Martha P. Powell, wife of Sanford Powell, and her children and son-in-law petition for an order authorizing the sale of the property in their trust estate. They represent that, in 1849, Sanford Powell conveyed four slaves, a plantation, and various other property to William D. Watts by deed of trust. Watts was to hold the property for the use and benefit of Mrs. Powell and her children, and to apply the profits thereof for the support of the family and education of the children. The petitioners contend that, although Watts has “served them faithfully,” the property is in a “wasting condition” owing to Powell’s “interference and arrogance.” Powell abuses his slaves and his family, and he has driven off his overseer. Furthermore, he sells the products of the crops and keeps the proceeds. The petitioners believe that it has become necessary to sell the property for its “protection and preservation” and to put the profits to interest. They therefore pray that William D. Watts, their trustee, be directed to answer the premises of their suit and that an order issue authorizing the sale of the property. The related answer from William Watts reveals that Sanford had assaulted the plantation overseer.
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Repository: South Carolina Department of Archives and History, Columbia, South Carolina
