From the Richmond Dispatch, 10/18/1861, p. 2, c. 4

Assault with an Axe. – George, a slave, the property of Capt. John H. Greanor, charged with making a violent assault, with an axe, upon Phebe, slave of Dr. Wellford, was arraigned before the Mayor yesterday. The evidence proved that George pursued the old woman, and not only hit her with the axe, but kicked her, inflicting severe injuries. His excuse for this brutal conduct was that Phebe had insulted the memory of his mother by applying to him a name that does not admit of repetition. After having sated his vengeance, he was captured by James Elmore and Tazewell Corr, and handed over to the police. The Mayor remanded the prisoner to be tried for felony before the Hustings Court in November next.

Page last updated on 01/15/2008