Ira Ayer, Jr. and the Freedmen's Bureau

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Ira Ayer, Jr. and the Freedmen's Bureau
1866-1868
Transcriptions

Below is are transcriptions of the documents collected. Some have not been transcribed yet. Ones where there is no link for source have not been scanned yet.
The Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen, and Abandoned Lands, also know as the Freedmen's Bureau, was created in 1865 as part of the War Department to aid the newly freed slaves and refugees with food, clothing, education, work, health and justice. I'm not sure what Ira did between the time he reenlisted in May of 1865 and February of 1866, but from that time on until he resigned in the end of 1868 he was part of the Freedmen's Bureau. For the first few months he was stationed in Augusta and Albany, Georgia. The rest of the time he was in Ashland, Virginia. Below are documents, mostly from National Archives publications M798, M1903 and M1913. There are also some (the Outrages) from M1048 and were transcribed by FreedmensBureau.com.
Terms:

A. S. A. Comm or A. S. A. C.: Acting Sub-Assistant Commissioner

Bu. R. F. & A. L.: Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands

Endorsement: When a request or a question was received by a district office a summary of the response went into a book of "Endorsements"

Letter Summary: For each office, when a letter was received a summary of it went into a "Register of Letters Received"; quoting a letter summary usually means I was not able to find or read the original letter.

Military Commissioner: Ira was the Military Commissioner first for Hanover, County, VA and later for both Hanover and King William Counties. He was essentially the local leader in an occupied country. These positions lasted until new leaders could be freely elected by both the white and black male populations.

Press Copy: Before copy machines and before carbon paper, copies were made by taking a thin, damp piece of paper and pressing it onto a newly written document. This bled a small amount of ink from the original to the "Press Copy". These documents are notoriously hard to read.

Sub-Assistant Commissioner or Subassistant Commissioner: Commander of a sub-district, each state had several sub-districts

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r11v1-660305 Source	5-Mar-66	Letter Summary	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Augusta, GA	Ira requests permission to deal with his sister-in-law's son Eddie Pollard

March 5^th 1866

Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Lt. Col. ASA Comd.
E. & M. 118

Augusta, Ga., March 5^th 1866
States that during the war his sister-in-law Miss James married Mr. E. A. Pollard who has since deserted her on account of [rinion] sentiments and is now living with another woman. The injured woman has a child in Macon, Ga. which she desires to get possession of.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r8v20-118 Source	5-Mar-66	Endorsement	From: Brig. Gen. Davis Tillson, Augusta, GA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Augusta, GA	Approved Ira's request to settle case of Ira's sister-in-law Annie James Pollard's son Eddie who was at his aunt's house in Macon.

Bvt. Lt. Col. Ira Ayer, A S A Comd.
/155
L. R. B. 2

Endorsement in Communication from Bvt. Lt. Col. Ira Ayer, Jr. A. S. A. Comd, in behalf of Mrs. E. A. Pollard, who desires to get possession of her child which is in the custody of Mrs. Theodore Parker of Macon Ga. dated Augusta, Ga. March 5th, 1866.
Respectfully returned. The mother of the child within referred to. becomes the legal guardian by the decision of its Father Mr. Pollard, and must therefore be given up to the Brevet Lt. Col. Ayer who has the necessary authority to represent the mother. The office of the Bureau at Macon will give Lt. Col Ayer any assistance he may need to obtain the possession of the child of Mrs. Pollard.

Davis Tillson
Brig. Gen Vols.
& Ass't Cmd.

Office Ass't Com'r. Bureau R. F. & C. L.
Augusta, Ga. March 5, 1866

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1903r46v150-660305-1 Source	5-Mar-66	Letter, Press Copy	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Augusta, GA To: L. Matthews, Washington Co., GA	Letter reprimanding Agent Matthews for not defending the rights of freedpeople. He said the former slave "is a free man, and those seek to render his condition otherwise must be make to feel the power of the Government to protect them in their freedom."

Office of A S A Commissioner
Dist of Augusta, Ga. March 5^th/66
Sir;
   It has been reported at this office that a Mrs. Jeddin Adams of your county has failed to comply with the terms of a contract made between her and certain employees (free-people); that the said Adams drew a pistol upon one [Ellafair] [Smens], using the following language - "I'll put six balls through your heart." that a Mr. George Mills acting in the interest of said Adams struck the said freewoman two blows and threatened to "knock out her brains." and further, that the said Mills pursued one Henry [Smens], employee, having a rope with which he threatened to the said employee, with the intention of whipping him.
   It is unnecessary for me to inform you that the treatment as reported in inhuman and inexcusable and cannot in any instance be tolerated.
   It is further reported that when complaint was entered to you in the above case you [obrectes] the complainants to return to service and in case of a similar occurrence to report again to you.
   It becomes my duty respectfully to inform you that if the case receives no further attention at your hands than represented, you failed to give it the investigation which the barbarous and murderous spirit manifested upon the part of the employers demanded that you should.
   Hereafter you will not wait for the treats "tieing", "whipping", or "shooting", or any other threats incident to a condition of slavery, to be repeated. The relation of the former slave is now changed. He is a free man, and those who seek to render his condition otherwise must be made to feel the power of the Government to protect them in their freedom. As Agent of the Government you are expected to see that strict justice is maintained between the former owner and the former slave. So far from the countenancing by silence, such conduct as the above, you must bring the offender, whoever he or she may, to sure and speedy punishment. At the same time it is your privilege and duty to encourage the continuation of kindly feelings and mutual good will among all the classes. The interests of humanity and the restoration of civil law and order so essential to the happiness and prosperity of your state are in a measure entrusted to your care. If you do your whole duty you will, in the end, have the sincere gratitude of all intelligent and rightminded citizens.
   You will give the previous case a full investigation and if evidence appears of brutal, or unfair, or unkind treatment upon the part of the said Adams or of anyone acting in her interest, you will cause her to pay the complainants an equitable amount as compensation for services rendered. You will also [interssace] your official authority to ensure the peaceful removal of all their effects from the premises of their late employees.
   Very respectfully
      Ira Ayer, Jr. Bvt. Col. [UVR]
      A S A Commissioner
Mr. L. Matthews
   Agent Bureau R F A L
      Washington Co. Ga.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1903r46v150-660305-2 Source	5-Mar-66	Letter, Press Copy	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Augusta, GA To: Mr. C. Jones, Crawfordsville, GA	Ira instructs Jones to transport a family from Crawfordsville to Augusta and he should ensure their safety at all costs.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1903r46v150-660307 Source	7-Mar-66	Letter, Press Copy	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Augusta, GA To: Mr. William Whigham, Jefferson Co., GA	Ira says that even though all freedpeople should enter into contracts based on their ability to work, under certain cases, exceptions should be made.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r2v12-151 Source	20-Mar-66	Telegram, Press Copy	From: W. W. Deane, Augusta, GA To: Brig. Gen. Davis Tillson, Savannah, GA	Deane says based on an opening he would take Ira unless Tillson was against it.

March 20^th

Brig. Gen. Tilson
Freedmen's Bureau
Savannah, Ga.

Maj. Hastings is [...] ordered to be [...]. Shall send Col. Ayer to take his place unless otherwise directed. W. W. Deane
Very Respectfully
Capt. [...]

Note:
This appears to be when Ira was transferred from Augusta to Albany.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r11v1-660313 Source	31-Mar-66	Letter Summary	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Ira requests transportation for Peter (freedman) to hospital in Macon

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r2v12-289 Source	3-Apr-66	Letter, Press Copy	From: Geo. H. Pratt, Augusta, GA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Transportation for a freedman

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r8v20-155 Source	3-Apr-66	Endorsement	From: W. W. Deane, Augusta, GA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Approved Ira's request to transport Peter (freedman) to Macon to be admitted to the hospital.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r2v12-303 Source	4-Apr-66	Letter, Press Copy	From: W. W. Deane, Augusta, GA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Reply saying that Ira should hold Fred who is accused of horse stealing

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r8v20-168 Source	15-Apr-66	Endorsement	From: W. W. Deane, Augusta, GA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Approved Rev. W. H. Roberts request to use former Confederate owned buildings for a church and school house for freedpeople.

