Hello Hollis,

Here is the post on Afrigeneas (Feb 2003) about free black craftsmen in NC that you mentioned. This listing contains the surnames for many of these NC men who were free prior to 1850.

http://www.afrigeneas.com/forum-books/index.cgi?md=read;id=537

Since this posting I have met and helped a PETTIFORD researcher with their genealogy and family history. And now on the listing I notice variations of that name as PETTYFORD & PETTIPHOR.

In addition we have found information on other NC originating families that settled in the Central Ohio counties of Champaign, Logan & Ross bringing their craftsmaking skills with them. They are ARTIS, BASS, BOWSER, DAY, GOSSETT, GUILDFORD, MUMFORD, SCOTT, STEWART, UNDERWOOD & WHITFIELD.

This thread is a good lesson on the need to review past discoveries and research materials for hidden treasures not known at those earlier times.

Thanks for pointing out the previous posting.

Art Thomas