xili- °€ president of the Woman’s Missionary Union, Au SALLIE LOU McKINNON has “Y to the Southern Baptist Convention. Mrs. Jones “tved longer than any woman in the South—fifty-t | Years, Here was the ideal Christian home—high Christian Hal \ Culture on both sides, both rendering Christian service of { “Go ye therefore and teach all nations.” Matthew: 29-18. WILLIAM CAREY, London cobbler, was the founder of a highest order. Mrs. Jones is sister of Senator Josiah | the modern missionary movement. His example fired th© an Bailey, but her path is not lighted by the lustre | ie heart of at least four North Carolina women with a hig! ; his fame. Her great service shines with a lustre all its j | Wn, and holy purpose to devote their lives and talents to the missionary enterprise. Two of these women were fro , From Maxton, in Robeson, came the heroic figure of Wake; two from Robeson. lizabeth A. MacRae. We glimpse her first mothering and In Raleigh lived Miss Fannie E. $. Heck, my Sunday ue orphaned kindred, including her nephew, Harlee School teacher of fifty years ago. Socially prominent 23° ‘anch, former Assistant Postmaster General, now Chair- of independent means, the social life did not appeal © me Aviation Board, Department of Commerce. With her, and her life was spent wholly in the Master’s servic “Nited means at her disposal, at an early age she devoted She was the leader of the missionary movement among “self to the missionary endeavor, and organized some the Baptist women of North Carolina, serving as president me Missionary societies in Fayetteville Presbytery alone. | of the North Carolina Woman’s Missionary Union from ". H. G. Hill truly says that she was the mother of the its organization in 1886 to her death in 1915, and serv oman’s Missionary Union in the Southern Presbyterian at three different times as President of the Southet!? y . . . f a She also wrote large her name in an allied line = Woman’s Missionary Union. She was the representative 9 Tistian endeavor—education. She penetrated the dept Southern Baptist women at the Ecumenical Conferen© : four North Carolina mountains, beyond the Blue Ridge, in 1900 in New York, and the Baptist World Alliance in fe Undertook the education of the youth of that then Philadelphia in 1911. Miss Heck passed away many year® ack ago but her name is still a household word in every Baptist ; “ward section, receiving only her expens’ for we “Vices. She interested a woman of means in the education home, and her memory green in every Baptist heart. In Raleigh also lived Wesley N. Jones and Sallie Baile) Jones, his wife. The husband, outstanding layman, a founder of Meredith College, chairman of its Board of Trustees, a trustee of and attorney for Wake Forest cok lege. The wife, woman of five talents, now seventy yea” i indigent mountain youth, she herself contributing her ie work, and from her efforts came Lees-MacRae Instt- mite, at Banner Elk, N. G. Mrs. MacRae was the Martha ; “'ty of North Carolina. It would be just as fitting if I ad that Martha Berry is the Elizabeth MacRae of Corgia. What a mother in Israel! Mrs. MacRae has [ 201 ] [ 200 ] = eof rs mes —————————————— Thomas Alexander McNeill, the subject of Meda ore It is regretted that limitations of space prevent a m! i ill’s distinguished ances- detailed outline of Judge McNeill’s aa he first federal census a daughter of John five children, one f the subject try. Suffice it to say, he was lineally descended from four of the most prominent families of the upper Cape Fear— the McNeills, Gilchrists, Purcells, and McEachins—and he was closely related collaterally to many other prominent families such as the McMillans, McLeans, McQueens, etc. Judge McNeill’s father was a noted Presbyterian divine of his day, a man of rigid principles and inflexible devo- tion to the stern call of duty. Many of his manuscript sermons are still extant. He served many Presbyterian churches of this section, but is probably best known for his notable ministry at Bethel church near Raeford. He was a firm believer in higher education, and estab- lished and maintained two scholarships at his own college of Davidson. It was at the plantation home of his father, on the present highway between Raeford and Wagram, in what is now Hoke county, that young McNeill was reared. It was a typical ante-bellum plantation of the upper classes. The acres were broad, the slaves and servants numerous. It was a small self-contained empire ruled over by its Calvanistic master. But discipline was stern, hard work the order of the day, and amusements few. Here he attended such schools as the neighborhood afforded, and had just entered the University of North Carolina, when the roar of the batteries of Charleston, firing upon Fort Sumter, ushered in the Civil war. He promptly enlisted in the Confederate service, was appointed sergeant; promoted to lieutenant; and served throughout the struggle. At the fall of Fort Fisher, where he served with conspicuous gallantry, Lieutenant McNeill was captured and taken to Elmira, New York, where he remained imprisoned until the end of the war. Upon the re-opening of the university after the war, young McNeill resumed his studies there, and was gradu- [ 216 ] ered among its Purcell of Red Purcell above n to the ated in the class of 1868, which numb members his close kinsman, James Edwin Springs (father of Rev. Dr. James Edwin referred to) noted as a civil engineer, well know older citizens of Robeson. After graduation in his Sues stu study of law under that eminent lawyer : Bide and later he entered the famous school of Ses Justice Richmond M. Pearson—Richmond ee So many of the state’s ablest lawyers received t ae e is training. In due time he was admitted to Le ig A Gon a striking commentary upon the then prostrate ee the of the country following the ills of reconstruction, a issuance of his license was delayed due to 4 ee a inability on his part to raise the nee $17 to pay therefor, Many acres of land, but no cash’ — : : Upon his cei to the bar, he asso ate oe with his first cousin, Hon. Franklin McNeill, who ees one of the outstanding lawyers of hee sais f the after solicitor of his district, and the fires ante t North Carolina Corporation Commission. 2 eae their practice at Shoeheel (now Maxton) , then hon dee Rockingham, but came to Lumberton 10 187 Bia continued in partnership for some years. ae Lumberton became the scene of the life and /Ja Thomas A. McNeill. In 1874 he married Miss Carolin William T. Smith, prominent p county, upon whose LES acres the battle Bee boro was fought during the Civil war. To this cn born three children: (1) Miss Mary Gilchrist Ne who inherits her fine literary taste from her distingu i ., solicitor of this dis- parents; (2) Thomas A. McNeill, Jr : eres tri lawyers now a ict, one of the ablest y! [217] dies, he began the Judge William H. e E. Smith, daughter of lanter of Cumberland and (3) Mrs. Cammie McNeill Russell, wife of James M. Russell, architect, of Atlanta, Georgia. Mrs. McNeill, a most gracious and charming woman, died in 1911—a blow from which Judge McNeill never recovered. As is frequently the case, the young lawyer became interested in political life, and he was elected to the legis- lature in 1870 and again in 1872. Here he had an im- portant part in shaping much of the legislation necessary to restore the state, then slowly emerging from the throes of reconstruction. He was again a member of the legis- lature in 1893, where he attracted much attention by his introduction and advocacy of a bill designed to prevent lynching by penalizing the county in which it occurred. He was more than fifty years in advance of his time, a similar bill being but recently a bone of fierce contention in the halls of Congress. He was long identified with the Democratic state and county organizations. He was for many years chairman of the Democratic County Executive Committee, and for more than twenty years was attorney for the board of county commissioners. He is probably best known for his work in that capacity, for having given the bold advice that if a man applied for license to sell intoxicants this was ipso facto evidence of bad character—advice which was upheld by the Supreme court in the notable case of Commissioners v. Commissioners, 107 N. C. 335, which marked an epoch in the history of local option in North Carolina. In the early ’g0s he formed a partnership with his near kinsman (Governor) Angus Wilton McLean, and this continued until his elevation to the bench. This firm became one of the best known in the Cape Fear section, and had a large and varied clientele. In 1898 his ability as a lawyer, and his character as a [218] tinge :m the nomination and election as eet Ee opciones fice he filled for eight judge of the Superior court, which o ; : a and in see he could have continued indefinitely had he not declined a renomination. As a judge a Be distinguished by his fairness, his patience, his sae a courtesy, his forbearance toward young wo eee the quality of mercy which distinguished his ju ae oe in his administration of the criminal law. ee ee a hexwasepestenownasian equity lawyer, and if there shee case to be tried in which complicated principles of oe Were involved, most lawyers of the Cape Fear He 1 sought to have such a case tried before J udge McNes d to Upon his retirement from the bench, he ue on Lumberton and resumed the practice of law with his se Thomas A. Jr., then but recently admitted to the ee I think the legal career of Judge McNeill can be be the up in the terse statement that he was never De but turmoil of strife, or the bickerings of the cou Seed Z was at his best as a safe and wise counsellor 1n ee ae There, those who trusted to his judgment Gag ee Many) found in him a wise and able lawyer, ee tect the rights of his clients and had the ability to pro them. While primarily a lawyer, Judge MGNS ee - time, and had the inclination, to take an important p fi- in the business life of the community. Such was eo aoe dence of the people in his ability and integrity, that W a the first bank was organized in Robeson conn eee ae st National Bank of Lumberton—he was elected as its r President, and continued as such until his elevation to the bench. After his retirement as judge, upo? nee ization of the Farmers & Merchants Bank ee. ane, Bank & Trust Co.) he was elected as president © pais institution. He served Lumberton as a member OF } [219] board of commissioners and as a member of its board of audit and finance. He always had the forward look, and when an impasse had been reached as to whether the town should have a system of waterworks and sewerage, it was his vote that caused the installation of these improvements. . As might have been expected from his ancestry, Judge McNeill was a devout Christian, being a ruling elder in the Presbyterian church at Lumberton, and teacher of its Bible class for men. No one who knew him ever doubted his implicit trust in the Christian religion, or his reliance upon the faith of his fathers. Like Paul, he knew “in whom he had believed.” Judge McNeill had a notable career as a business man, as a lawyer, as a legislator, as a judge, and as a moulder of public opinion throughout the Cape Fear section, but it is of the man that I like best to think. He was one of the most distinguished looking men I have ever known, his appearance being like unto that of Samuel, judge of Israel. He was a man of wide reading, a large fund of informa- tion, and catholic tastes. His manner was so gracious, his courtesy so exquisite, his conversation so alluring, that men loved to gather around him. He was, moreover, one of the kindliest and friendliest of men. Added to this was a keen sense of honor and a rugged integrity which be- spoke the inflexible veracities of his nature. He died, full of years and honors, at Lumberton, August and, 1921. The work of such a man as Judge McNeill cannot yet be appraised. It will continue to influence the life of Robeson throughout the years of time, and can only be correctly estimated when a final summation is had in the paradise of God. He gave the world assurance of a man! [ 220 ] SS ee = EILL MY INTRODUCTION TO JUDGE MeN ; derstand WHEN I was a law student I was given itis