Bt. Lt. Col. Ayer
A. S. Comm'd
155/178
L. R. B. 421

Endorsement on Communication from Rev. W. H. Roberts dated Macon, Ga. Febr'y 7^th 1866, requesting a transfer of the buildings at Americus, Ga., formerly belonging to the Confederate Govt., to be used as a Church and School for the freed people.

Albany, Ga. Febr'y 8^th1866

Respectfully referred to Brig. Gen. Davis Tillson, A. A. Com'r State of Georgia, and recommended

G. A. Hastings
Maj. & A. S. A. Com'r.

Respectfully returned. The buildings referred to within may be turned over to the freedpeople for a schoolhouse and church; provided the freedpeople will furnish a suitable site for the erection of the building, and [secuis] the title to themselves or their successors.

By Command of
Brig. Gen. Tillson
W. W. Deane
Capt. & A. A. S.

Office A. A. Com'r - Bureau R. F. & A. L.
Augusta, Ga. April 15^th 1866

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r8v20-178 Source	20-Apr-66	Endorsement	From: W. W. Deane, Augusta, GA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Endorsement for a case of L. H. Peacock vs. Peter Martin (freedman). I'm not sure what the case was or the result.

Bt. Lt. Col. Ayer
A. S. Comm'd
168/187
L. R. B. 68

Endorsements of Communication from C. G. Campbell Esq, Ag't Bureau R. F & A. L. forwarding papers in case of L. H. Peacock vs. Peter Marstin (Freedman), tried before him have contract approved, dated Bainbridge, Ga. March 29^th 1866.

Bainbridge, Ga. March 29^th 1866

Respectfully forwarded through Maj. Hastings and attention called to the reasons given for judgment

C. G. Campbell ag't

Albany, Ga. April 6^th 1866

Respectfully returned through Bvt. Lt. Col. Ayer - The action of C. G. Campbell Esq. Agent Bureau R. F. & A. L., in this case is approved and confirmed.

By Command of
Brig. Gen. Tillson,
W. W. Deane
Capt. & A. S. G

Office A. A. Com'r - Bureau R. F. & A. L.
Augusta, Ga. April 20^th 1866

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1903r1v62-390 Source	22-Apr-66	Letter, Press Copy	From: C. F. Matson To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Sending clothing

April 22
Colonel,
I have the honor to inform you that I have [tusseel] [om] to Col. Smith, C Que. Dept. of Ga. a lot of clothing for transportation to you.
Enclosed please find a memorandum receipt which sign and return to me when received.
This Clothing you can distribute to destitute whites, as well as blacks.
Receipt will be taken on the [such in rolls] the same as [indexes] & [salilins], one rolls I know handled.
You can forward me the receipt you get a [selt fieled] instead of monthly.

Respectfully
Your obed�t servnt.
C. F Watson
Capt & C. Q. M.

Lt. Col. Ira Ayer
A. S. A. Commr. Albany, Ga.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r8v20-186 Source	25-Apr-66	Endorsement	From: W. W. Deane, Augusta, GA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	In a dispute over a contract, it was determined that freedwoman Amelia Hill be returned to her husband David.

Bt. Lt. Col. Ayer
A. S. Comm'd
/178
L. R. B. 395

Endorsement on Communication from Samuel Pendrey, dated Newton, Ga. March 1^st 1866, transmitting papers in case between Samuel Pendrey & C. L. Whitehead, relaton to a contract made with the former by David Hill & Amelia his Wife (Freedpeople):
Respectfully returned through Brt. Lt. Col. Ayer to Mr. Samuel Pendrey - The decision of Lt. Strong in the within case is approved. The woman will be returned to her husband and complete the contract made for her by her husband, if it gives good pay. It is deemed preferable in all cases, that both husband and wife should sign contract to labor.

By Command of
Brig. Gen. Tillson,
W. W. Deane
Capt. & A. S. G

Office A. A. Com'r - Bureau R. F. & A. L.
Augusta, Ga. April 25^th 1866

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r11v1-660507 Source	7-May-66	Letter Summary	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Ira confiscates land for a church and school for freedmen.

July 4^th

Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bt. Lt. Col. & A.S. A. Com'd
E. & M. 118

Albany, Ga., May 7^th 1866
Issues Special Order No. 3, turning over to the freedpeople of Americus, Ga., two buildings formerly belonging to the Confederate Gov't, to be used for school and church purposes.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1903r34v234-65 Source	8-Jun-66	Letter, Press Copy	From: F. A. H. Gabel To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Several freed people came to Gabel to complain of being mistreated.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r8v20-234 Source	12-Jun-66	Endorsement	From: Brig. Gen. Davis Tillson, Augusta, GA To: Maj. Gen. Howard	Forward of request by Mrs. Jane F. James to have Ira transferred to Richmond.

Maj. Gen. Howard
Com'd
227/235
L. R. B. 243L

Endorsement in Communication from Mrs. Jane F. James dated Ashland, Va., Near Richmond, June 5th, 1866 in regard to the order assigning Bt. Lt. Col. Ira Ayer to duty in Richmond, Va.
Respectfully forwarded to Maj. Gen. Howard Com'd attention is invited to [incloud] copy of communication from the undersigned relative to the relief of Bvt. Lt. Col. Ayer from duty in the Bureau in this state. The offices having reported for duty in this State, he can be relieved without detriment to the service.

Davis Tillson
Br. Maj. Gen.
& Ass't Com'd

Office a. Comm' Bureau R. F. & A. L.
Augusta, Ga. June 12, 1866

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r3v13-212 Source	22-Jun-66	Letter, Press Copy	From: ?, Augusta, GA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Albany, GA	Order admitting Eliza (freedwoman) to the hospital in Macon with transportation from Albany.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m0798r8v20-270 Source	16-Jul-66	Endorsement	From: Brig. Gen. Davis Tillson, Augusta, GA To: Lt. Geo Wagner	The buildings transferred to Rev. W. H. Roberts are to be returned. Ira exceeded his authority in issuing the transfer order.

Lt. Geo Wagner
A. S. Comm'd
/178
L. R. B. 8

Endorsement on Special Orders No. 3, dated Albany, Ga. May 7^th, 1866 issued by Bt. Lt. Col. Ira Ayer, Jr. A. S. A. Com't turning over to Rev. W. H. Roberts Missionary, two buildings at Americus, Ga., to be used by the freedpeople of that place for school and church purposes.
Col. Ayer in issuing the within order, exceeded his authority; and it is, therefore, null and void - Lt. Wagner will see that the building referred to is placed in the hands of Mrs. E. A. Christian for school purposes; and he will allow it to be used for religious services at any time that may or may not interrupt the school.

Davis Tillson,
Bt. Maj. Gen'l
& Ass't Com'd

Office A. Com'r - Bureau R. F. & A. L.
Augusta, Ga. July 16^th 1866

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-660731 Source	31-Jul-66	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. J. A. McDonnell, Richmond, VA	Monthly report including report on schools

Bureau R. F. & A. L. Sup. Dist.
of Hanover, Ashland, Va. July 31^st 1866

Capt. J. A. M^cDonnell
Supt. 3^d Dist. Richmond Va.

Sir:
In compliance with existing instructions I have the honor herwith to submit the following reports.

