He underwent during the first three years of his life here the rude discipline of apprenticeship as a common farm laborer. He inherited those qualities of mind and heart that go to make up the equipment of the man, whom it seems, is designed, by nature to meet and solve the large problems of business life.
He married in 1875 and remained with the Montgomery family until the early part of 1879 when he ventured out independently for himself in the planting business.
The real history, however, and the accomplishments for which after periods must accord him credit, begins with his removal to Mound Bayou, 1887, whither he came with Isaiah T. Montgomery, in the settlement and development of the colony which still stands to his credit. The soul of honor, he would severely discountenance any appearance of dishonesty on the part of any other man.
Early in the history of Mound Bayou, he died, but his faithful works will forever live in the hearts of Mound Bayou Citizenry.
Bibliography
Personal Observation and knowledge.
Will Strong attended the first Public School of Mound Bayou and his wife, Charlotte Strong, was the first girl born there so they are personally acquainted with the early settlers and their history.
Note: According to the 1860 Warren County Slave Schedule, Joseph Davis owned 365 slaves and his brother Jefferson Davis owned 113 slaves.
Warren County, MS, 1860 Slaveholders and Surname Matches for African Americans on 1870 Census,
Transcribed by Tom Blake