hand- that a lawyer’s legal ability was to be ee onidwriting! Writing—the better the lawyer, pies mn McNeill of Judged by this standard, Judge aed day, for his Lumberton was the foremost lawyer of te experts to handwriting was so atrocious as to defy ev! decipher it. : in the When I began the practice of law 1n ee eee Tne office of Col. John W. Hinsdale of Raleigh. the Supreme after the Colonel was employed to as ee the Superior court a case which other lawyers had trie McNeill. There court of Harnett county before Judge the judge made Were no court stenographers then, ee : i ut his Notes of the testimony of the witnesses ad ae ie the charge to the jury in longhand. The ee instructed judge’s notes, and when they were recelve that he could me to copy the notes on the typewriter 8° 17 cars prepare the case on appeal. I pored over J be I decipher. Notes long and earnestly, but not a word ne upside down, Thinking that possibly I had the manuscr1P ene that I turned it the other way, but it looked pare Colonel way than it had looked before. I appealed ae shook his for help, but when he looked at the eae as holding head sadly. Ascertaining that Judge MeN train with court at Hendersonville, he put me on 2 et Judge instructions to proceed to Heriderso oie? ibe them McNeill to read his notes, and for me to trans¢ on the typewriter. judge, : j d to the judg I reached Hendersonville, was introduce p221] and explained my mission. I greatly enjoyed my trip. The mountain scenery was beautiful, and I thought Judge McNeill was the most distinguished looking man I had ever met. But I did not get what I went after. The Judge could not read his own notes! ; I have often heard that the judge wrote a political arti- cle for The Robesonian, which the printer, knowing his handwriting, managed to decipher with the exception of four consecutive words. He sent a messenger to the judge requesting to be informed what these words were. The judge looked at them attentively. Finally he handed the manuscript back to the messenger and said that he could not quite make out what the words were, but for the printer to be sure and not leave them out because they were “Danged Important Words.” The Judge was a scholar and a gentleman of the old school. He had something of contempt for new things and new ways. His handwriting was good enough for him and he disdained a typewriter. Shortly after I moved to Lum- berton I prepared a lengthy judgment in a case in which the judge was interested, wrote it out on the typewriter, and took it to him for his approval. I was feeling pretty sure of myself, and this fact did not escape the judge. He promptly deflated me. Said he: “Young man, I some- times thank my God that I am not one of these danged typewriter lawyers.” [ 222 ] DR. RICHARD M. NORMENT s in Robeson since dno one has worn distinction than THE name Norment has been famou the first establishment of the county, an this name more worthily or with greater Dr. Richard M. Norment. His forbears came from Georgia, wher GSH MU Se liam S$. Norment, was born at Savannah, se 1800, pur: His father moved to Robeson county Ze ededeihe chased land in Raft Swamp township, Taube “Norment mill,” the remains of which fee Ree Later, he moved to Steele’s Creek townshiP, February county, where the subject of this sketch was born Ist, 1829. : nity, and : commu Young Norment grew up in a Bgnee e of field ough lif from early youth was accustomed to the r nae prior to and stream. He took but three months’ sc Sy ithstanding entering upon the study of medicine, Oe ae of 10- this he became a well-educated man. ee on, and mance and the call to high sive Mexican wat, at the age of 17, upon the outb Bae Scott’s army; and he ran away from home, enlisted in Sc i he 5 ime of his death served throughout the war. At the Hint if not the last, : t, had the distinction of being one of the las ee of the veterans of North Carolina’s service os ici der Dr. Returning from Mexico, he read nee le Green Caldwell, attended the Medical Co ee eee ee ton, S. C., and soon thereafter moved to the practice of his profession. Upon the outbreak of the e his father, Wil- cted as nae was ele Civil war, he [223] captain of a company of troops raised in Lumberton— Co. “A,” 46th North Carolina. He was soon promoted to the rank of major, which rank he held until captured by the enemy. This regiment had the distinction of being commanded by Col. William L. Saunders, who was several times wounded, losing a leg in the battle of the Wilder- ness. After the war, Col. Saunders was elected as secretary of state, and rendered notable service in the compilation and publication of the Colonial Records of the State. After his capture Dr. Norment was paroled, and was at his home as a paroled prisoner of war when Sherman’s army passed through this section in 1865. Once or twice in every generation there arises a man with a natural genius for leadership. Such a man was Dr. Norment. Men instinctively looked to him for guidance, and he instinctively took command in any given situation. His inborn gift for leadership was so pronounced that in any company where the doctor sat, his seat was the head of the table. He had a pronounced flair for public life, and this led to his nomination by the Democratic party and his elec- tion as senator in 1870. This was the famous session when William W. Holden, governor of North Carolina, was impeached for high crimes and misdemeanors. Dr. Nor- ment quite properly voted for conviction on many of the articles. He was again a candidate for the senate in the following campaign, but through some breach of faith on the part of those who should have been his friends, he did not receive the nomination. He so keenly felt the ingratitude of those who should have supported him that he split with his party; and the Republicans, keenly alive to the value of acquiring such a leader, welcomed him with open arms and nominated him as their candidate for the house. Such [ 224 ] a €! he doctor that he was he affiliated with that known and most influ- Was the personal popularity of t triumphantly elected. Thereafter, Party, and became one of the best-know €ntial politicians in the state. His political ae ae fered with him on his political moe ee re ane doubted the integrity of the man, or his fidelity Cause for which he stood. ; F He served with distinction in the ae ase ai 1874, in 1879, and again in 1895. He was the oe feonetes his party for secretary of state in 1876; he ran pre in 1900; and on many occasions he was ae ae Office upon the local county ticket. He wielde ; ing i i i i the state. Durl Influence in the councils of his party 10 cpsione hope with Spartan courage. He “k it as he ran.” sei In 1900 he was appointed by Prest F man Postmaster at Lumberton, succeeding our towns H. Wishart as such. 5 Francis Dr. Norment married his first cousin, ey aaa Norment of Lumberton, and to this yet Oo ASINGE dren were born, only one of whom, Dr. i: ae pee Ment, is still living. After the death of Bae Latnte Married Miss Maggie Rogers of what is now a abel 8. C., and of this union two chi 2 whom, Wallace, still lives. Dr. Norment Ce cade) relatives in Lumberton, including re Norment and Thomas A. Norment Sr., Capt. William S. EE ete, Owen C. Norment, all prominent citizens Oo He died in Lumberton July 30, 1912- oo In my judgment Dr. Norment was a § my day Thave known some of the most brilliant ee 1 say in North Carolina, but I do not exaggerate [285 ] t McKinley as oe John y great man. that he possessed greater NATURAL ABILITY than any man I have ever known. Not a learned man in the ac- cepted meaning of the term, his natural ability was such that he could more than hold his own in any company, on any subject, and it was indeed a rash and presumptu- ous man who would venture to tread upon the doctor’s toes without fear of instant and disastrous reprisal. Even those who did not love him were forced to respect him and admire his great ability. Yet like most great men, Dr. Norment had a tender heart and he loved little children. Being a physician, it might be supposed that he had become hardened to scenes of suffering and death. But not so. He would attend the funeral of a little child, and tears would course down his cheeks as he would see the tiny form lowered into the open grave. He would attend a political rally and make a vicious assault upon his political foes; but that night, if his foe were taken ill, he would sit up through the night and minister to him; nor would he accept compensation for his services! His heart was as large as it was gentle. He was a natural-born physician, if not an entirely sci- entific one. Test tubes, microscopes—all the paraphernalia of the scientist—had little appeal for him. Alleged new discoveries in science did not hold his interest, nor did he lay much store by new nostrums appearing in the pharmacopoeia. The old ways and the old remedies were good enough for him. Yet he could walk into a sick room, correctly diagnose his patient’s malady, and somehow his old-fashioned remedies had the sovereign merit of curing the patient. He ushered into the world more than 3,000 Robesonians. It is for his quality of mercy that Dr. Norment was most loved and is best remembered. No matter how cold the night, how long the way, how bad the roar, or how pov- [ 226 ] erty-stricken the patient, Dr. Norment always responded to the call of human suffering, and there yet remain in Robeson hundreds who call him blessed. Like Abou Ben Adhem, the doctor loved his fellow-men. Dr. Norment’s personal appearance was most imposing. I have always thought he looked as Moses must have looked when he received the law from Jehovah upon the heights of Sinai. And the doctor had, as Moses had, the God-given gift of leadership which would brook no denial. Ave atque vale! [ 227 ] a = CAPTAIN WILLIAM S. NORMENT JAMES KENAN was one of the most distinguished of colonial North Carolinians. He was a member of the Committee of Public Safety; member of the Provincial Congress at Hillsboro in 14775, and at Halifax in 1776; and commanded a force of Duplin County militia operat- ing against the uprising of the Highland Tories which resulted in the battle of Widow Moore’s Creek Bridge. He was a member of the House of Commons for several terms, and after the Revolution served NINE consecutive terms as Senator from Duplin. Kenansville, county seat of Duplin, was named in his honor. James Kenan was the progenitor of the famous Kenan family of Duplin county, among the more recent illustri- ous members of that family being Thomas S. Kenan, Con- federate Colonel and Supreme Court clerk; William R. Kenan, benefactor of the university, in whose honor Kenan stadium at Chapel Hill is named; and Mary Lily Kenan, whose first husband was Henry M. Flagler, partner of John D. Rockefeller and builder of the Florida East Coast railroad, and whose second husband was Robert W. Bingham, ambassador to the Court of St. James. Penelope Kenan, daughter of James Kenan, married Col. Richard Clinton, distinguished soldier and patriot, in whose honor Clinton, county seat of Sampson county, was named. Mary Eliza Clinton, daughter of Col. Richard Clinton and Penelope his wife, married General Alfred Rowland of Robeson county, whose ancestry was traced in my re- cent article on his grandson, Col. Alfred Rowland. [ 228 ] Penelope Kenan Rowland, daughter of General Alfred Rowland, and Mary Eliza his wife, married Thomas A. Norment of Robeson county, the first of numerous sons Of Robeson to bear that name. To this union, on July 20th, 1833, was born a son, William Stokes Norment, the Subject of this sketch. William Stokes Norment attended Wake Forest college and the University of North Carolina, taking his degree from the latter with the class of 1859. Upon the outbreak of the Civil War, he volunteered in the Confederate service, and enlisted as a private in com- Pany “D” of the 18th North Carolina regiment, but four months later he was elected as captain of company “F’, _ 51st North Carolina regiment, with which he served until incapacitated by wounds. He will hereafter be called by his military title. There was another company of Confederate infantry Organized at Lumberton, of which Condary Godwin (brother of