I'm interested in Oglethorpe Co., GA, specifically in the Echols surname (census district of Maxeys PO in 1860). Joseph E. Echols, a white planter/minister(!) owned as many as 150+ slaves during the 1830-1860 decades (according to federal census slave schedules). His name was passed down through family oral history as the owner of my ancestor Nicey Echols Austin (b. Abt 1850 in GA, d. 1934 in GA) who apparently took her maiden name Echols from this family after emancipation. Since Nicey was a mulatto and a house slave, there is also a possibility Joseph Echols was her father. Regardless, I'm hoping any information about Joseph Echols (family history, wills, obituaries, etc.) might shed some light on the beginnings of Nicey Echols.

If you have information or access to Oglethorpe Co. information let's talk! Even if you don't, I'd be happy to discuss current and potential research efforts. Thanks.

Jacques