Richard Coleman's Deposition in the Pension Case of John Culver

Richard Coleman b. abt. 1855 - d. July 01, 1927
Daughter Alice Coleman b. 1900
Wife Rosetta Ervin Coleman b. abt. 1856 - d. aft. 1930
Photo Courtesy of Gertha Hilliard Williams and Alice Hilliard Young
Special Thanks to Lela Coleman

Richard was born in Caseyville, Copiah County, MS on Daniel Buie's plantation. He was the son of Cupit and Lucinda Coleman. Richard officiated as minister at the graveside burial for John Culver.

I am 53 years of age. I know this claimant (Hannah Culver). She married my uncle, George Coleman, soon after the war and lived with him until he died about four or five years age. Her name should be Hannah Coleman. She had no children. I can't say that they were lawfully married, but they passed as man and wife as long as they lived together. I think she was uncle's first wife. I know nothing about her having John Culver in slave time. I never know her to live with John Culver at any time.

I knew John Culver in his lifetime. I officiated at his burial but I not now recall the date. I never knew him to have but one wife, Susie. She is mother of this ward (John Culver, Jr.), who is still living. I know nothing of John's former wives. I have known Her first and only legal marriage was to John Culver. She was never divorced from him. She took care of him until he died. Her child John is about 12 or 14. I have heard the above; I have understood it; it is correct.

Rev. Richard Coleman