John Henry Gibson-
From:
Indiana
Federal Writers' Project
of the W.P.A.
District #6
Marion County
Anna Pritchett
1200 Kentucky Avenue
FOLKLORE
JOHN HENRY GIBSON--EX-SLAVE
Colton Street
John Henry Gibson was born a slave, many years ago, in Scott County,
N.C.
His old master, John Henry Bidding, was a wealthy farmer; he also owned
the hotel, or rooming house.
When court was in session the "higher ups" would come to this house, and
stay until the court affairs were settled.
Mr. Bidding, who was very kind to his slaves, died when John Gibson was
very young. All slaves and other property passed on to the son, Joseph
Bidding, who in turn was as kind as his father had been.
Gibson's father belonged to General Lee Gibson, who was a neighboring
farmer. He saw and met Miss Elizabeth Bidding's maid; they liked each
other so very much, Miss Elizabeth bought him from General Gibson, and
let him have her maid as his wife. The wife lived only a short time,
leaving a little boy.
After the Civil war, a white man, by the name of Luster, was comming to
Ohio, brought John Gibson with him. They came to Indianapolis, and
Gibson liked it so well, he decided to remain; Mr. Luster told him if he
ever became dissatisfied to come on to Ohio to him, but he remained in
Indianapolis until 1872, then went back south, married, came back, and
made Indianapolis his home.
Interviewer's Comment
Mr. Gibson is very old, but does not know his exact age. He fought in
the Civil war, and said he could not be very young to have done that.
His sight is very nearly gone, can only distinguish light and dark.
He is very proud of his name, having been named for his old master.
Submitted January 24, 1938
Indianapolis, Indiana
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