No cases have been tried in the Freedmen's Court of this Sub. Dist. during the present month; and no fines collected.
No Contracts have been made during the month and no fees have been received accruing therefrom
Report of Rations issued during the month as per enclosed "Form." Have issued 2170 Rations. (no Form on hand)
I know of no freedmen in this Sub. Dist. able to work, and for whom employment cannot be found.
Report as ordered Circular No. 6 C. S. Hd. Qurs. asst. Comr. Va. Richmond Va. (Enclosed)
There have been no "detailed" men on duty in this Sub. Dist. during the present month.
There are no civilians employed in this Sub. District.
No changes have been made in the constitution of the Freedmens' Court during the present month.
"Ration Return" for "destitutes" for the month of August 1866. (Enclosed)

I am, Sir, Very Respectfully
Your Obt. servant
Ira Ayer, Jr. Bvt. Lt. Col.
Asst. Supr. Sub Ditst. Hanover

Note:
Of the three attachted reports, only the school report is included but that has not been transcribed.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-660810 Source	10-Aug-66	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Could use 50 suits of men's clothing and 50 suits of boys clothing

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-660906 Source	6-Sep-66	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Not supplying rations to freedmen who are not from the county

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r164v404-187 Source	29-Sep-66	Letter Summary	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Ira reports that a colored man who sold his land for which he was not paid, another requires transportation to the hospital and a gun was removed from the home of a colored woman by a private citizen at the request of the magistrate because VA law does to allow blacks to own weapons. Ira requests information on whether blacks are allowed to own guns.

Ayer, Bvt. Col. Ira, Jr. Asst. Supt.
Ashland, Va., Sept. 29, 1866

Writes on behalf of Jacob Peatroes (col'd) who having sold a piece of land is unable to secure pay for same.
Request transportation for Charlotte (colored) woman from Ashland, Va. to Richmond, Va. to enter Hospital, and states that she seems to have little [seude].
Reports that a private citizen took from house of Josephine Dustan (col'd) a gun belonging to her husband stating that he did so by direction of his father, who is a magistrate. Requests to be informed whether Freedmen are permitted to have arms in their possession.

Note:
Could not find the original letter.
It was illegal in Virginia for blacks to own firearms but that law was overridden by the Federal Civil Rights act of April, 1866 and even more so by the Fourteen Amendment to the Constitution enacted in 1868.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-660930 Source	30-Sep-66	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. J. A. McDonnell, Richmond, VA	Monthly report

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Sup.
Dist. of Hanover, Ashland, Va.
Sept. 30^th 1866

Capt. J. A. M^cDonnell
Supt. 3^d Dist. Richmond Va.

Sir:
In accordance with existing instructions I have the honor herwith to submit the following Reports.

No cases have been tried in the Freedmen's Court of this Sub. Dist. during the present month; and no "fines" or "costs" have been collected.
No Contracts have been made during the month, and no "fees" have been received accruing therefrom
Report of Rations issued during the month as per enclosed form (No Blanks) Number 2100.
I know of no freedmen in this Sub. Dist. who are able to work and for whom employment cannot be found.
Report as ordered Circular No. 6 Hd. Qurs. A. C. Richmond Va. January 29^th 1866. (Enclosed)
There have been no detailed men on duty in this Sub. Dist. during the present month.
There are no civilians employed in this Sub. District.
No changes have been made in the constitution of the Freedmens' Court during the present month.
Report as directed Par 6 Cir No 10. Hd Qurs. A. C. Richmond Va. Mch 13, 1866. (Enclosed)

I am Captain
Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Lt. Col & A. S. S. Commr.

Note:
None of the "Enclosed" reports are included.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-661124 Source	24-Nov-66	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Estimates that they will need 2170 rations for December 1866 for destitute refugees and freedmen

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-661208 Source	8-Dec-66	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Unable to secure the release of insane freedman

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office Asst Supt.
Sub. Dist. of Hanover, Ashland, Va.
Dec. 8^th 1866

Capt. James A. Bates
Supt. 3^d Bureau R. F. & A. L
Richmond, Va.

Sir:
I have the honor Respectfully to state that I have been unable up to this time to secure the release from the county jail of the freedman Preston Priddy, (insane, for whom I obtained transportation to Richmond and admittance to Hospital, some weeks since.
He was committed fro having made an assault upon a white woman, citizen of the County; but when about to be tried was found to be of unsound mind, and was returned to jail for safe keeping.
Application was then made by the County Authorities for his transfer to the State Asylums, but it was returned with the information that they were both full to overflowing.
Under these circumstances Judge John Critcher, of the Circuit Court, by whom he was committed does not feel authorized to release him as he feels it would be a violation of Law. He, however, expresses his regret that he could not be justified in doing so.
The difficulty is that the Law only provides, in such cases, for trial, continued confinement, or transfer to one of the State Asylums; but does not contemplate their being turned over to the charge of this Bureau.
Believing that the authority is vested in some higher official to order his release, and that the case eminently demands that this man be where he can receive proper care and medical treatment, the subject is respectfully submitted for your consideration and action.

Note:
The end of this letter is missing, but it's probably only the salutation.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-661219 Source	19-Dec-66	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Request for office supplies (Stationary, fuel and forage) for the next three months

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-661221 Source	21-Dec-66	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	The number of rations required for January are men - 682, women - 868, children - 310, Total - 1860

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-661225 Source	25-Dec-66	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	The amount of clothing estimated to be required through 31 March are men - 25 suits, women - 25 suits, children - 20 suites, Total - 70

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r164v414-1 Source	3-Jan-67	Endorsement	From: James A. Bates, Richmond, VA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Ira has permission to buy 1 cord of wood a month to heat the office

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r164v414-7 Source	15-Jan-67	Endorsement	From: James A. Bates, Richmond, VA To: George O White and Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Clothing should be forwarded to Ira's office

White Geo. O.
[...]

Ayer, Ira
Col and Ast supt

Rec'd Jany. 15^th 1867 and forwarded
Bureau R. F. and A. Lands>
Office Supt. 3^d Dist. Dept. of Potomac
Richmond Va. Jany. 15^th 1867

Respectfully returned to Bvt Major Geo. O. White [C L F Cr. Am.] and F. Agt. with the request that the clothing called for in the within communication be at once forwarded to Col Ayers, as the persons for whom it is desired are destitute of Clothing.
You will please state the quantity of Stationary allowed to a Dist. Supr, as this Office is without the information.

James A. Bates
Capt 43^rd Infty and Supt

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r164v414-8 Source	16-Jan-67	Endorsement	From: James A. Bates, Richmond, VA To: George O White and Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Find out if the request for clothing has been filled

White Geo. O.
[...]

Ayer, Ira
Col and Ast supt

Rec'd Jany. 15^th/67 and forwarded
Bureau R. F. and A. Lands
Office Supt. 3^d Dist. Dept. of Potomac
Richmond Va. Jany. 16^th 1867

Respectfully returned to Bvt Major Geo. O. White Chf. Or. [Am.] and Find Agt. to know whether the request made for Clothing Jany. 3^d 1867 from this Officer to be sent to Bvt Col Ira Ayer, has been complied with.

James A. Bates
Capt 43^rd Infty and Supt

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670117 Source	17-Jan-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Ira estimates that they will need a total of 2072 rations (25 men, 34 women and 30 children times 28 days) for February for the destitute

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670119 Source	19-Jan-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Ira investigated the status of destitute freed people in Beaver Dam Depot

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office Asst.
Supt. Sub. Dist. of Hanover, Ashland, Va.
Jany. 19^th 1867

Capt. James A. Bates
Supt. 3^d Dist. Dept. of Potomac.
Richmond, Va.