Berry Godwin) was captain. The patriotic ladies of Lumberton presented a Confederate battle flag to each company, and both flags were captured in battle by the Union forces. The flag of Captain Godwin’s com- Pany was never recovered, but after the heat of passion caused by the war had in a measure subsided, Captain Norment advertised seeking the return of the flag of his company, and as the result of such advertisement the flag Was returned by its generous captors. This flag is a treas- ured possession of his daughters hereinafter referred to. Captain Norment was a brave and fearless soldier. He Participated in the “Seven Days” battles around Rich- Mond, in the heavy battle of Second Manassas, and in the bloody three days’ decisive battle on the field of his- toric Gettysburg. In May, 1864, during the siege of Pe- tersburg, while defending Fort Harrison, one of the forts [ 229 ] encircling that’ city, he was so severely wounded as to incapacitate him for further army service. Captain Norment was a lawyer by profession, having just entered upon the practice when the war broke out. After his enforced retirement from army service, in De- cember 1864 he married Miss Emma Douglas Harriss of Wilmington, a sister of the mother of that veteran North Carolina lawyer, Hon. John D. Bellamy of Wilmington, still in the active practice of his profession and perhaps the oldest practicing attorney in the state. Mr. Bellamy has had a most distinguished career at the North Caro- lina bar, and for a number of years served this district in Congress. When the Democratic party determined to redeem the state in 1874, the party naturally put forward its strong- est men as candidates, and Captain Norment became the candidate of his party for solicitor, his opponent being Thomas H. Sutton of Fayetteville. Later,. during the fusion regime, Mr. Sutton was elected as speaker of the house of representatives and as judge. Altho part of the Democratic ticket went down in defeat, Captain Norment was elected. This judicial district was much more exten- sive then than now, and included the county of New Hanover. Upon his election as solicitor, he moved to Wilmington, where he resided until the expiration of his term of office. He made an enviable reputation as solicitor and was a fearless and able prosecuting officer. Returning to Lumberton, he formed a partnership with that notable Robesonian, Colonel William Foster French, and this partnership continued until the death of Colonel French. This firm was one of the best known in the Cape Fear section, and appeared in nearly every notable case, including the famous McDougald case at Fayette- ville and many other notable cases. After the death of [33°] Colonel French, Captain Norment retired from active Practice, altho he continued as county attorney until a short time before his death. He enjoyed the reputation of being one of the best jury lawyers at the Robeson bar, and was deservedly popular with all who knew him. He was a sincere and humble Christian, and was su- Perintendent of the Sunday school of the Presbyterian church. He died in December, 1904, survived by four children: J. Douglas Norment (since deceased); Mrs. ANT Parmele, Misses Laura and Emma Norment. Miss Laura has been for many years the mainstay of the local chapter U. D. C., and Miss Emma is loved by hundreds Of the youth of Lumberton who revere her for her many Years of sacrificial labor as a member of the staff of our Staded schools. Captain Norment was a brother of Thomas A. Nor- Ment, Sr., and of Owen Clinton Norment, both outstand- ing Lumbertonians of a former day; and of Mrs. W. W. McDiarmid (wife of a former publisher of The ROBE- SONIAN) ; Mrs. Anne Eliza Higley; and Mrs. Cornelia Bryan. The writer hopes to publish, at a later date, a roster of Captain Norment’s company in the Confederate sery- ice, which embraced the only two Confederate veterans Now living in Robeson county—Rev. F. A. Prevatt (oldest living Robesonian) and William Barnes of Lumberton, who can even yet call the roll of his company. The com- Pany also included Owen C. Norment (brother of Cap- tain Norment) ; Needham J. Thompson (father of Mrs. L. T. Townsend of Lumberton), who was severely Wounded in action; Bunyan Stansel of Allenton, who lost a leg in the service (father of B. H. and Jesse C. Stansel of Allenton and John P. Stansel of Maxton) , and numer- Ous other notable Robesonians. I feel that the names and [231] $< ae deeds of these heroes of the South will be of interest to our readers. The writer also hopes to publish a sketch of the ancient cemetery near Lumberton at what in revolutionary times was known as Morrisey’s mill, but during recent years has been known as McMillan’s mill—near McMillan’s beach. Here were buried John Willis, father of Lumberton; Penelope Clinton, wife of Col. Richard Clinton; many of the early Rowlands, Blounts, and other prominent Lum- berton people of more than a hundred years ago. [ 232 ] ai a7 DR. GEORGE M. PATE WHEN Governor Hoey holds a Council of State, he calls in the Secretary of State, the Treasurer, the Attorney Gen- eral and others; and when we, down in the sTATE OF ROBESON hold our Council of State, we call in a few big business men, such as Kenneth M. Biggs of Lumberton, Robert L. McLeod of Maxton, and Dr. George M. Pate of Rowland, for he is physician not only to the individual who may be ill, but he specializes in diagnosing and treating the ills and ailments of sick businesses, droopy Corporations, and he is an expert in handling the maladies that afflict our body politic. Therefore my title—Doctor of Robeson. Born in Scotland County in 1878; father, Captain of Home Guards in the Confederate service; mother, an Adams of the same family from which came the late Justice William J. Adams of Carthage. Prepared for col- lege at the Wyche school near Gibson, where one of the teachers was Miss Eliza Johnson, sister of the famous Johnson Brothers—Livingston, Archibald and Norman D., of Springhill. One of his schoolmates was Methodist Bishop Peele; another was Senator Gibson of South Carolina. Attended the University ‘96 and ’97; graduated in medicine at Charleston in 1900; postgraduate work Uni- Versity of Maryland 1901 and at Polyclinic at New York 1906. Practiced at Gibson until 1904; then at Rowland until 1916, when he began giving his full time to doctor- ing sick businesses. He is one of the few remaining reminders of the most [ 238 ] = SS ee ee a ae valuable asset any community ever possessed, that true hero in a realm of realism—the country doctor. Here was the type which served a community through summer's heat and winter's cold, far into the night; who rode long hours over wretched roads in miserable weather; who got little compensation for his service. It was he who brought you into the world, saw you married, was your friend, counselor and guide all through life; who sat by your bed for hours when you were ill; who was chief mourner when you died. All he received was the gratitude and affection of the community in which he lived—that much was his. With him there has passed from the countryside of Carolina a figure whose place can never be taken in the life of our people. Doctor Pate represents all that is best in the country doctor of an age that is past. When I came to Robeson in 1903 nothing could be done in the southern part of the county without the consent of the late Allen Edens. If a man wanted to buy a farm, build a house, purchase a team of mules, nothing was done about it until the proposition had been laid before Mr. Edens and approved by him. Now that he has passed away, Dr. Pate has succeeded to all his titles and honors, and it has been long since any southern Robeson- ian engaged in any enterprise of moment without first conferring with our Doctor, for he is the man whom Robeson regards as her ablest man of business. He heads nearly all the south Robeson corporations, and has large interests elsewhere, and he is kept on the road nearly as much attending to sick business as he used to be in at- tendance on sick individuals. I may as well confess the worst in the beginning. He is a doodler, a confirmed doodler. This, I think, is the correct technical term for one who figures on the backs of old envelopes, makes drawings on pieces of paper, [ 234 ] marks up the tablecloths. The Doctor has been at this business for years; in fact he was one of its pioneers, just as he was in the cotton co-ops. He is full of figures, and all sorts of statistics, so I will get that way myself, and beg to state that if all the old envelopes used by the Doctor in doodling were placed end to end, they would extend from New York to Moscow; while if all the pencils similarly consumed by him were placed end to end, they would reach from the earth to the cool caverns of the moon. ‘ You go to church with the Doctor and after service ask his opinion of the sermon. He’s part Scotch, and so of course he is cautious and canny. He waits until he gets home, then he will get to doodling over it and he will finally tell you whether it was worth $2,108.05 or $2 1.05 or maybe only $.05—but he will put a value on it, as a going concern, in terms of mathematics. Or maybe he has been thinking about his favorite cotton co-op, which Is so close to his heart, and he will appraise the sermon in its terms—good middling, strict middling, low mid- dling or maybe just tinges and stains. : Director’s meeting. The corporation is sometimes able to be up and about the house, usually on crutches, but is often ailing with chronic exhaustion of the treasury, con- striction of the credit region, or distention in the expense area. As a physician, this is where our Doctor comes in handy. He gets him out an old envelope, has the corpora- tion stick out its tongue, feels its pulse, puts a thermom- eter in its mouth. Asks two or three questions. Then he begins doodling. Then comes the diagnosis of the malady. And there are numbers of business men who claim that our Doctor cannot only give you a correct diagnosis of the ailment, but can also prescribe a specific that will work a cure on the patient. [ 235 ] He's a banker too, president of the Bank of Rowland, and in that capacity he is frequently called in to officiate at inquests, post mortems and the like. He is an expert at dissecting (probably a hang over from his old medical days) , and when the inquest is over, the Doctor just ups and tells what the trouble was, why the patient died, and when the death took place. But at times he can effect a seeming miracle and put a dead business back on its feet again. I submit this is quite a feat in these days of _ the wage and hour law, and other complications of govern- mental control of business. When there is anything ailing in Robeson, the standard technique is to send for Dr. Pate first, and talk about it afterwards. The result is that his time is heavily mort- gaged, for if an enterprise is to be launched, a business to be started, something gotten under way for the benefit of the community, somehow support is given to it and prestige lent to the movement if it is known that Dr. Pate is one of the sponsors. For that is what he principally is, A COMMUNITY BUILDER. He gives generously of his time, talent and money to the public weal. He has long been one of the largest farmers in this section of the State. Raised in the country, acquainted ' with every practical problem that confronts agriculture, realizing that the hope of the farmer is the hope of the State, Dr. Pate was one of the far-seeing pioneers who saw the possibilities of the farmer in the field of co-operative marketing. Coming from a heavily cotton section, he naturally was most interested in cotton, and he helped organize and has been a director in and president of the North Carolina Cotton Co-operative Association for seventeen years. ‘They must like him. There was also a tobacco co-operative which, after a hectic career, was placed in a Federal court receivership, and there was much [ 236 ] Squabbling, many loud noises, and much commotion over €ven the corpse (to keep in character, as writing of a Physician) of this co-operative. But the Cotton Co-op, thanks to Dr. Pate and his associates, has had a calm career and has rendered a