Samuel Jackson

Samuel Jackson, colored, familiarly known as "Possum Jack" died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Susan Jones of Mt. Carbon, Friday night.  It is claimed that he was 103 years of age.  It is not definitely known just how old he was as his memory often failed him and he would get dates mixed but without all probability he was over a century old anyway.

"Possum Jack" was a familiar figure in this county many years.  He at one time possessed a white horse and they were inseparable companions until its death.  He was of religious bent and happy disposition, always going around with a song on his lips.

He was hale and hearty for one of his age and he was able to provide for himself by odd jobs and by donations from friends both white and black.

He leaves a daughter, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.  Was buried Sunday in Tower Grove Cemetery, Murphysboro.

Source:  The Daily Free Press, Carbondale, Illinois, Monday, December 22, 1913

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