Sir:
In obedience to your instructions of the 14^th inst I have the honor to report my return from Beaver Dam Depot. having personally investigated the condition of the Destitute freed people at that place and vicinity.
I have been unable t discover anything special to report relative to their condition. In common with the other Destitutes of the County they have received every assistance which it has been within my province to give them.
My first object in the administration of the duties of this office, has been to allow no case of necessary destitution and suffering to pass unrelieved. My next object has been to prevent imposition upon the government. I consider these duties equally incumbent and I have endeavored to discharge them with equal fidelity.
In my choice of those in need of aid from the government I have in most instances seen them personally & in a few cases, in remote sections of the County, I have taken the statements of gentlemen of acknowledged integrity and reliability.
My last issue of rations at Beaver Dam Depot was for (4) four men, (7) seven women, and (12) twelve children: -- (17) seventeen rations in all. These destitutes are much in need of clothing upon the subject of the delay in the issue of which, I had the honor to address you a communication on the 14^th inst. As I have as yet failed to receive a supply. I again respectfully invite your attention to the obsolete suffering which exists for want of it. When this necessity is supplied, the distressed condition of the Destitute freed people at Beaver Dam and throughout the County will be much relieved.

I have the honor to be Captain
Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Col & Asst. Supt.

Note:
Beaverdam is a small Hanover County community northwest of Ashland most famous as the location of the plantation Scotchdown, a former home of Patrick Henry. Patrick Henry was born Studley in southeast Hanover County.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r166-670205 Source	5-Feb-67	Letter	From: John Critcher, Judge Circuit Court, Oak Grove, VA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	After Ira worte the letter m1913r166-661208 to Captain Bates on 8 December, he must have written one to Judge Critcher on 18 Decmber. Critcher replied that he was unable to help.

Near Oak Grove P. O. Westmoreland Co.
5^th February 1867

Brvt. Col. Ira Ayer, Jr.

Sir:
Your communication of 18^th Dec. addressed to Taffahannock, thence to Montrose has just reached me. I presume the ice on the Rappahannock stopped the mail at that point, & the postmaster neglected to forward it by Fredericksburg.
I sincerely regret, both on account of the trouble you have taken, and the unfortunate negro, Preston Priddy, that I have not the power or authority to comply with your demand. He is indicted for felony; application has been made to the [Sunabe] Asylum of the State, and until there is a vacancy the law expressly declares "such lunatic shall be kept in the jail." Act. Juny. 30 1866. If it was the design of the 5^th Section of the Act of Congress, passed 16 July, 1866, to take from the custody of the State authorities negroes indicted for felony for the purpose of furnishing them medical aid, the applications should be addressed to those who have them in custody. As for myself, I regret to say, on the prisoner's account, I have no more authority [semance] to order his release than a private citizen.
I return the enclosed papers; and will add, I believe the bill just introduced into the Senate of the U. S. by Mr. Trumbull is intended to reach such cases as the one we have now before us.

I am, very respectfully
yr. obt. srevt.
John Critcher

Note:
John Critcher, born in Oak Grove, had fought for the Confederacy. At the time of this letter he was a judge of the eighth judicial circuit of Virginia. He was removed from office after an 1869 Congressional law that stated that any government official who had taken up arms against the United States be removed from office withing 30 days. The law didn't stop him from running for congress where he served on term from 1871-3.
Lyman Trumbull was a senator from Illinois.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670211 Source	11-Feb-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Ira points out that there has been a delay in the deliver of clothing requested back in December

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office Asst. Supt.
Sub. Dist. of Hanover, Ashland, Va.
February 11^th 1867

Capt. James A. Bates
Supt. 3^d Dist. Dept. of Potomac.
Richmond, Va.

Captain:
I desire respectfully to invite your attention to the long delay which has unffortunately occurred hitherto in the transfer of clothing as per requisitions from this office, for issue to destitute freed people of the Sub District.
In the early part of December, I had the honor to make requisition for some fifty suits for adults and thirty for children. In the latter part of January, I received twenty five suits for adults and no clothing for children. The clothing received I issued as far as possilbe, as most needed in some cases giving out men's clothing to women, but there is still much want.
The requisition which I recently forwarded for two hundred suits of children's clothing, will I think, supply the want in that direction.
I earnestly request that this requisition be met at as early a moment as possible; and also that the twenty five suits of women's clothing be forwarded without delay.
It is with reluctance that I again invite attention to this subject; but the actual wants of the colored poor of this County, renderd the move pressing on account of the unusual severity of the weather, will, I trust, seem to you a sufficient apology for my so doing.

I have the honor to be Captain
Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Col & Asst. Supt.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670219 Source	19-Feb-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Rations estimate for March (2294 total, 25 men, 30 women and 30 children times 31 days)

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670308 Source	8-Mar-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Collected a list of deaf, dumb and blind, a total of 16 people

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670410 Source	10-Apr-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Request for a 20 day leave of absence where he will stay in Ashland and come into the office each afternoon and evening

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office Asst.
Supt. Sub. Dist. of Hanover,
Ashland, Va. April 11^th 1867

Capt. James A. Bates
Supt. 3^d Dist. Richmond, Va.

Captain:
I have the honor to request Leave of absence for twenty days for the purpose of attending to highly important business of a private character.
During the time for which this Leave is requested, I shall continue to reside in Ashland, and as I shall be here in person during a portion of each afternoon and evening, I will, if desired perform as far as possible the more pressing and important duties of this office.

I remain Sir,
Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Col & Asst. Supt.

Note:
There is no information as to why Ira needed the leave but it may have been to help his father-in-law. William was being investigated for various complaints relative to his duties as Revenue (Tax) Collector for the 3^rd Revenue District of Virginia. Three or so days before this request, three people submitted complaints against William to his boss in the Treasury Department in Washington. A few days later an investigator arrived in Richmond and in May William was tried. (for more see chapter "William's Work and Appointment" in "The James Family").

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670413 Source	13-Apr-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Ira wants to request seeds from the Dept of Agriculture to allow the destitute to grow some of their own food

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office Asst.
Supt. Sub. Dist. of Hanover,
Ashland, Va. April 13^th 1867

Capt. James A. Bates
Supt. 3^d Dist. Richmond, Va.

Captain:
I have the honor to state for your information that there are in this County many poor people destitute of garden Seeds; and it having occurred to me that in no way the Govt. could render such efficient with so little expenditure, as by their distribution. I have this day written to the Commissioner of Agriculture requesting him to forward me a Package for that purpose.
Should the request meet favorable consideration I will cheerfully undertake, in connection with my official duties, to distribute these seeds as well promote the greatest amount of good.

I remain Sir,
Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Col & Asst. Supt.

Note:
This is a great idea but I have not been able to find out if Ira was successful.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670425 Source	25-Apr-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. James A. Bates, Richmond, VA	Ira reports that there are 20 White people who need food

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office
A. S. A. Comr. Sub. Dist. of Han-
over, Ashland, Va.
April 25^th 1867

Capt. James A. Bates
Supt. 3^d Dist. Richmond, Va.

Captain:
In compliance with the instructions of your letter of the 16^th inst., I have the honor to report twenty (20) white persons in this County who require supplies of food to prevent extreme want who are not now supplied by the county authorities, and whose cause cases are not properly included under the present regulations of the Bureau.

Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Col & Asst. Supt.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57-117 Source	1-May-67	Circular	From: Garrick Mallery, Richmond, VA	Circular No. 9. Register freedmen for elections.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670530 Source	30-May-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	A resident of Bever Dam is in desparate need of hospital supplies

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670704 Source	4-Jul-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	The amount of provisions received did not correspond to the amount sent, however, Ira believes that it had to do with how the previsions were measured at shpping time. There is no implication of theft.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670718 Source	18-Jul-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Ira was asked to look into the case of Constable John L Williams of Beaver Dam, he will go there on Saturday. I have not been able to find out the result of his investigation.

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office A. S. A.
2^nd Div. 3^rd Sub. Dist. Ashland, Va.
July 18^th 1867

Lieut. P. R. Hambrick
A. S. A. Commissioner
3^d Dist. Richmond, Va.

