What part of VA do you think your family came from?

I tooK a look at census records:

MASON, REUBEN (1870 U.S. Census)
South Carolina , FAIRFIELD, WINNSBORO P O, Age 65, Male, Race: Black, Born: VA
Series: M593 Roll: 1496 Page: 79

The oldest child in household in this census is age 18 - and is listed as born SC. I see no trace of this family in 1860 census - which indicates that they were more than likely enslaved.

1880 Census Place: Township 9, Fairfield, South Carolina

Source: FHL Film 1255229 National Archives Film T9-1229 Page 210A

Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace
Silvanus MASON Self M M B 25 SC

Occ: Laborer Fa: VA Mo: VA
Mary MASON Wife F M B 20 SC

Occ: Laborer Fa: SC Mo: SC
Elizabeth MASON Dau F S B 4 SC

Fa: SC Mo: SC
Benjaman MASON Father M M B 70 VA

Occ: Laborer Fa: VA Mo: VA
Aldridge MASON Nephew M S B 12 SC

Occ: Laborer Fa: SC Mo:

Reuben Benjamin Mason's record indicates that both of his parents came from VA - no mention of NY. He is not listed as mulatto - though there are quite a few mulatto listings in Fairfield.

In 1860 census for Fairfield there are 33 free black families listed, and 27 free mulatto families. I do not see surname Mason.

You may want to rethink your research, unless you have other documentation that you haven't shared with us.

We are all happy to help you find your family, but it is important to note that family oral histories are not always verifiable.

Denise