service of simply inestimable service to the cotton farmers of Carolina. In my judgment the Cotton Co-op has saved the farmers of the State on grading alone, more than its total cost. Its services in enabling the farmer to hold for better prices, to market his crop in orderly fashion, in securing reasonable advances thereon, are services which represent pure velvet to the farmer. There is but one place where the Doctor does not have to doodle. When he goes to Raleigh to attend say a meet- ing of the Co-ops, when night falls he may drop in at a Vaudeville show. After the revue goes off the stage, he can tell you, without doodling, just what he thinks of it. He has the figures all memorized. [ 237] GILBERT B. PATTERSON “His life was gentle, and the elements So mixed in him that Nature might stand up And say to all the world: ‘This was a manl’” Shakespeare: Julius Caesar. MAXTON was the home of two distinguished Robeson- ians, Rev. Dr. H. G. Hill, and Gilbert Brown Patterson —closely associated in life and not far apart in death. Gilbert Patterson was my friend. I knew the man and loved him. To me he was not “Mister” Patterson, but Patterson. I shall so speak of him in this sketch. In a recent reminiscent article, I said that when I en- tered the portals of our court house here in Lumberton, I could feel again the mighty power of Gilbert Patterson —once aroused. He was like a cold automobile on a snowy morning—hard to start, but very powerful when once in motion. I think this statement fairly reflects his chief characteristic. The Patterson family was essentially Scotch, and Pat- terson was a Patterson on both sides of the house. His paternal grandfather was Charles Patterson, who married Effie Brown. His maternal grandparents were Daniel Pat- terson and Nancy Leach. His father was Gilbert Patter- son, his mother Margaret Patterson. He was born in what is now Scotland County, May 29th, 1863. His brothers were Daniel A. Patterson, Archie Patterson, Charles Pat- terson. His sisters were Effie, who married W. D. Baldwin of Clarkton, and Nancy who married M. M. McKinnon, of Laurinburg. His brothers and sisters have all passed away [ 238 ] €xcept his brother, the venerable Daniel A. yy who still occupies the ancestral acres near Maxton. number of nieces and nephews still live, and cousins by the score. He Sioa school at Maxton and also at Laurinburg, where he sat under that famous preceptor, W. G. Quacken- bush. From there he matriculated at the University, where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, and wher aduated in the class of 1886. : His Bee employment was as teacher in the public schools of Elizabeth City, and to the end of his life he was interested in education, serving for twenty two years as a member of the Maxton School Board, and being a useful member of the Board of Trustees of Flora MacDonald Collége. HE his life’s work was law and politics, and he was admitted to the Bar in 1890. He entered upon the prac- tice of his profession at Maxton, and was at one time part- ner of the beloved William Black, who abandoned the law for the Presbyterian ministry. Thereafter he was asso- Ciated with another brilliant son of Robeson, ie Gilchrist McCormick. But for the most part he practiced by himself, in the little office which has become a shrine for many Robe eople. He hada anil gift and taste for politics, and was one of the most popular men Robeson ever produced. If Pat terson had an enemy, such enemy never made his enmity known. This disposition soon drew him into the eho arena, and he was a leading figure in the famous Red Shirt” campaign of 1898 which changed the political com- plexion of the State. Upon the restoration of Democratic tule, Patterson was elected to the General Assembly in 1899 and again in 1901, rendering notable service during that hectic period. At that time he joined with Boe Edward K. Proctor, Jr., and other friends of temperance in securing the enactment of legislation which banned intoxicants from Robeson County. His popularity and the record he had made in the Gen- eral Assembly, caused his election to Congress in 1903 and again in 1905. In Congress he rendered faithful and effi- cient service to his District, and thenceforth he was a con- siderable figure in State politics. There was scarcely any activity in Maxton which did not feel the touch of the Patterson influence, directly or indirectly. He was in affluent circumstances, owned ex- tensive farming and other interests, and was intimately connected with every movement in western Robeson. He served as director of the Bank of Maxton, Carolina Elec- tric Company, and other corporations. He loved the social side of life, and was not only a Master Mason, but a Shriner. He was devoted to the interest of the Presbyterian church, and to. its illustrious Maxton leader, Dr. Hill. He was for fifteen years a Ruling Elder of his church, and for many years superintendent of its Sunday school. He was a teacher of its men’s Bible class. Nor was the cause of the orphans at Barium Springs overlooked by him. Patterson was one of the most forceful, fascinating and eloquent speakers I have ever listened to. He was in con- stant demand as a speaker at county conventions, political rallies and upon the hustings, and I can even now hear the people as their cheers for Patterson rent the air! No man ever lived in Robeson who was so loved and trusted by our Indian people as was Patterson. No public gathering, no picnic, no general assemblage, was ever had among them without the presence of Patterson and a speech from him. And he held for them the same affec- [ 240 ] at © & 2.) tionate regard they had for him, and he championed their cause on more than one occasion. : Patterson was essentially a social man. Imposing of figure, handsome of form, charming in paahiee he eagerly sought after upon all social occasions. He wa man of wide reading, diversified learning, and was per haps at his best sitting in front of his office ee questions of law, politics or government, to Se ee that always gathered round. And when court week came, but the court was in recess, and Patterson came upon the court house lawn, those there dropped what they had been doing and gathered round to hear Patterson talk. Ladies, too, delighted in his company, and no socia function for miles around was complete without his at- tendance, and the charm of his manner, the brilliance of his conversation, the delightfulness of his courtesy, ever made a deep impression upon those privileged to be with hi h occasions. MS aa Patterson did not love the strife and oe tentions of the court room. His ways were those of pleas- antness, and all his paths were peace. So loath a ee engage in a struggle with his friends and comrades i a he would often ask the continuance of his cases. But when continuances could no longer be had, when he was forced to fight, when he stood at bay, he could and did fight— like a tiger! Woe to the lawyer who opposed Patterson when he had his fighting clothes on. I have known some able lawyers in my time, including those Robesonians Col. N. A. McLean and Stephen McIntyre, but neither could surpass Gilbert Patterson before either court or jury —once Pat had made up his mind to fight! : Those who remember—and they are many—the magni- ficent fight he made to divide Robeson County, can never forget the power and magnetism of the man, or the ae [ 241 lantry with which he led his cause—a cause in which there was pitted against him practically the entire Bar of the county. And well do I remember how our Lumberton Bar shook with fear lest the Maxton giant succeed in his task. He lost, but he bore no malice. He was a man who could lose and still cherish no rancor in his heart. Unlike most lawyers, success did not elate him, defeat did not depress him. His temper bore that serenity which only those of wisdom can attain. He always controlled his emotions; he was ever the master of his fate. He could lose and assert no alibi—a height I have never been able to reach. I have seen him with many men, under varied and trying circumstances. But I never heard him speak ill of any man. He died in the very prime of life, January 21st, 1922, universally mourned through all Robeson. His funeral services were conducted by his beloved pastor, Dr. Hill— destined soon to follow him in death. They were not divided in life, nor were they long divided in death. In 1907 Patterson was married to Mrs. Mattie McNair Evans, daughter of John F. McNair of Laurinburg. Mrs. Patterson died July 3, 1912,—a crushing blow from which her husband never recovered. The only child of this marriage, Mary McNair Patterson, married James E. Johnson of Lumberton, where they now reside. E. Hervey Evans of Laurinburg is a step-son. : It remains to acknowledge my indebtedness for certain of the factual data above given, to that stalwart veteran of western Robeson, Howard C. McNair of Maxton, who loved Patterson even as Jonathan loved David. A great hearted Southern gentleman: Gilbert Brown Patterson. [ 242 ] Pitti EDWARD KNOX PROCTOR AS A PROHIBITIONIST TO CORRECTLY appraise the pioneer work of Edward Knox Proctor as a prohibitionist, his work must be Viewed in the light of conditions as they existed at that time, rather than in the light of conditions which now exist. Today the advocate of prohibition wears a badge of honor, but when Mr. Proctor began his work in the early eighties of the last century, he stood almost alone. At that time the liquor interests were firmly entrenched, controlling and dominating both political parties, and having large financial resources at their command. Mr. Proctor had neither political influence nor financial re- sources. His only assets were a pure heart and a brave soul—but he used these resources to the utmost. Mr. Proctor, being a devout and humble Christian, nat- urally felt at home when in association with the churches, and it was to the churches that he turned for support for the cause in which he believed with all his soul. But the churches were by no means enthusiastic over the cause Which he espoused. Many ministers of the Gospel were advocates of the licensed barroom, as they felt that illicit distilling could not be put down, and that it was perhaps better to have the licensed bar than to have illicit distil- leries operating in our swamps. And to many stewards, elders, deacons, and members of the church, the very name of prohibition was anathema. Church records throughout North Carolina will disclose the lamentable fact that in those early days, many members of the oa We 2 a “turned out” because they had joined a prohibition so- ciety! Yet here and there could be found a brave and cour- ageous soul who considered the sale of liquor an unmiti- gated evil and who had the courage to stand by his con- Victions. Such a man was Judge James C. MacRae of Fayetteville, who entertained an ambition to become goy- ernor of North Carolina. He was invited to preside over a state convention of the prohibitionists to be held in Raleigh, but the wets warned him that if he accepted the invitation it would mean his political death. Well, said the Judge, I will die fighting the greatest evil of our day. He presided over the convention, and was finally honored by the people of North Carolina who elected him to a seat upon our Supreme court bench. Here in our own county of Robeson there were a few courageous souls. In the early eighties, Richard Rhodes Barnes of Barnesville, Henry F. Pittman of Fairmont, and Owen C. Norment of Lumberton, were members of the board of county commissioners. These men were known to many of my hearers, and no better men ever lived in our county. At that time the law made it obliga- tory upon the commissioners to issue license to sell liquor to all applicants of good character. Messrs, Barnes and Pittman felt that they were bound by this law, and they therefore reluctantly voted to issue the licenses, altho they were personally dry. Mr. Norment, however, took the po- sition that liquor was an unmitigated evil and should be stamped out, and he therefore consistently voted ‘‘No” upon all applications for liquor license. No doubt he felt that he was bound by a “higher law’—his conscience— and so long as he was on the