Lieutenant:
I have the honor to state with reference to your letter of the 17^th inst. making inquiry i regard to the communication concerning Constable John L. Williams, that since its reception I have been so occupied with registration duty as to prevent my giving it attention.
Williams lives in the Community of Beaver Dam, at which place I have made arrangement to be on Saturday next when I propose to give the case an investigation. I will report upon it in the early part of the week.
The same cause has prevented my giving the proper attention to other cases in remote sections of teh County which was desirable. I shall hope to have them all disposed of next week.

Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Col & Asst. Supt.

Note:
Ira had been busy registering freedmen for the upcoming State Constitutional Convention. This was an important election because it was the first one the former slaves were allowed to vote in.
I don't know what was up with Constable John L. Williams or what happened with Ira's investigation.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-670916 Source	16-Sep-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Request for clothing for 5 orphan children

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office A. S. A.
2^nd Div. 3^rd Sub. Dist. Ashland, Va.
Sept. 16^th 1867

Lieut. P. R. Hambrick
A. S. A. Commissioner
3^d Dist. Richmond, Va.

Lieutenant:
I have the honor to make requisition for clothing for five orphaned children as follows: -- "Annie" age 4 yrs; Nelson 12; Lucy 10; Judy 8 & Mary 6 years old.
These children have been cared for since the death of their parents by a Mr. Thomas H Fox, residing at Hanover Junction. As he feels unable to provide for them longer. I have found suitable homes for them where they will be housed out, but Mr. Fox is unwilling t oletg them go until better clothed. As the case seems [....], I beg to express their hope that it will receive early and favorable attention.

Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Col & Asst. Supt.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-671016 Source	16-Oct-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Request for clothing for the winter for 25 men, 25 women and 50 children

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57v108-117 Source	28-Oct-67	Letter, Press Copy	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Monthly Report

Bureau R. F. A. L. Office A. S. A. C.
2^nd Div. 3^d Sub Dist Ashland, Va.
Oct. 28^th, 1867
Lieut. P. R. Hambrick
L. A. C. 3^d Sub District
Richmond, Va.
Lieutenant
In compliance with the provisions of Circular No. 6, Bureau R. F. A. L. Hdqrs A. C. Richmond, Va. January 27^th, 1866, I have the honor to submit the following report with reference to the condition of Bureau affairs in this Sub District during the present month.
I think the feelings of the whites toward the coloreds is less friendly than heretofore. This is doubtless owing in part to the result of northern elections and partly to the unanaminity with which the latter sustained their favorite candidates in the election held on the 22^nd inst. They feel [aggrisosed] that They feel aggrieved that the Blacks should have refused to support those who, when they had the power, [ground] their [known] [mans] the [most] forms of Oppression. On the other hand the colored people profess and manifest no ill felling toward the whites but they are not prepared to trust themselves in their hands until they have �brought forth [works] [meet] for repentance.� I have not learned however that any one has been discharged, or otherwise suffered on account of the manner in which he voted.
There is no general complaint with reference to labor. Where hands are properly treated and managed there is no difficulty in getting good and faithful service.
There are at present eight coloreds confined in the County jail, four (4) men, three (3) women and one (1) boy. They are mostly confined for minor offences in disputes of bail. They have a wood floor, proper ventilation, comfortable fires, good beds and bedding and a sufficiency of good and wholesome food.
Much of my time during the past month has been engaging in meeting the colored people endeavor to enlighten them with reference to their privileges as citizens and their duties as free men. It has been most gratifying to witness the warmth and readiness with which the have responded to the truth. The colored people are manifesting an [...] in the area of education. There are three schools in operation in the County, two of which are supported by the parents of the children attending. One at �Shiloh� church which has hitherto been supported by a [beneficent or benevolent] [�.] from the north will, I am informed, [also do???] the present month. One in the [...] [...] of the County is taught by a young white man named William P Brown and numbers about twenty one scholars, all of whom are either in their letters or simply read and spell. The school recently begun in the Court House Dist. is doing very well, numbering about forty (40) scholars. This taught by William Vass (col�d). I think both of these schools should receive some assistances from the Bureau, the matter of which I will represent in my Application for that purpose.
In addressing the colored people I have invariably spoken to them upon the subject of Temperance, and earnestly advised them against the use of intoxicating drinks. They seemed [..] a [...] to warmly appreciate the good advice; but I apprehend there will be very little success in organizing Temperance Societies among them for some time to come.
Very Respectfully
Your obt. servant
Ira Ayer, Jr.
[...]

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-671101 Source	1-Nov-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Have not heard of any freedmen discharged due to the maner in which they voted on 22 October

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office A. S. A. C.
2^nd Div. 3^rd Sub. Dist. Ashland, Va.
Nov. 1^st 1867

Lieut. P. R. Hambrick
A. S. A. Commissioner
3^d Dist. Richmond, Va.

Lieutenant:
In reply to Circular Letter of the 30^th ultimo from the Head Qrs. of the Asst. Commissioner, Dist. Virginia. I have the honor to state that I have made frequent inquiry of different parties from various sections of the County, since the Election of the 22^nd Oct. and have heard of no cases where laborers have been discharged from the service of their employers because of the manner in which they voted.

Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Col & Asst. Supt.

Note:
This was a very important election. It was the first election the freedmen could vote in and it was for the Virginia Constitutional Convention. This convention was to determine what the political future of the state would be. Each county elected one or more representatives to this convention and in each county about 98% of the whites voted for one candidate and about 98% of the blacks voted for the other. In the case of Hanover County, Ira's father-in-law William James was was elected by 7 whites and 1460 blacks. The other two candidates received 1053 votes from whites and 3 votes from blacks. Of Williams 7 white votes, 5 probably came from William, his three sons and Ira.
There are two implications of this vote. First, the two races were extremely polarized. Second, the blacks were not intimidated. They voted the way the believed without fear and according to Ira's report, they didn't receive any significant retribution.
These were good times for blacks in the South politically. They obviously had more political power than ever before, but for the few short years of Reconstruction they had more political power than any time after that until the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-671130 Source	30-Nov-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	There are no freedmen able to work who can't find work

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57v108-139 Source	21-Dec-67	Letter, Press Copy	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Ira reports that transferring criminal prosecution of colored people back to civil court is not working well. He cites a couple examples.

[...]
2^nd Div. 3^d Sub Dist Ashland, Va.
Dec. [21], 1867
Lieut. P. R. Hambrick
L. A. C. 3^d Sub District
Richmond, Va.
Lieutenant
In compliance with the provisions of [Pas.] 6, Circular No. 10 Bureau R. F. A. L. Office H. Richmond, Va. March 12^th/66, I have the honor to state that the order restoring to the civil authorities jurisdiction in criminal cases over colored persons has not resulted favorably with respect to the interests of the latter during the previous month.
At the November term of the County Court of Hanover a young man was arraigned and tried upon the charge of having attempted to commit a rape upon a young and respectable colored woman name [R. Clyabeth Tisby].
The evidence was in my judgment conclusive being supported by [.........] character of the account.
The judgment in a verdict of Not Guilty.
This circumstance reported to the Sub-Dist. Commander with the recommendation that a new trial be had before a Military Commission.
Some time in August last a man named [Antny] Tillman (col'd) and his wife were brought before Justice John G. Lampkins, of this County upon the charge of stealing a watch.
The examination showed that one Barnett Meredith, cousin of Tillman's wife, had some time before placed a watch in her charge with the privilege of using the same until called for, and that while thus in her possession, it was lost or suddenly disappeared. The parties [...] and in default of bail were committed for further trial.
[..ving] had my attention called to the fact that even if the parties had sold or otherwise disposed of the watch while thus in their possession the act would not constitute Larceny, but simply a "Breach of Trust" which is not an indictable offence. I was satisfied that they were unlawfully confined and at once ordered [...] ]reprosing] the case in [...] [.......]
[.........] colored people in the administration of law. They have not been treated with impartiality and fairness and the law respecting their testimony has not been carried out in good faith.
Very Respectfully,
Your obt servant,
Ira Ayer, Jr.
[...]
A. S. A. Comm.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-671226 Source	26-Dec-67	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	The case of Elizabeth Hogg

Bureau R. F. and A. L. Office A. S. A. C.
2^nd Div. 3^rd Sub. Dist. Ashland, Va.
Dec. 26^th 1867

Lieut. P. R. Hambrick
A. S. A. Commissioner
3^d Dist. Richmond, Va.

