Ben and Julius Ragsdale

Ben and Julius Ragsdale

Asheville News, August 26, 1858 The first mention we find of a young man named Ben is on August 27, 1858, when 12 people are sold at auction on the steps of the Buncombe County Court House. At the time, Ben was 18 years old, placing his birth date around 1840. Also,...
George, Louisa, and William Morris

George, Louisa, and William Morris

HIDDEN HISTORIES George, Louisa, and William Morris We are first introduced to George and Louisa via this will, written by James M.  Smith in February of 1850. George and Louisa are enslaved by James Smith and he is bequeathing them to his wife, Polly. When James...
Tilda, Joe, and their children

Tilda, Joe, and their children

In 1850, a woman named Tilda was enslaved by the Smith family of Asheville. It is likely that she and her family were held captive on the grounds of Buck House, our facility. At this time, Tilda was married to Joe, a wagoner. It is likely that Joe transported goods in...
Rebecca and her daughter Charlotte

Rebecca and her daughter Charlotte

Last Will and Testament of James M. Smith, Asheville, NC Codicil dated January 7, 1854 “…I further direct that the girl Caroline in said will given to my daughter Sarah L McDowell be given to my daughter Jane Cordelia and in her stead I give to the said...