board, he always voted “No” upon applications for liquor license. Soon after his admission to the bar, Edward Knox Proc- [ 244 ] Feiizs tor joined the thin ranks of the heroes of faith who were leading the then forlorn hope of prohibition. When he began his work, he was told that it meant the sacrifice of much of his law practice, his financial and political future, and would even place in jeopardy his very life. Tt was pointed out to him that the liquor interests con- trolled the political machinery and much of the industrial and financial life of the section. It was their privilege ‘0 dispense favors to young lawyers. But Mr. Proctor re- fused to bow the knee to Baal, nor could he be persuaded to join the forces of Mammon. Like Sir Galahad, his Strength was as the strength of ten, because his heart was pure! He soon saw that before any lasting good could be ac- complished it was necessary to conduct a campaign to show the people that liquor was prejudicial to the social, €conomic, political and religious life. He correctly judged that even if it were then possible to secure legislation to restrain the sale of intoxicants, that such legislation would not prevent such sale, because no law can be en- forced that is not supported by the large body of public Opinion. It has been demonstrated time and again that Public opinion governs in the enforcement or non-en- forcement of any statute. He therefore inaugurated a campaign of popular edu- Cation to show the people the evils of intemperance and the blessings which would accrue from prohibition. This Was his great contribution to the cause of temperance— 4 contribution which will live so long as men love right- fousness. Week after week, Sunday after Sunday, through all sorts of weather, and over all kinds of roads, at his Own expense, Mr. Proctor went from church to church, taking his cause to the people. Sunday after Sunday he Would speak, dwelling upon the evils of intemperance and [ 245 ] ii the blessings of temperance, and inviting his hearers to embrace his cause. Ceaseless and tireless were his efforts, and finally they bore fruit. In 1890 a board of commissioners was elected who were personally dry, but who were confronted by a law making it mandatory upon them to issue liquor licenses if the applicants were of good character. The commis- sioners elected Judge Thomas A. McNeill of Lumberton as county attorney. What went on behind the scenes we cannot now know, but there can be no doubt but that Mr. Proctor’s advice was sought as to whether this law had to be obeyed to its letter. The matter came to a head when certain persons from Maxton applied for license, presenting ample evidence of good character. Judge Mc- Neill advised the commissioners that the bare fact that a person applied for a liquor license was IN ITSELF evi- dence of bad character which would justify the commis- sioners in refusing to issue him a license. The commission- ers accordingly denied all applications for licenses. The applicants sued for a writ of mandamus to compel the commissioners to issue their licenses, and the case came on for trial at September term, 1890, of Robeson Superior court. The plaintiffs were represented by Thomas H. Sutton of Fayetteville, and the commissioners by Judge Thomas A. McNeill and William Black of Maxton, who afterward abandoned the law and became a distinguished Presbyterian minister. The case was appealed to the Su- preme court, where Justice Walter Clark, ever an advocate of social reform, wrote the opinion of the court to the effect that the discretion vested in the commissioners was a judicial discretion which would not be interfered with by the courts. This was a case of first impression in North Carolina, and established the legal precedent that county boards of commissioners could control the liquor traffic if [ 246 ] they were disposed to do so! This case is reported in 107 N. C. page 335. : Nevertheless, the liquor interests did not yield without a long struggle, both in political campaigns, in the legis- ; lature, and in the courts. Feeling was engendered to such an extent that on two occasions Mr. Proctor’s house in Lumberton was fired into, and on one of these occasions the windowsill of the room in which he and his wife were Sitting was peppered with shot. But even this did not deter him and he continued to fight his good fight against the embattled forces of evil. The campaign of public education instituted and Carried on by Mr. Proctor began to bear fruit in an aroused Public conscience, and legislation restraining the manu- facture and sale of intoxicants began to be enacted. By chapter 475, public laws of 1893, it was made unlawful to Manufacture or sell liquor in Robeson county, but this act had the weakness that it permitted wine and cider to be manufactured from fruit grown by the manufacturer Upon his own premises. Violation of the act was punish- able by two years imprisonment or a fine of $500. In 1895, by chapter 381, it was made lawful to sell the juice of apples or grapes WITHOUT LICENSE in Robeson County. This let down the bars again and the liquor peo- ple were jubilant. But their joy was short-lived, for chap- ter 228, public laws of 189g, repealed the act of 1895 and Testored the act of 1893 as the law of the land. In 1901, When Stephen McIntyre was in the senate, and Gilbert B. Patterson of Maxton, and J. Shep Oliver of Marietta Were in the house, chapter 476 was enacted which pro- hibited the sale of intoxicants within three miles of certain churches. tet The hand of Mr. Proctor can be traced in all this legis- lation, and no man can estimate the good he accomplished [ 247 ] in Robeson county by the magnificent fight he waged for prohibition. And the results he obtained in Robeson county had a far-reaching reflex influence throughout the state of North Carolina. Robeson was the pioneer prohibi- tion county in eastern Carolina, and Edward Knox Proc- tor was the pioneer prohibition leader in Robeson. It has been truly said that many an institution is but the lengthening shadow of some great man. In Robeson county today, prohibition is but the lengthened shadow of a great Robesonian—Edward Knox Proctor. [ 248 ] COLONEL ALFRED ROWLAND COL. RICHARD CLINTON, revolutionary hero and Patriot, came of distinguished ancestry, being a nephew of that famous American DeWitt Clinton, governor of New York, builder of the Erie canal. ; The service of Colonel Clinton to the revolutionary Cause was so notable, that when Sampson county was ¢s- tablished in 1784, its county seat was named Clinton in honor of Colonel Richard Clinton. After the revolution Colonel Clinton continued his public career, and was Senator from Sampson county for ten consecutive terms. The sword carried by Colonel Clinton during the revo- lution, and buttons from his uniform, are in the possession of the elect Lumberton ladies hereinafter referred to. This distinguished American soldier was the lineal ancestor of the subject of this sketch. Col. Richard Clinton married a daughter of James Kenan, also a distinguished revolutionary statesman, 10 Whose honor Kenansville, county seat of Duplin county, is hamed. During the last years of her life Penelope Clinton, Widow of Col. Richard Clinton, made her home near Lumberton with her daughter, Mrs. Thomas Morrisey. Her will, dated August 28th, 1814, is recorded in Robeson County in Book of Wills No. 1, page 138. Mary Eliza Clinton, daughter of Col. Richard Clinton, Married General Alfred Rowland, of Robeson county. The details of his life have been lost in the misty haze of an unchartered past. But it is known that he was a planter Upon a large scale, and that he was a general of North Carolina militia. We also know that he served a re 249 secutive terms as senator from Robeson county, beginning in 1811 and extending through 1814. General Rowland’s son—John A. Rowland—was a large figure in the life of ante-bellum Robeson. He was senator in 1848. He served as Clerk of the county court for seven years. He was register of deeds for one year. I know of no other person who has served as sheriff, clerk and reg- ister of deeds. He died in 1872 when only fifty-seven. One of his daughters married the beloved Dr. John D. Mc- Millan, father of Mrs. G. Ed. Rancke of Lumberton. An- other daughter married Christopher von Glahn, and their daughter became the wife of our esteemed townsman, John H. Wishart. Alfred Rowland, subject of this sketch, was the son of John A. Rowland. When but a youth of sixteen he volun- teered in the Confederate service as a private in the 18th North Carolina regiment, in the same company with his near kinsman, Captain William S. Norment. He served during the entire war, and his ability and fidelity to the Confederate cause was such that he rose from private to lieutenant colonel. He was captured during the heavy fighting around Spottsylvania Court House, Virginia, and was carried to Fort Delaware, where he was confined to the end of the war. He never fully recovered from the effects of his imprisonment. Returning to Lumberton, he was elected as register of deeds in 1867, but also entered upon the study of law in the office of Giles Leitch, prominent Lumberton lawyer, whose office was a small stone building at the corner o! Fourth and Chestnut streets. In due course Colonel Row- Jand was admitted to the bar and began the practice in association with Mr. Leitch, and this continued until the death of Mr. Leitch. Colonel Rowland then formed a partnership with the [ 250 ] titti m =e = sas SEES 2 a mn ee late Col. Neill Archie McLean—Mr. C. B. Townsend being also a member of this firm for a short period be- fore his election as clerk of the Superior court. This firm Was one of the strongest legal firms in North Carolina and appeared in practically all important litigation in the Cape Fear section. : But Colonel Rowland was not allowed to pursue his Private law practice uninterrupted. He was soon called again to the public service and represented Robeson sev- eral terms in the house of representatives at Raleigh. There he had a part in shaping much of the important legislation during the troubled period following recon- struction. Thereafter he was a presidential elector during the first Cleveland campaign, and thereafter he was elected to Congress and served his district for two terms with conspicuous ability. After his retirement from Congress, he resumed the Practice of law at Lumberton in partnership with Col. McLean, and continued in the successful practice until his premature death in 1898—hastened, it is thought, by the exposure and hardship suffered by him during his imprisonment during the war. The town of Rowland was, in his lifetime, named in his honor and perpetuates the Memory of a gallant Robesonian. Colonel Rowland was a devoted member of the Presby- terian church, in which he was a ruling elder, and long - Superintendent of its Sunday school. He served as mod- erator of his presbytery. When the general assembly of that church met at St. Louis in 1887, Colonel Rowland had the honor of being the ONLY layman to be a mem- ber of that distinguished body. Colonel Rowland’s only son—John A. Rowland— Would have made an outstanding success as a lawyer, had Not a wasting disease prevented him from mae! ae 251 SS a ticing his profession. But he served with ability as mayor of Lumberton, and was the first judge of our recorder’s court. Those elect ladies, Misses Penelope (Pennie) and Wini- fred (Bunch) Rowland, daughters of Colonel Rowland, have written their names large upon the hearts of the youth of Lumberton for the past forty years. Prior to the establishment of our graded schools, these ladies con- ducted their own private school, but when our graded schools were established, they were naturally elected as teachers therein, and have since so continued with a record of efficient and faithful service rarely equalled in North Carolina. When another school building is erected in Lumberton it should by all means be called the ROWLAND BUILDING, as an expression of the esteem in which these ladies are held by a grateful public. That gracious lady, Mrs. May Rowland Shaw, youngest daughter of Colonel Rowland, married Duncan Preston Shaw, native of Lumber Bridge, lawyer