Lieutenant:
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter with reference to the case of Elizabeth Hogg (col'd), in regard to which I submit the following statement.
When this case was first brought to my attention, I informed the complainant that under the existing orders, I had no authority to try the case until it had first been before the civil courts and requested her to notify me of their action as soon as determined.
This was the last that I have heard from her until Saturday last when she informed me that her case was to be tried, and requested me to attend which I did.
I then first learned that some time last Summer, the County Court had given judgment against the complainant to the amount of $250, which of course came under the provisions of the "Stay Law," and that the trial of Saturday was for the purpose of recovering the accrued interest on the same. Judgment being given for the interest due. I at once ordered the Constable holding the same to suspend all proceedings until further notice from this office and of this the complainant was well informed before going to Richmond. I at the same time requested the complainant to bring her testimony before me at once in order to do a full investigation of the case. Here the matter stood the day of the complainant went to Richmond.
Thinking that possibly an erroneous representation had been made. I have thought it proper to submit this statement of facts with a view of correcting any false impressions thereby created

Very Respectfully Your servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
Bvt. Col & Asst. Supt.

Note:
I haven't found any more on this case.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57v108-140 Source	27-Dec-67	Letter, Press Copy	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Monthly Report

Bureau R. F. A. L. Office A. S. A. C.
2^nd Div. 3^d Sub Dist Ashland, Va.
Dec. 28, 1867
Lieut. P. R. Hambrick
L. A. C. 3^d Sub District
Richmond, Va.
Lieutenant
In compliance [.....] Bureau R. F. A. L. [...] HQ, Richmond, Va. July 27^th 1866 I have the honor to submit the following report with reference to the condition of Bureau affairs in this Sub. Dist. during the present month.
While the feeling of enmity which [...] the part of the whites toward the coloreds [...] doubtless by the election seemed partially to abated at the time of my last [...] still compelled to believe that with [...] it is too deeply seated to be readily removed. The reasons are too apparent to [...] while the negro was the property of the white man [...] regarded it very tenderly. As long as there was a probability that he could be [...] obedient tool in the service of his [...] did not feel specially [.........]
Immediately after the election, to state a case in point, the colored people on a place in the lower end of the County known as [Broadneck] [Plantation] implored to me that the renter, Mr. [Thomast J. Monrow] had told them that they must all leave the place at the end of the year, that they had no business to vote as they did and should not remain. As he did not, however, give them any written notice or legal notice and as I thought the feeling would subside I allowed the matter to rest directing the parties to notify me if further steps were taken.
On the 22^nd of December one of the [...] on the place, who has rented it from a year [...] since the fall of Richmond, a very respectable [...] man, was giving [...] notice Dec. 22^nd 1867 [........]
It was also [.....] that they had understood that they that it was the intension of those having control to allow them to remain until Christmas and then to turn them out without warning and, of course without homes. As this note succeeded to confirm the truth of the report and as I was reliably informed that many others [.....] to leave at the end of the year [..] same time that the above written notice [...] served, I at once wrote a letter to Mr. [...] warning him against [...] criminal measures [...].
Didn't finish
Very Respectfully,
Your obt servant,
Ira Ayer, Jr.
[...]
A. S. A. Comm.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-680201 Source	1-Feb-68	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	List of all cases in January where employer refused to pay employee

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57lr-680501 Source	1-May-68	Letter	From: Berkeley Minor, Ashland, VA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Berkeley alerts Ira to a freedman, John Colly, who is living at Hanover C. H. (Court House or County Hospital?) who is making money but not supporting his family.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-680501 Source	1-May-68	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Case where employer will not pay employee in the month of April

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57lr-680506 Source	6-May-68	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, 3rd Subdistrict, VA	Ira alerts Hambrick on the John Colly case.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57lr-680508 Source	8-May-68	Letter	From: ?, Richmond, VA To: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Informing Ira of clothes for freedmen and women being sent from the district office.

Bureau Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands
Office of Chief Quartermaster and Disbursing Officer, District of Virginia,
Richmond, Va. 8 May 1868
Col. Ira Ayer, Jr.
   A. S. A. C.
      Ashland Va.
      Colonel
         I have shipped to your address on the 1^st instant
   2 Dresses
   2 Petticoats
   2 chemiese
   4 prs Shoes
   2 prs [Infly] Trousers
   2 prs Knit Jackets
      I have this day forwarded you some clothing Receipt Rolls. you will please forward them filled up as usual.
      Yours Respectfully
      Your Obedt. Servant
      [Geo. Z Weud]
      Capt [W. S. S. C. G. U.]

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57lr-680514 Source	14-May-68	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Capt. W. A Coutler, Richmond, VA	Ira asks for advice on a case (I believe the John Cully case).

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57lr-680519 Source	19-May-68	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, 3rd Subdistrict, VA	Ira apologizes for going over Hambrick's head on the John Colly case.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
outrage-30 Source	31-May-68	Outrage	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	A freedman was beaten by a white man. When the freedman went to court, the case was thrown out and court costs were placed on the freedman.

No. of case: 30. On whom committed: Freedman. White or colored: ---. By whom committed: Leroy Mallory. White or colored: white. Where: Hanover Co., Va. When: June 1868. By whom reported: Ira Ayer Jr. A. S. A. C. Character of the outrage and action in the case: Report under Cir. 10 for mo. ending May 31^st/68. Assault and battery on Freedman by Mallory. Case tried before two Magistrates, Wm. Carpenter and Dr. Rd. Berkley. Case dismissed and costs thrown on plaintiff. From evidence the decision was most unjust and in violation of law and evidence.

Sworn statement of plaintiff with names and addresses of witnesses sent to Military Commissioners.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-680729 Source	29-Jul-68	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Ira informs Hambrick that he got his commission 19 Jan 65 and mustered out 1 Jan 68 and was appointed Civilian Agent on 1 Jan 68. He was Military Commissioner for Hanover and King William counties and A. S. A Comm. Of the Bureau for Hanover, also President of Board of Registration for Hanover.

Bu R F & A L Office
SAC 2^nd Div 3^d Sub Dist
Ashland, Va. July 29^th/68
Liut. P. R. Hambrick S. A. C. 3^d Sub Dist. Va
Lieut.
In compliance with the provisions of C'r letter dated Bu R. F. A. L. office Chf Qr Do Dist of Va. Richmond Va. July 27^th 1868, I have the honor to submit the following report.
Date of commission in Vet Res Corps January 19^th 1865 with the rank of Captain and Bvt. Colonel.
Muster-out date of January 1^st 1868.
Appointed Civilian Agent of Bureau Jan'y 1^st 1868
At the time of Muster-out was serving as Military Commissioner for the Counties of Hanover and King William and A. S. A. Comm. of the Bureau for Hanover Co. - also President of the Board of Registration for Hanover.
As I understand my services as an officer of the Army were continuous.
Very Respectfully,
Your Obt. Servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
A. S. A. Comm.
I served three years in the 10^th Regt. P. R. V. C. from April 15^th/61 to June 14^th/64 previous to appmt in V. R. C. (as Capt, Major & Lt Col.(

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
outrage-54 Source	19-Aug-68	Outrage	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	While working for his former owner, a former slave got in an argument with him. The former owner want and go a hoe which he used to kill the former slave. The coroner said he died from the blow from the hoe, but that it was "without malice or premeditation".

