The History of Ashley County - From Y.W. Etheridge's work titled History of Ashley County

Early Public Officials

The early public officials of Ashley County were highly respected by their fellow citizens, although they owned little property. The first county judge, William E. Willis, owned no land and only two slaves of taxable age. G. W. Worthington, the clerk, owned 120 acres of land south of Fountain Hill. Other officials, including the two associate justices, Joseph Adams and Lemarcus Deal, owned neither land nor slaves.

After the county site was located at Hamburg, the new town was laid out, and lots were surveyed and sold by the county commissioners. The courthouse and jail were built, and Hamburg was incorporated with a post office established. Roads were laid out from various settlements to the county site, known as the “seat of justice.” These roads were essential for connecting the different communities within the county.

Development of Roads and Infrastructure

The development of roads and infrastructure was a significant focus for the early public officials. Roads were established by appointing a “jury of view” who determined the route of a proposed road and reported back to the court. One of the first roads established in 1849 began at the Drew-Ashley line and extended south to various settlements. Other roads connected different parts of the county, facilitating transportation and communication.

The first bridges in Ashley County were toll bridges built by individuals who charged a small fee for crossing. One such bridge was built by Henry C. Dade across Overflow Creek in 1850. In addition to bridges, ferries were also established to facilitate transportation across larger streams. Licenses were issued to individuals to operate these ferries, and fees were set for various types of crossings.

Financial Matters and Legal Issues

The financial matters of the county were managed by the sheriff, who collected property taxes and license fees. The early sheriffs faced challenges in managing their accounts, and some were found to be short in their accounts and were forced to refund the shortages. The county court also played a significant role in incorporating the town of Hamburg and managing legal matters, including the freeing of slaves upon proper petition and consent of the master.

The circuit court, which had chancery and probate jurisdiction in addition to its civil and criminal authority, was busy with judgments for debts, appeals from county court, and other small matters. There were few trials for murder and other felony charges.

Establishment of the County

Governor Thomas S. Drew approved the act to establish Ashley County, with the provision that the justices of the peace previously elected and serving should retain their office under the new organization. The first county officers were elected, including the sheriff, clerk, treasurer, coroner, surveyor, and commissioners. The commissioners were responsible for locating the county seat and managing the sale of lots in the new town of Hamburg.

The temporary seat of justice was initially at the house of Isaac Denson at Fountain Hill. The county seat was later moved to within five miles of the center of the county. The commissioners entered or claimed land from the government for the county seat, and the town of Hamburg was laid out with courthouse square, lots, and blocks. Public sales of these lots were held, and the proceeds were used for county purposes.

Economic Activities and Growth

The economy of Ashley County in the late 19th century was primarily based on agriculture, with cotton being the dominant crop. The county also saw the growth of sawmills and the construction of frame buildings, replacing log houses. The number of merchants in Hamburg increased, and the town became a hub of economic activity. The population of the county grew significantly, with both the white population and the number of slaves increasing.

During the decade before the Civil War, the white population grew from 2,058 in 1850 to 4,829, and the number of slaves increased from 644 to 3,761. The value of slaves and land was high, with a slave of workable age worth between $1,300 and $2,000, and land valued at $20 to $50 per acre. Cotton prices ranged from ten to fifteen cents per pound.

Notable Individuals and Events

Several notable individuals played significant roles in the development of Ashley County. John McGehee, T.S. McHenry, and Solomon Felsenthal were among the key figures involved in economic activities such as farming and timber cutting. The construction of buildings and railroads also contributed to the county’s growth and development.

The managers of the 1850 election included Isaac Denson, Ambrose Bull, William Daniels, James Sims, Joel Hawley, Benjamin F. Williams, John Carter, Josiah Stephens, William Hopkins, John L. Hawkins, Anguish Cameron, Joseph Dean, John P. Fisher, John D. Herd, and Cypeau Lambert. Elections were held viva voce, where voters spoke out the names of their chosen candidates.

Conclusion

The history of Ashley County is marked by the efforts of its early public officials, the development of infrastructure, and the growth of its economy. The county’s journey from its establishment to the late 19th century reflects the challenges and achievements of its residents in building a prosperous community. The dedication of individuals in various roles, from public officials to private citizens, contributed to the county’s progress and success.