Master Builder
"During the time period from 1832 until 1842 Horace honed his skills as a builder by constructing five major bridges major bridges (Columbus twice, West Point, Irwinton [Eufaula], and Florence) over the Chattahoochee River, a large and a small courthouse, warehouses in Apalachicola, a breakwater, and probably numerous houses...When Godwin's level of activity declined after 1842, Horace was eager to work in a larger geographical area. From 1843 until 1845, in partnership with Robert Jemison Jr., this slave applied his skills to projects northeast of the Mississippi. From the late summer of 1843 through December 1845, while John Godwin stayed in Girard, Horace King worked as his own boss, raising two major bridges at Columbus, Mississippi, and Wetumpka, Alabama..." (Lupold, John S. and French, Jr., Thomas L. Bridging Deep South Waters, 2004). |
"At the same time he gained a public reputation as being an excellent bridge engineer and contractor." Lupold, John S. and French, Jr., Thomas L. Bridging Deep south Waters, 2004. |
Horace King was mentioned often in newspapers of his day for his engineering talent, which was rare and remarkable for a slave. "He was a Mason. This gave him respect from all skilled craftsmen, not just people of color." (Cyriaque, Jeanne. Personal Interview. 8 January 2014).
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