of parts. He served Robeson as senator in 1904, and his death at an early age cut short a career of great promise. His father, the late Angus L. Shaw, also served as senator and as chairman of the board of county commissioners. [ 252 ] aT aes a tema a RICHARD TOWNSEND: PATRIARCH Princes and Lords may flourish or may on A breath can make them as a breath hath made, But a bold peasantry, their country’s pride, When once destroyed can never be supplied. Goldsmith: Deserted Village. COLONEL JAMES MacQUEEN, pioneer Robesonian, had twelve children, including preachers and lawyers. These children had children, and they in turn yet others, until to-day half of Robeson claims descent from ae RICHARD TOWNSEND had eleven children, including lawyers and preachers, gave NINE of them a college ae cation, and they had children and their children in tu yet others, until to-day half of Robeson traces their eae try through him. And he had two brothers, Dene on whom our present David of Rowland descends; and Jac son from whom descended Judge N. A. Townsend, ae Jackson Townsend, outstanding business executive O Hoosac Falls, New York. Most really big men spring from the soil and eae. a the top by the sheer power of their own might. ene fe Franklin ran away from tyranny and reached Phiadelp penniless and friendless; Abraham Lincoln went from : log cabin to the presidency; where he saved a ee Andrew Johnson could not even read until after : is grown, when his wife taught him; John D. Rockefe a began life as a clerk at $25.00 per month, but ae e Save away three quarters of a billion; Thomas A. ] aa was a news butcher on a New York Central train an while conducting some chemical experiment damaged one [ 253 ] of the car seats, for which mischance the conductor boxed his ears so soundly that he burst one of his ear drums. This accounts for the deafness of the great inventor. RICHARD TOWNSEND sprang from the soil as did these men, and accomplished for OTHERS what these men did for THEMSELVES. In May they propose to unveil here in Lumberton a memorial to the Robesonians who died on the field of battle or in the service during the Great War, and it is altogether fitting that this should be done. But to-day I would unveil the portrait of an unsung hero of peace, who served his country just as heroically on the fields of service as did our soldiers who fought on the fields of Flanders. He himself would have fought on the battlefield, but he was too old to serve the regular army of the South. He did serve the Confederacy at Fort Caswell, and it was from its casements that he heard the crash of the artillery an- nouncing the surrender of Fort Fisher, which spelled the downfall of the Southern cause. He was born in that section of Robeson known as “Hunter’s Lodge” in 1824. He came of hardy, solid and substantial ancestry, but he inherited no substance; he had to force his own way; to fight his own battles. His educa- tion was of the sketchiest sort, for there were but few schools in those early days, and moreover he was one called to the hardships of toil. His education was largely pro- vided by himself—for he was selfmade from cover to cover. He settled in the neighborhood of McDonald’s where by his own ceaseless effort he acquired broad acres adjoin- ing those possessed by his brothers David and Jackson, and before he died the Townsends owned a small empire in what was then Thompson’s township. Here he toiled; here he sat as a steward at old Asbury church on the Sab- bath; here he reared his large family; here he gave himself [ 254 ] riz ' a = e he rests under the Over to the sacrifice of service; her He shade of the trees in the quiet chuchyard hard by church of his faith at Asbury. : By his own efforts—quite unaided and alone—and prior i IL- to the Civil War, he reared a family of eer aN DREN, gave NINE of them a COLLEGE ED - pee and left EACH of them an estate worth ee ae $50,000.00 when he died. He would have given t : fo) oe two children a college education had it not PSs Z ve bummers of Sherman. Listen to the roll ca children: ee 1. CLAUDE B. TOWNSEND: Lawyer. For a ee Clerk of the Superior Court of Robeson. Cee living graduate of Trinity College (Duke ee ee 2. FRANK M. TOWNSEND: Planter, of Ro county. ; 3. JUNIUS A. TOWNSEND: Business Hot Springs, Ark. 4. REV. WILLIAM H. TOWN ist ministry. executive of SEND, of the Method- 5. REV. RICHARD W. TOWNSEND, of the Method. © ist ministry. 6. LEROY S. TOWNSEND: county. 4. JAMES L. TOWNSEND: Planter a Manquin, Va. 8. Seon T. TOWNSEND: Planter and man of affairs of Lumberton. 9. SUSAN A., wife of Donald McLeod, of Robeson county. 10. SARAH ELIZABETH, Archie McLean of Lumberton. 11. AGNES M., wife of A. T-. McCallum, business man of Red Springs. Planter of Robeson nd capitalist, first wife of Col. Neill outstanding [ 255 | Any man who, by his own efforts, unaided and alone, can raise a family like that, give them a college educa- tion, equip them for life, and provide for each a hand- some competence after his death, deserves a niche in any hall of fame, for he indeed left behind him a monument more lasting than brass and enduring than marble. We do not have to go a thousand miles to find a hero of whom to sing, for such a one can be found in the annals of Robeson, in such a man as RICHARD TOWNSEND. He attained his accomplishments so quietly, he lived so sacrificially, that it attracted no attention save from ONE who wrote it down in the Book of Life. I think the word PATRIARCH best describes him, even as it described Abraham who dwelt in Ur of the Chaldees. Mr. Townsend owned his own empire, ruled his own household, made his own laws, sat at the head of his own table, and raised on his broad acres everything that was needful for those who looked to him as the ruler of his State. The only things he had to buy were things he could not produce for himself—such as quinine or sugar. With these exceptions he lived at home, and Gover- nor Max Gardner would have found in him a text for his “live at home” campaign. He lived to the ripeness of old age and left a heritage which should be both an example and an inspiration to our people of modern Robeson: a long life of usefulness; an unblemished name; a large family and a host of de- scendants; a large estate for time and a yet larger one for eternity—and not merely his children, but all who knew him rise up to call him blessed. Thomas Gray in the quietude of the churchyard at Stoke Pogis, where the “rude forefathers of the hamlet sleep,” saw in their narrow graves remarkable men—men whom the “rod of empire might have swayed”; men who [ 256 ] mn ivi ” In the 2 stasy the living lyre.” 1» ese a han who had the ability to Il as the section .where he his State and his God more Governors have done. For ait.’ I know of no d a larger life of WNSEND of might have churchyard at Asbury sleeps govern a State quite as we reigned, and who served both effectually than many of our they also serve “who only stand and w man—have read of no man—who live sacrificial service than did RICHARD TO Robeson. : a5 i é : down his life, When in the fullness of his years he ae ae patriarchs he had met and become acquainted wit of the past. And like the patriarch Abraham, he believed i i mess. in God and it was accounted unto him for righteous [ 257 ] REV. CHARLES G. VARDELL, D.D. “T have fought a good fight.” Paul: 2 Timothy: 4-7. NORTH CAROLINA has produced some great educa- tors: Archibald DeBow Murphy and Calvin H. Wiley of the public schools; Henry Louis Smith, of Davidson; Braxton Craven, of Trinity; W. P. Few, of Duke; William Louis Poteat, of Wake Forest; Edwin A. Alderman, of N. C. University; Charles D. McIver, of the State Normal; James Y. Joyner, superintendent of Public Instruction. And she has produced some great statesmen, who had a burning zeal for the cause of education, such as her great Governor Charles Brantley Aycock. She has pro- duced world-famous business men, great philanthropists, who saw in the cause of education the salvation of North Carolina, such as James B. Duke. In GHARLES GRAVES VARDELL, North Carolina possesses an educator in all respects worthy to rank be- side his peers above referred to, a man possessing states- manship of a high order, and a man who has majored in philanthropy all his life. The valley of Lumber river has long been noted for two outstanding characteristics: the Scotch of its citizen- ship, the culture of its people. From this valley have come men who have loomed large in the life of our State —preachers, lawyers, editors, doctors, poets. In this valley is located Riverton, with more college graduates per square mile than any country community in North Caro- lina. In this valley was also located Floral College, oldest [ 258 ] went forth a cultured womanhood to grac orth Carolina authorized to confer tution was a landmark of the Cape d from her walls e the homes of ar and the battle’s con- all took their fell into ruin e hearts of the degrees. This great insti Fear section, dating back to 1840, an the Carolinas. But the havoc of w : fusion, the woes of the era of reconstruction, toll of her, and this once great institution and decay. But its memory still lived in th ae Scotch, and out of this memory e born a yet gr institution—Flora Macdonald College. It has been truly said that many an rupee cS ee the lengthened shadow of some individual, an x tes western shadows fall athwart the campus of F a He donald, they trace the figure of its great foun ae when her girls gather in the college halls for ay ae of praise or thanksgiving, the first name upon ae is the name of him who built their college—Dr. G. Vardell. He was born at Charleston, S. C., February He Rie just a month or two before the roar of the ae = wee teries firing on Fort Sumter issued in the oe ce ne was the second son of Rev. W. G. Vardell, a ee cestry, and Jane Dickson Bell, his wife, w fe ee was Scotch; and both parents were of the third ge from their European home. il His childhood was spent at Charleston or on the family plantation near by. His early education es eer a governess, an army Officer, an aunt furnis ts ae ments until he reached fifteen. Then the nee eee ae porting a widowed mother and four ee a oe brought his education to a close for OG SS es as eight years. During this time he worked for See on the family plantation and for two years fa tea farm and terpreter between the Scotch manager Of a oe Se ee the dialectic Charlestonian negroes, from which latter place he went to St. Pauls, Minn., as employee in a tea factory. At the age of twenty-three he answered God’s call to the ministry, and on the borrowed money entered the preparatory department of Oberlin college in Ohio. In 1885 he returned South and entered Davidson college, from which he was graduated in 1888. He then entered Princeton Theological ‘seminary, from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Divinity in 1891. In 1903 Da- vidson college conferred upon him a Doctorate of Di- vinity. In the fall of 1891 he accepted the pastorate of the Presbyterian church at New Bern, but after a service there of five years resigned to accept a unanimous call to become the pastor and the shepherd of a substantial part of the young womanhood of the Carolinas. The Scotch had long bemoaned the loss of Floral col- lege, and they determined to build another institution worthy of its traditions. By the spring of 1896 they had reached certain definite conclusions: they had determined to build their college at Red Springs in the very heart of the Scotch country; and they had determined that Charles G. Vardell should be its head. Moreover, Dr. J. Luther McMillan of Red Springs had donated a beautiful site for the college, and a fund of $4,000.00 (part cash, part in supplies) had been collected as a nucleus. Dr. Vardell was invited to become the president of a college con- sisting of a partly-built wooden building with twenty students. The invitation was not merely an invitation—it was a challenge. And as such he accepted it. He became president of the infant college, and at Red Springs his life’s work has been done. Let us now, with one accord, pay brief tribute to the memory of some of those who wrought with Dr. Vardell, [ 260 ] een and without whose