Slaves of the Kelso Family in Erie County, Pennsylvania

Data supplied by Karen James

Charles and Fira Logan

• Fira was held for life. Charles fell under the Gradual Abolition Act.
• DEATH NOTICE
  CHARLES LOGAN died Feb., 1827, at 95 years of age. Logan was a servant of Col. Chambers during the Revolutionary War.
  (Note Charles Logan set Cummin's barn on fire accidentally with a lantern. A horse owned by Sheriff Carmack was lost in this fire.)
• The two had three sons:

  George - born 1810

  • Was sold to Rufus Reed for a hundred barrels of salt. George continued working for Reed after his 28th birthday. He became known as "Reed's George."
  • George Logan called "Reed's George" worked as a handyman, teamster, cattle-driver, hauled grain to distillery and whiskey back to the Reed store in Erie. George Logan is described as "almost gigantic in height and Herculean strength," "a friend to everybody - kind to all" (Russell Manuscript)

  Bristo - born 1821 (offical date)

  • Bristo was sold to John Cochran, of Millcreek Township, Erie County. After his term, Bristo moved to Erie and married.
    
  • MARRIAGE
    "On Thursday last by the Rev. Mr. Statge, Mr. Bristo Logan, to Miss Clarrissa Williams, both of Jerusalem."
    Source: The Erie Gazette, December 10, 1835
    
  • (Clarrissa Williams was also a slave in Erie. She was held by the Strong Vincent family.)
    "FOR SALE, the unexpired term of servitude of (Clarrissa Williams) a COLOURED WOMAN. She was raised in the county, is strictly honest and sober, and has about nine years to serve. Inquire at the Paper."
    Source: The Erie Gazette, May 31, 1827
    
  • Bristo Logan born in 1794(family date) was freed at the age of 37 years according to family records. Clarrissa Logan died in the Almshouse Feb. 24, 1880, after a two year stay. It was believed that she was 90 years of age at the time.
    
  • DEATH NOTICE
    "In the city on Friday evening the 11th last after a brief illness BRISTO LOGAN age 65 years. The deceased will be missed by various family circles of our city. He was useful in many respects and his services frequently brought for particular occasions. He was one of the best of his color and his death will be sincerely regretted."
    Source: The Erie Gazette, December 11, 1859

  Peter- birth date unknown -

  • Peter lived with the Kelso family until his term was up. He then moved into Mercer County and nothing is known of him.

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This page was updated on April 26, 2005.