Shelton Descendants Historical Society

The first written record observed regarding the existence of our ancestor Hardy Shelton, a formerly enslaved man, occurs during the Reconstruction Era (1863-1877) with the appearance of his name in the Returns of Qualified Voters and Reconstruction Oath Books, 1867-1869. On August 5, 1867, Hardy took an oath and made his mark of an X in the oath book to secure his right to register to vote. There is no evidence that he was ever permitted to vote. Hardy is listed as registered in Precinct 1120, County of Floyd, 42nd election district. According to the Map of Militia Districts of Floyd County, in 1866, Precinct Number 1120 was known as Popskull, and by 1880 was known as Flatwoods, and by 1950 became known as Mount Alto. 

 

The August 1870 census record of the North Carolina District - 855, indicate Hardy’s age as 52, suggesting that he was born circa (about) 1818 in Georgia. He works on a farm along with daughters Lucy, 19, Frances 17, and Mary 9, and son, Aaron 11. Later census records indicate Hardy was born in North Carolina. The 1870 census indicates that Hardy can read, but not write; he resides with his wife Mary, 38, and nine children. Mary, keeps house, and cares for the children not working the farm.

           

There is no known photograph of Hardy. To date, information regarding Hardy’s parents names, possibly his true name, and their origin has not been located. The 1880 census indicates his parents were born in North Carolina. Hardy dies circa 1892 at age 73/74. His burial place is not documented but is presumed to be the Shelton Family Cemetery in an unmarked grave.