assistance his task eee fully accomplished: Rev. S. M. ae aoe of the Red Springs church, who labore bee MeNualiags season in behalf of the college; Dr. J- ae hysician and who donated the site, who served as college Bae Se ar as treasurer, ever ready with his means Or i Locke Shaw of St. Pauls, who oes es neal stress; the rescue of the college over a period of ee built Mark Morgan of Scotland county, vee OA PENe greit a building upon its campus; ee at State, who business executive, great governor of a gre as chairman gave liberally of his time and talent, serving Lees of the board of trustees for twenty-five years es A. Mac- chairman of its investing committee; Bee Mrs. LG: donald, distinguished editor of Toronto, SE ie ite Richardson and her sons of Greensboro; @ mes being George W. Watts of Durham, ee parece. Truly the largest financial benefactors of the insti eee rion these and others wrought mightily for ey faa in loving Macdonald, and their names will ever be he remembrance by a grateful people. dell. He had been Poverty was nothing new to Dr. Vardell. cucu as associated with it all his life. But he ee Flora Mac- MILIAR with it when he assayed ae : his struggle donald. His struggle to build it was seis Daaciee to maintain it no less heroic. As is the eh en. chronic, denominational institutions, its poverty pes o the doc- the wolf has ever been at its very door. ee ee died tors knew nothing of transfusions and patie cece for lack of the life-giving blood. But eed can be a donor from whose veins the eas ee ee injected into the veins of the patient. / ee dell seemed that Flora Macdonald must perish, “'- i d the life-giving has always supplied the fresh blood an aes ee as energy which has not only kept the institution alive, but has ever increased her sphere of useful activity. The vacant site now houses an extensive plant; the four- acre campus has expanded to fifty-seven acres; its faculty has grown from six to twenty-eight; its students now number 318, drawn from 13 states and 2 foreign coun- tries; the value of its plant and endowment now reaches $460,000.00. These figures may be but a dry recital to an uninterested reader, but they are not dry to those who know that Dr. Vardell’s very life blood has gone into them. And today, with a great past behind her, and a great future just ahead, the college is doing its greatest work, hampered by but one limitation: lack of suffi- cient capital. And to remedy this a campaign is even now in progress to raise $350,000.00 to pay her debts and to add to her all-too-scant endowment. I can but feel that our people will not allow this campaign to fail, but will make it a success, if only as a testimonial of gratitude to Dr. Vardell and in appreciation for the great work he has done for the college and our state. But what sort and manner of man is this builder of a great institution? I cannot say he has been without his critics. His character is much too positive for that. Boswell once asked Dr. Johnson for his opinion of one of his own books. The doctor replied “Sir, the thing is worthless. No one has criticised it.” But if perchance Dr. Vardell has made a few enemies, they were of the character for which — President Cleveland was loved. His positive character has often clashed with divergent views; he has not always seen eye to eye with a majority; he has ever been able to lead a gallant minority; and he has ever been the shadow of a great rock in a weary land to the forces of righteousness in North Carolina. The Doctor is a man of great personal charm and mag- [ 262 ] ; ceed: ep; his tastes are diversifie i is scholarship is de Tah ee : eas are liberal; his views are Rei Wee dd his interests are broad; his 1 as al ie ae tolerant. No one can long be in his company with Ha 5 a ereat soul. instinctive feeling that he is n the presente ey a Now in his 79th year, he is still facing the , i i hich looking to the East for the dayspring from es Pees oe daily renews the inspiration for his Oa eae that many years yet remain for him to gra presence and to bless us with his life. eee When we see a moving picture, 1t 1s per a ea Square. Yet it came from a reel but oa ae eas from narrow beginnings Dr. Vardell es eee . projected until it covers Carolina from the the sea. : fea. rried Miss In the fall of 1891 Dr. Vardell ee Rae ae Rumple, daughiter of Rev. Dr. Jet UE ee nent Presbyterian minister. To Dr. an . born the following children: (ne G. Jr., aa of the conservatory, Salem college ‘ ett, Winston-Salem, N. C.; Elizabeth, wife of 3 ss pee artist, of Philadelphia, Pa.; Jane Dickson, WHT 0) 07 James J. Murray, pastor First Prey eae ee ington, Va.; Margaret, wife of Alexandes ae Gaston thor, of Charleston, S. C.; Run a uth Carolina; Page of the faculty of Clemson college, SO Pea, Mary Linda, wife of Rev. Ellison ae as: : 5 Lexington, . " TO alee eae Dr. Seed must be pure to courage and inspiration which had one eee his devoted wife. Mrs. Vardell is a sees ee of and was the founder and Builder of the oe creek Music which has been such an outstam ing f great Flora Macdonald life. She is, ee Feu S ae personal charm and magnetism. She tee her husband from small beginnings, she was his hope, en- couragement and stay during the period when the fate of the institution seemed to tremble in the balance, but she was spared to see her husband acclaimed throughout our state for the great builder that he is. The tender sympathy of North Carolina goes out to Dr. and Mrs. Vardell in her long illness and invalidism. A great benefactor of his race: Charles G. Vardell. [ 264] AARON WEINSTEIN RUSSIA under the heel of the Czar. A corrupt court; a degenerate nobility. Political control vested in the army, and in the secret police whose agents spied upon the acts of all men. Men mistrusted even their neighbors, for they might be in the service of the secret police. Summary arrests, prison without trial, banishment to Siberia—these were every day occurrences. No Russian of the under classes had any rights which the army or the police were bound to respect, least of all a Hebrew or a member of another minority sect. For not only was there an auto- cratic government, but there was an official and an auto- cratic church, the high officials whereof exercised much power. Restrictions bore heavily against Jews and other minorities, and here and there were sporadic outbursts of persecution. At Kadan in what was then Russia, but which is now in the Republic of Lithuania, lived a cattle dealer Maxim Weinstein and his wife, Bessie, and to this couple in Octo- ber 1872 was born a son AARON WEINSTEIN. The father lived there until his death in 1901 at the age of 86, and there he is buried. The son had his mother brought to America where he tenderly cared for her until her death in 1926 at the advanced age of ninety-eight. Aaron Weinstein left Russia to escape the hardships of his people and the persecution of his race. Coming to America when a youth of 17, he was totally unacquainted with the ways of Americans, their manners or customs; he spoke no English; he had no money. But he had an abiding faith in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; he [ 265] had courage; he had ability of a high order; he was anxious to work. Landing at New York he soon went to Baltimore and travelled Caton county, Maryland for several months selling merchandise’ from house to house. Then he went to Kentucky, travelling over several counties in that State; then he went to Yazoo county in the Mississippi delta; then to Tennessee; then to West Virginia; thence he came to North Carolina, which thenceforth became his home. Here he first settled at Gibson, in Scotland county; then he moved to Gastonia, but in 1897 he came to Lum- berton where he has since lived. During these eight years Mr. Weinstein travelled on foot, with a pack upon his back, a stranger in a strange land, going from house to house, speaking a broken tongue, trying to sell his wares. And he did. In October 1898 Mr. Weinstein took the most impor- tant step in, his career. He then became an American citizen, and since then the flag with the Stars and Stripes waves over and protects him even as it does you and me. Here in Lumberton he early established a reputation for industry, frugality, and high integrity. Moreover, he was a friendly man; a good neighbor; an excellent citizen. Our people naturally took to him, and he to them. It was not long before he was a popular man, and the reward of his industry began to come to him in a growing business. Almost from his arrival he was the leading figure among his own people; soon he became a leading figure among all the people, gentiles as well as Jews. He numbered his friends by his acquaintances and of these he had thou- sands all over the county. Most people, especially forceful characters such as Mr. Weinstein, have some few enemies, but I have yet to hear any man speak ill of him. Rewards of his industry now began to accumulate and he assumed a position of leadership in the business life [ 266 ] of our town, became an officer or stockholder in the larger business enterprises, while his own mercantile business was operated on an ever larger basis. Nor was he selfish in his prosperity. Many people have been helped by his kindly charity. Many times has this writer been to him for a contribution for this charity or that, or for this person or that, nor did he ever leave his store empty handed. Following the cataclysm of the World War, when his relatives were engulfed in the mael- strom of the old world, he spent literally thousands of dollars in bringing relatives to America and to Lumber- ton, and establishing them in business here. Among those so brought to Lumberton by him was his nephew, our fine townsman M. Schaeman; and many others of his kindred are esteemed citizens in our midst. On July 27, 1896, Mr. Weinstein married Miss Rebecca Katzen at Baltimore. She was a native of Riga in what was then Russia, but her native city is now the capital of the small country of Latvia. To this union was born Six children: Mrs. Hilda Cohen, of Chicago; Mrs. Miriam Israel, wife of Oscar Israel, well known to Lumbertonians; Max Weinstein and Israel Weinstein, Lumberton business men, Robert Weinstein, promising Lumberton lawyer; and Mrs. Mildred Gold, of Rocky Mount. Mrs. Weinstein died on June 22, 1922, secure in the esteem of all who knew her. On July 19, 1925, Mr. Weinstein married Miss Dora Stein, of Bessemer, Ala., who still blesses his home. Now sixty-six years of age, blessed with a comfortable estate and a prosperous business; leader of his own people in this entire section; having the confidence and esteem of our entire citizenship, Mr. Weinstein should look with satisfaction back upon a well spent life. And the best years of his life should be those yet to come. I eer 2 voice the sentiments of all when I say we hope his coming years may be many. If the beast in control of the German people wishes to get rid of the German Hebrews, if he has any on hand who are the sort of man as Aaron Weinstein, let him send them over to us. Lumberton will be glad to get them and will be proud to have them as American citizens. [ 268 ] WILLIAM CLIFTON WISHART IF this sketch does not open the flood gates of memory in the minds of older Robesonians; if it does not bring to mind recollections of the dear days of the past; if it does not recall the services of former sons of Robeson—this writer will be both surprised and disappointed. There is no name more famous in the annals of Robe- son than that of Wishart. I recently ran across an old map of Ashpole Academy, signed by Eli Wishart, county sur- veyor! One of his sons was Col. Wellington Wishart, so highly esteemed by his contemporaries that when Wish- art’s township was established it was named in his honor. He was the father of our townsman John H. Wishart, Frank Wishart, and W. S. (C.) Wishart, who knows more Robeson history than any other living man. Another son of Eli Wishart was Colonel Frank M. Wishart, who rendered his country distinguished service under the Stars and Bars of the Confederacy. When, just after the close of that conflict, the Lowrie gang terrorized Robeson, it was Colonel Frank M. Wishart who took the leadership in the