No. of case: 54. On whom committed: John Lewis. White or colored: colored. By whom committed: Robert Doswell. White or colored: white. Where: Hanover Co., Va. When: Aug. 10, 1868. By whom reported: Ira Ayer Jr., A. S. A. C. Character of the outrage and action in the case: H. 220 R. F. & A. L. Va., 1868, dated Aug. 19^th, 1868. Reports murder of Lewis by Doswell. Lewis was an old family servant of the Doswell family and aged 65 or 70 years. It appears that Lewis gave some directions to some of hands working in the garden which young Doswell considered an assumption of authority and resented. After some words Doswell struck Lewis on back of head with a hoe from which he died almost instantly. A coroners inquest was called and brought a verdict that the deceased came to his death substantially as above stated, but that the deed was committed "without malice or premeditation." A preliminary trial was held before Justice J. A. Smith, who committed the accused to bail in the sum of $2000. Forwarded to Hd. Qrs. 1^st Mil. Dist. Aug. 22^nd, 1868 requesting arrest of Robert Doswell by the Military Authorities.

Referred from Hd. Qrs. 1^st Mil. Dist. Aug. 22/68 to Attorney Genl. Ste. of Va. to know if the offence is bailable. Returned to Mil. Head Qrs. by Atty. General stating that the offence in his opinion was bailable. Returned to Asst. Comr. Aug. 30, 1868 inviting attention to endorsement of Attorney General Ste. of Va. Filed.

Ira Ayer Jr., A. S. A. C. Reports under Cir. 6 for month ending Aug. 31, 1868. Reports further on Doswell case and encloses certified copy of verdict of coroner's jury by clerk of County Ct.

Ira Ayer Jr. A. S. A. C. H. 345 R. F. & A. L. Va., dated Dec. 11, 1868. Submits report in case of Robert Doswell giving evidence to show that Doswell was insane and upon which plea he was acquitted. Filed.

W. A. Coulter, A. A. A. Genl. LS 813, R. F. & A. L. Va., dated Dec. 17, 1868. Addresses Ira Ayer Jr. A. S. A. C. and calls for report of full names of Justices trying this case, and their disqualification, if any, under the 14^th amendment to the Constitution of the U. S.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-680831 Source	31-Jul-68	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Ira informs Hambrick that he was mustered out as Captain of Co "B" 9^th Regt V. R. C.

Bu R F A L office A. S. A. Comm
2nd Div. 3^d Sub Dist. Ashland, Va.
Aug 31^st 1868
Lieut P. R. Hambrick
S. A. C. 3^d Sub Dist. Va.
Lieu ant
Iin reply to your note of the 29^th inst, just recd. I have the honor to state that when mustered out of the service, I was Captain of Co. "B" 9^th Regt. V. R. C.
Very Respectfully,
Your Obt servt
Ira Ayer, Jr.
A. S. A Comm.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r167-680903 Source	3-Sep-68	Letter	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA	Ira reports on the murder of an ifant by its mother

Bu R. F. and A. L. Office A. S. A. C.
2^nd Div. 3^rd Sub. Dist. Ashland, Va.
Sept. 3^rd 1868

Lieut. P. R. Hambrick
S. A. C. 3^d Sub. Dist. Va.

Lieutenant:
Information has just reached this office of the murder on the 22^nd ultimo, of a colored infant by its mother, Angelina Robinson, who resides upon the plantation of E. A. Morris Esqr., in the upper end of this County. It is stated that the woman has for some time past been kept as the mistress of a white man named James Vaughan, who is working the place on shares and the reason alleged for the crime is that she was told by Vaughan that she must have no children upon the place - that he could not have it. It is further stated that she bore the child herself without assistance and immediately strangled it by tying a string around its throat concealing it under a pile of hay, where it was found soon afterwards by a fellow servant with whom she was living. From reasons not fully known no inquest was held over the body. It is stated, however, that after the child was found the mother confessed to the crime, and that Mr. Morris, who is a gentleman of high responsibility, was of the opinion that under the circumstances, no inquest was necessary. I understood that a preliminary examination will be had as soon as the condition of the woman will permit, and that Mr. Morris who is an able lawyer has undertaken to become her counsel.
This statement is forwarded as made to me, and I have no doubt as to its general correctness. I have, however, taken the necessary measures to ascertain more fully as to all the facts in the case, which I will submit as soon as obtained.

Very Respectfully
Your Abt servt.
Ira Ayer, Jr.
A. S. A. Commr

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57v108-680928-1 Source	28-Sep-68	Letter, Press Copy	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, 3rd Subdistrict, VA	Ira reports on the status on the Freedmen in Hanover County. The last two pages are unreadable.

   [Bn R. A. A.] office A. S. A. C 2^nd Div.
   3^d Sub. Dist. Ashland, Va. Sept 28^th1868
Lieut. P. R. Hambrick
   S. A. C. Sub Dist. Va.
         Lieutenant
   In compliance with the provisions of Cir. No. 6. Bur. R. F., A. L. Hd. Grs. A. S. Richmond, Va. January 27^th/66. I have the honor to submit the following report with reference to the condition of Bureau affairs in the Division.
      Public Sentiment
remains the same: There being no special manifestations either of friendly or hostile feelings between the classes.
      Labor
There is plenty to be had on reasonable terms, still no one accustomed to farming or chopping need be idle for want of employment.
      Education
The schools continue in interest and numbers. A night school at Ashland, Richard Foster, teacher is reported, which has not been hitherto the day school of Julia M. Caster, at the same place has been discontinued and she is now keeping a night school which is well attended. The other schools reported are usually prosperous, much interest is manifested among the col'd people in the cause of education - but little [report] the part of the whites. A building has been purchased and is being fitted up for school and church purposes, in the upper end the county, at a place called "Bethany Seats" with aid which they hope at the proper time to receive from the Bureau, they are expecting soon to complete it, and commence a school. There are ten or twelve other places in the County where col'd schools should be established. Account of $50.00 for each school would be required from the Bureau, to enable to inhabitants of the several locations to erect themselves a suitable building for school purposes. The whites would render little or no aid by way of money.
      [Aland] House and Jail
The former is composed of several cabins of [homes] logs with dirt floors and board windows. By the latter the inmates are effectively deprived of ... the cold season. Humanity demands that they should be exchanged for glass.
   The jail has recently been whitewashed - is well ventilated and in every way, in good repair. The ... treats them well, giving them a sufficiency of good and wholesome food. Some complaints have just reached me as to the treatment of the inmates of the above House (of which five are colored) by the steward which I have not yet had an opportunity to investigate. I shall do so at the earliest possible moment; and, if well founded, will make an immediate report of the same.
      Crime
Upon full investigation I find that the statement of the case of Infanticide by by one Angelina Robinson, reported from this office on the 3^d inst. was correct in all its particulars. As soon as her condition would permit, the unhappy mother was brought before Justices J. Along Smith and Thos. L Jones and the [esidence] of her guilt being conducive, she was committed for trial at the next term. John G. Page and E. L Morris, both lawyers of ability have undertaken her defense ... motives of sympathy arrising from ...ship
   On the 15^th inst. Jack Parker (col'd) was brought before H. L. Wingfield [] charged with felony in killing Jno C. McGhee, a white man on or about the 12^th of only last. The [instusp], E. P. Murphy, a policeman of Richmond, who arrested him, testified that the prisoner when first taken denied any knowledge of the affair, but afterwards confessed the commission of the deed. Parker has no money and no means of raising any; but will I think, succeed in obtaining council. Full particulars of his trial will be reported.
   On the 1^st inst. two col'dmen, John and Robt. Brown (col'd) were dismissed after a hearing before Justices Cross and Wingfield, charged with Larceny, the evidence being deemed insufficient, the parties losing property (col'd) being dissatisfied complained at this office and on the [..inst] of a full report of the facts was forwarded to the [lat apt] known for his information and action.
      Criminals
In addition to those above ...