effort to suppress them, and he knew he took his life in his hands when he did so. A dozen men, under his Captaincy, took a solemn oath to rid the county of the ruffians. Some of the others dropped out, but not Col. Frank Wishart, for he pursued his purpose as he had pledged himself to do. Finally in May, 1872, he rode off upon his mule to keep an appointment with the outlaws. The mule came back, but not the gallant Colonel, for the outlaws way- laid and killed him near the Maxton-Lumberton road. [ 269 ] So great was the terror inspired by the outlaws, that it was with difficulty that enough men could be gotten to- gether to bring the body of the dead leader to his home for burial. Robeson owes much to the memory of this gallant soldier, who died in her service. WILLIAM CLIFTON WISHART, son of Col. Frank M. Wishart, was born in Whiteville in 1871. He should and would have been born in Robeson, but his mother had to flee from Robeson and from threatened extinction at the hands of the Lowrie gang. Her gallant husband did not flee, but stood his ground. At that time the family lived at Floral College but his business was at the nearby village of Shoe Heel, later to be rechristened as Maxton. The village then comprised but few families. Among these were Frank Henderson, Dr. Hawley, Frank Bishop, and Captain H. R. McKinney, whose daughter married A. J. (Sandy) McKinnon. Later on, John Leach, the merchant, Frank McLean, John C. McCaskill (who sued the Seaboard, was interested in perpetual motion, and was a leading citizen) ; John Allen McLean, and two young lawyers, Thomas A. McNeill and Franklin McNeill, joined the colony. Do you remember any of these men? I’ll help you just a little. John Allen McLean was the father of Angus Dhu McLean, Assistant Attorney General of the United States, and of Rev. Sylvester B. McLean of Char- lotte and of Rev. Dr. John Allen McLean of Richmond. Thomas A. McNeill was later to become judge McNeill. Franklin McNeill became Solicitor of the Rockingham district and later Chairman of the Corporation Commis- sion. Now you remember them, don’t you? Robeson just has a way of producing big men, and I’ll now tell you something about another of her big sons. Colonel Wishart’s widow was young and inexperienced, and was faced with the heavy task of rearing three small [270 ] children at a time when the South suffered from the poverty of reconstruction, and from the ruthless raids of the carpetbaggers. In 1874 she married W. B. Harker. Remember him? Of course you do, for he was editor of the Scottish Chief for a number of years. The stepfather had decided views on the bringing up of small children, including rigid observance of the Sabbath, the same severe standards on the other six days, and he was cordial in his approbation of a statement Solomon made one day to the effect that “spare the rod.” You know the rest of it. Natur- ally these Puritan ideas did not sit well with growing and restless youth. : Of course you have all heard the story of how the Rul- ing Elder of the Prebysterian faith, judge Thomas A. McNeill, saw that the stove pipe was about to fall during church services, and how he called out loudly: “Look out, the d—n thing is about to fall.” Well, here is another one. When young Clif Wishart was five years old, he went to call his McNeill friends to breakfast, for they boarded with Mrs. Harker. Mr. Tom told the boy: “TE you don’t quit coming in here and pestering me, the Devil all get you.” “How big is the Devil?” asked young cit He is as large as I am.” “How will he get in here? He wal come through the keyhole.” “Well,” said young Clif, : if he can come through the keyhole, I don’t believe in him anyway.” You could not fool accountant Wishart even in his young days! ; There was little opportunity for improvement under the conditions of the times, and little chance for educa- tion. Such schools as existed lasted but a few weeks and were eked out by “‘subscription” schools, with one teacher one day, anot Wishart had been assisting his step-father, Postmaster Harker, and acquired a fondness for railroads which he [271 ] her the next and none at all the third. Young: SS fis ate aS retains to this day. He secured a position as express messen- ger on a branch of the Atlantic Coast Line. Do you know of any other distinguished Robesonian who started life as an express messenger? Kenneth M. Biggs of Lumberton. Yes sir! On the Coast Line, too. Did you ever hear of Col. Alfred Rowland, the Con- federate soldier, lawyer, Congressman, the man for whom Rowland was named—father of Miss Pennie, Miss Bunch and Mrs. D. P. Shaw? Well, he had long been a friend of the Wishart family, and he offered young Clif an appoint- ment to the Naval Academy at Annapolis—and he went into the transportation business in a big way, altho this time it was by water instead of by rail. But young Wishart was ambitious, full of energy, and must needs he his own master. He could not brook the rigid discipline of the Naval Academy, so after two years he made his adieu to the future Admirals, and returned to his beloved rail- roading. He still felt the need of assistance, and this took the form of an Eve in the person of Miss Anne Armfield, of Mt. Airy. Her brother, J. F. L. Armfield, was owner of the Armfield Company, of Fayetteville, and he married a sister of Governor Angus Wilton McLean, and our townsman Alexander Torrey McLean. Mrs. Wishart is still living (still standing by her husband) and she is the mother of two fine boys and two attractive daughters. Of course our older people remember the Cleveland panic, the low prices and the economic depression which struck the South in the early ’90s. This forced Mr. Wishart to go North to seek his fortune. He went to New York and stayed there four years. Then he was appointed as statistical clerk to the Corporation Commission, of which his friend Franklin McNeill was chairman. This appoint- ment was made upon the suggestion of E. L. McCormick [ 272 ] —_ of Maxton—father of the brilliant lawyer, J. Gilchrist McCormick. ; Then Mr. Wishart became an Examiner for the Inter- state Commerce Commission. This brought him into close iness men near the top of the ladder, and contact with bus : are, looking for men d such men always seem to be, an i with brains, character and energy. Mr. Wishart Sn these three characteristics, and in 1913 he entere i d, one of the i f the New York Central Railroad, peiia ems of the Nation. When he was at the bot- and he has been arge of account- largest transportation syst ; started in the transportation business 1t tom, but he worked his way to the top, for twenty-one years Vice-president in ch i i mpose the vast ing for the hundred or more lines which comp: Central system. he This tee has not had the privilege of personal ac- quaintance with Mr. Wishart, but after a legal career of forty years I feel perfectly safe in saying that ne isa ee man, for you do not get to be Vice-president 0 any 2B railroad unless you possess brains in a real brainy ae least I was on the legal staff of a railroad for twenty-five years, but they never made me Vice-president. As near . I ever got toa Vice-president was the outside room, anc was then told coldly by the Secretary that ee Goes dent was either “out” or “in conference.” I know the Southern, the Coast Line or the Seaboard could yee e man as Vice-president unless he had the right sort 0} oe in him—and when you get up toa really big system 41 the New York Central, and to a city as large as New as their requirements are even the more rigid. And he starte at the bottom, and they evidently like him at the top linians _L know of only a few North Caro for there he stays ee in the who have really made good in t : Gordon Battle, the lawyer, George C. Allen, ee a 2 the Duke Foundation; Smith Richardson of Vick’s Chem- ical Company—and Mr. Wishart. He will soon reach the age when, by the rigid rules of the Central system, he will be retired for age, when in his prime. If, when and as such occurs, on behalf of the united people of the State of Robeson, an invitation is cordially extended to him to return to the land of his nativity, and spend the best years of his life among his friends and kindred. “Grow old along with me, the best is yet to be, The last of life, for which the first was made.” [ 274 ] OBITUARIES Pe re SA Saad SIMEON F. CALDWELL Simeon F. Caldwell Lumberton and e lost an unassuming, friendly Chris- s universally loved and admired for £ mind and heart and soul. He was ’s buffets and rewards with IN the passing of Robeson county hav tian gentleman who wa his many noble traits 0 an heroic soul, taking “fortune equal thanks.” As a tribute to him The Robesonian can- not do better than to publish in this column and endorse as its own, as we are sure all who knew him will endorse as their sentiments, the eloquent tribute by a friend of R. C. Lawrence. Mr. Lawrence, from inti- many years, mate knowledge extending over about forty years, writes as follows of Mr. Caldwell: I would here pay tribute to my friend of many years, one of the finest gentlemen I ever knew—Simeon Cald- well. I knew his high aspirations in the flush of his young manhood; I knew the settled convictions of his maturity; I watched with pride and admiration the heroic fight he made against adverse economic conditions. I saw him during his entire business career maintain that rugged integrity which characterized his beloved and lamented father, Robert D. Caldwell, and all Robeson knew Simeon as the worthy son of a noble sire. He experienced both sorts of fortune. In the days of prosperity, his generosity was unstinted and his charity knew no bounds. When economic depression came, he at all times maintained that calmness of soul and serenity of spirit which only a man who was captain of his fate could maintain. He was the kindliest and friendliest of men, and if the storm of life beat about him, it never rose [277] oa at eee but that his cheery voice could be heard above it se ae his message of comfort, hope and courage to fis noes He never had an enemy, and all who knew him . rae im ae gentle soul that he was. Of him it can y said that he held “mali tele e held “malice toward none, and char- Se Seas his gaze was fixed upon that home e wit ands, eternal in the he I ; avens. He k ttn 5 had epee ne and exemplified the Ghescan every-day walk and conversation. T. : Penne ae poe when he was not prepared for the cates ee - S or ee all the trumpets were sounded upon er side, but his goi id i i Be tg. going leaves a void in our midst aly ae ee flower I would lay upon his grave is the white aided ee sora life, for the gallant gentleman that . is flower will not wither, but wi i grant in our memory unto the perfect we pee [ 278 ] A CHARLES B. SKIPPER: FRIEND OF ROBESON WHEN I came to Lumberton in 1903, the first two to! greet me were Stephen McIntyre and Charlie Skipper. How I miss both of them to-day, and how the unbidden tear streams down my face as I wri will be sorely missed on account 0 his character; the large calibre of his service; his faithful- ness and his loyalty. For Charlie was a friend to all Robe- son, and no man ever knew him who did not love him. To-day as his mortal frame lies still, I would, in his memory, speak a word of cheer to those who remain be- hind—for Charlie put a world of hope and encourage- ment into the lives of those who needed it the most; he put a song into the heart and upon the lips of all Robeson. Yesterday there passed from earth the last of the quartet, the sweet singers known throughout the valley of the Lum- ber—Frank Gough, Ed. B. Freeman, Pope Stephens. Charlie has slipped behind the curtain to join the Choir Invisible. If, as most of us believe, possessed of a surety by Char that is best in the Christian count that I mourn the passing of my old and valued friend. His Pilot was aboard the ship that took Charlie from the port of time, bound for that “Beautiful Isle of Somewhere” he loved so much: te these lines. Charlie f£ the high quality of there is a life eternal, it is lie, for he exemplified all life; it is not on that ac- “In that beautiful land On the far away strand.” [279] he'll RCP: ote: ng Ra I IIMA JOYNER NR aa © ear ©) 00 N VI lo) N KR ow | onl (ap) IM