Note:
The rest of the report is not readable.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
m1913r57v108-680928-2 Source	28-Sep-68	Letter, Press Copy	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA To: P. R. Hambrick, 3rd Subdistrict, VA	Ira reports on a horse thief.

Not done yet.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
outrage-78 Source	30-Sep-68	Outrage	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	Unprovoked knife attack on a colored man who had fought for the union army by a white man. It is believed that the military service was the reason for the attack. The sentence was 1 hour in jail and a $50 fine.

No. of case: 78. On whom committed: Anthony Pierce. White or colored: colored. By whom committed: Civ. authorities. White or colored: -----. Where: Hanover Co., Va. When: Sept. 1868. By whom reported: Ira Ayer Jr., A. S. A. C. Character of the outrage and action in this case: Report under Cir. 6 for mo. ending Sept. 30^th, 1868. Reports that James D. Benson (white) was sentenced to one hour in Jail and $50 fine for stabbing Pierce.

Jany. 1867. Ira Ayer Jr. Report under Cir. 6 for mo. ending Feb. 28, 1867. Reports stabbing of Anthony Pierce (colored) by James D. Benson (white). Wound about 3 inches long and 4 inches deep. Assault unprovoked. Pierce formerly belonged to the 1^st US C. C. which fact was known, and is believed to have been the cause of the assault. Filed.

Item Date Type Description Summary
m1913r168-681012
Source 12-Oct-68 Letter From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA
To: Lt. P. R. Hambrick, Richmond, VA School report

Not done yet.

Item Date Type Description Summary
m1913r168-681012
Source 12-Oct-68 Letter From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA Reports that there is only one public animal in the district and it's a horse

Not done yet.

Item Date Type Description Summary
outrage-87
Source -Nov-68 Outrage From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA After losing a fair and consensual fight between a white man and a black man in his employ, the white man shot the black man with a shot gun causing the black man to loose sight in one eye. Since the white man was "an ex-confederate soldier", a "Virginia Gentleman" and a "white man" and the other was a "nigger" the white man was sentenced to 12 hours in jail and a 1 cent fine.

No. of case: 87. On whom committed: Jacob Powell. White or colored: colored. By whom committed: Robert F. Rice. White or colored: white. Where: Hanover Co., Va. When: Nov. 23^rd, 1868. By whom reported: Ira Ayer Jr. A. S. A. C. Character of the outrage and action in this case: Reports under Cir. 6, Series 1866 for mo. end. Nov. 30/68. Reports that Rice shot two colored men, one on purpose the other accidentally, that he afterwards gave himself up, and was committed in default of bail for $500. Extract of report returned to Ira Ayer Jr. Dec. 3^rd, 1868 for the names of the colored men injured and a more explicit report of the within case.

Ira Ayer Jr., A. S. A. C. H. 346, R. F. & A. L. Va. 1868, dated Dec. 10/68. Reports fully on above case, and states that Rice was employed by Major Archer, that he went to the kitchen premises to eat his breakfast, that after eating he was sitting by the kitchen fire, preparing to smoke, when Jacob Powell, colored, entered and kneeling down between a col'd man & woman presently remarked in a jocular way that he could "knock down any man in the room." Rice got up, walked into middle of room and said "come out here" - after a few passes Powell knocked Rice against the wall, when the latter became enraged, seized an axe and drew it as if to strike Powell - here the other colored men interfered and begged Rice not to strike. Rice went out to a pile of bricks and took up one and threw it at Powell; he then went to a building where he procured a shot gun, which was loaded. Returning with this, he saw Powell standing in the door of the kitchen and immediately drew and fired at him. Several shot struck Powell, one in the eye destroying his sight - with this exception he has recovered. The other colored man was also hit, but not materially injured. After the shooting Rice went immediately and gave himself up to Dr. T. G. Lumpkins, J. P., stating that he had shot Powell intentionally &c. At the November term of the County Court that Grand Jury found a true bill against Rice for shooting Powell. At the trial the counsel for the defence appealed to the prejudices of the Jury-Rice was "an ex-confederate soldier," a "Virginia Gentleman," a "white man," that Powell was a "nigger" &c. The jury found Rice guilty of unlawful shooting and sentenced him to one cent fine and 12 hours confinement in the County jail.

W. A. Coulter, A. A. A. Genl. L. S. 813, R. F. & A. L., Va., dated Dec. 17, 1868. Addresses Ira Ayer Jr., A. S. A. C. and calls for a report of full names of Justices trying this case, and their disqualification, if any, under the 14^th Amendment to the Constitution of the U. S.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
outrage-86 Source	12-Dec-68	Outrage	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	An argument over rent for which there is no evidence listed that would indicate this was an outrage.

No. of case: 86. On whom committed: Robt. Winston. White or colored: colored. By whom committed: Civil authorities. White or colored: white. Where: Hanover Co., Va. When: Dec. 12^th, 1868. By whom reported: Ira Ayer Jr., A. S. A. C. Character of the outrage and action in this case: H. 33, R. F. & A. L., Va. 1868, dated Dec. 12^th, 1868. Reports that in January last, Winston rented a house and lot of Thos. Stanley at $30 per year - he also rented of the same person some land, he to pay 1/4 of crop and find one horse. A Mr. Mark Harlow had been renting some land from Stanley, occupying a house & lot, for which he paid no extra rent, each finding a horse and dividing the crop equally. After Winston had entered into the contract, Stanley sent him word by Harlow that if Winston was willing they would annul first contract, and he might cultivate the place on the same terms as Harlow. To this proposition Winston agreed & each found a horse & the crop was satisfactorily divided about December 1^st, 1868. Winston states that up to that time he understood he was to pay no extra rent for the house and that Stanley had never called on him for rent, altho by the first contract $15 was due the latter part of June. Stanley demanded rent and was refused. When asked why he charged rent he told Winston that it was because he had not made as large a crop as anticipated. Stanley brought suit for $15, which was given against Winston. The property of Winston has been attached by the Constable and he appeals to the Military for protection. Forwarded to Col. Chalfin, A. A. Genl. 1^st Mil. Dist., Dec. 17^th, 1868 requesting reference of the within to the proper Mil. Comr.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
outrage-89 Source	14-Dec-68	Outrage	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	The court refused to hear a case about a white man who stabbed a black man.

No. of case: 89. On whom committed: Jack Parker. White or colored: colored. By whom committed: Civil auth. White or colored: -----. Where: Hanover Co., Va. When: Nov. 1868. By whom reported: Ira Ayer Jr. A. S. A. C. Character of the outrage and action in this case: H. 349, R. F. & A. L. Va., dated Dec. 14^th, 1868. Civil authorities at November term of Court refused to find a true bill against Peter McGhee (white) for stabbing Parker. Gives particulars of case. Forwarded to Col. Chalfin A. A. Genl. 1^st Mil. Dist., Va., Dec. 23^rd, 1868.

Item	Date	Type	Description	Summary
outrage-90 Source	15-Dec-68	Outrage	From: Ira Ayer, Jr., Ashland, VA	A white man beat a black man over the head with a stick. No word on the outcome.

No. of case: 90. On whom committed: Andrew Jackson. White or colored: colored. By whom committed: Calvin Bullock. White or colored: white. Where: Hanover Co., Va. When: Dec. 1868. By whom reported: Ira Ayer Jr., A. S. A. C. Character of the outrage and action in this case: H. 350, R. F. & A. L., Va., dated Dec. 15^th, 1868. Reports beating of Jackson by Bullock over the head with a stick. Case has been referred to a Magistrate. Filed.

Last edited 12/24/2011

Ira Ayer, Jr. and the Freedmen's Bureau1866-1868Transcriptions

Ira Ayer, Jr. and the Freedmen's Bureau
1866-1868
Transcriptions